Bacon-wrapped shrimp are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! The juicy shrimp wrapped in crispy bacon create a flavor bomb that’s hard to resist.
These little bites are great for any gathering, and they disappear fast! I always keep extras because my friends can’t get enough of them! Just pop them in the oven and enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish as they hold up well against the bacon. If you can’t find large shrimp, medium or jumbo shrimp work too. For a twist, try using scallops instead!
Bacon: Regular bacon gives great flavor and crispiness, but turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option. Just note that it may not get as crispy as regular bacon!
Seasonings: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of cayenne for heat can work! Garlic powder is simple and effective, but fresh minced garlic is fantastic too if you like a stronger flavor.
How Do I Keep the Bacon Wrapped Perfectly Around the Shrimp?
Getting the bacon to wrap snugly can be tricky, but here’s how:
- Start wrapping from the thicker part of the shrimp and move towards the tail for a tighter fit.
- Secure each piece of bacon with a toothpick or skewer to hold its shape during cooking.
- Ensure the bacon pieces do not overlap. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy all around.
With these tips, your bacon-wrapped shrimp will turn out deliciously crispy and flavorful every time!
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Toothpicks or small wooden skewers
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll be ready to enjoy these delicious bites in about 35-40 minutes total! Perfect for an appetizer at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the bacon get crispy while the shrimp cooks through. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. The rack will let the heat circulate and keep the bacon crispy.
2. Seasoning the Shrimp:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning will add lots of flavor to your shrimp! Take your clean and deveined shrimp, and sprinkle the seasoning evenly over them, making sure to coat every side
3. Wrapping the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to wrap! Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, starting from the thicker end and working your way to the tail. Don’t worry if it doesn’t completely cover the shrimp; it will shrink as it cooks. Secure the bacon with a toothpick or skewer to keep it in place!
4. Arranging for Baking:
Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. This way, they’ll cook evenly and get nice and crispy all around!
5. Baking the Shrimp:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the bacon to be golden and crispy and the shrimp to be fully cooked. If you love extra crispiness, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Serving the Delicious Bites:
Once out of the oven, transfer your bacon-wrapped shrimp to a serving platter. You can garnish them with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you’d like, serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp!
7. Enjoying Them!
Dig in and enjoy your crispy, juicy bacon-wrapped shrimp! They make a fantastic appetizer or a fun snack for any occasion. Feel free to serve them with a dipping sauce like honey mustard glaze, cocktail sauce, or spicy mayo to enhance the flavors!
Enjoy your cooking and the tasty results! Happy eating! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to fully thaw the shrimp first! Thaw them overnight in the fridge, or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Be sure to pat them dry to avoid excess moisture that can prevent the bacon from crisping up.
How Can I Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. You can also wrap the shrimp in a slice of spicy chorizo instead of bacon or serve it with a spicy dipping sauce to add some heat!
What Should I Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
These shrimp are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with fresh lemon wedges, a tangy dipping sauce, or alongside a crisp salad. For a heartier meal, pair them with rice or a creamy pasta!
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven to maintain crispiness, or use the microwave for a quicker method, although this may make the bacon less crispy.
