Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that blends smoky, crispy bacon with succulent shrimp? Look no further than bacon-wrapped Shrimp! This irresistible recipe transforms tender shrimp into a mouthwatering delight by wrapping them in savory bacon. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a special treat, these bacon-covered bites are sure to impress your guests with their delectable combination of flavors and textures.

With a straightforward preparation process and versatile cooking methods, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or air frying, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy bacon and juicy shrimp every time. Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet indulgent dish that’s bound to become a favorite!

Ingredients Needed for Bacon-Covered Shrimp

1. Shrimp:
   • Quantity: 1 pound (450 grams)
   • Type: Large or jumbo, peeled and deveined
2. Bacon:
   • Quantity: 12-16 slices
   • Type: Regular or thinly sliced
3. Olive Oil or Cooking Spray:
   • Quantity: 1-2 tablespoons
   • Purpose: For greasing the baking sheet or air fryer basket
4. Salt:
   • Quantity: 1/2 teaspoon
   • Purpose: To season the shrimp
5. Black Pepper:
   • Quantity: 1/4 teaspoon
   • Purpose: To season the shrimp
6. Garlic Powder (Optional):
   • Quantity: 1/2 teaspoon
   • Purpose: For added flavor
7. Paprika (Optional):
   • Quantity: 1/4 teaspoon
   • Purpose: To add a hint of smokiness
8. Toothpicks:
   • Quantity: About 12-16
   • Purpose: To secure the bacon around the shrimp

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously savory and crispy appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any event!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon-Covered Shrimp

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
   • Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) if needed.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Clean: Rinse the shrimp under cold water.
   • Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the shrimp.
   • Season: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using) over the shrimp. Toss to coat evenly.

Coating the Shrimp

1. Cut the Bacon:
   • Slice: Cut the bacon slices in half so that each piece is about 4-5 inches long.
2. Wrap the Shrimp:
   • Wrap: Place one shrimp on a slice of bacon and wrap the bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick.
   • Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining shrimp and bacon.

Cooking Methods

1. Oven Method:
   • Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top if you have one.
   • Arrange the Shrimp: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
   • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. You may need to turn them halfway through for even crispiness.
2. Air Fryer Method:
   • Arrange the Shrimp: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
   • Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. Shake the basket or turn the shrimp halfway through for even cooking.
3. Grilling Method (Optional):
   • Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
   • Grill: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Serving Bacon-Covered Shrimp

1. Cool Slightly:
   • Rest: Let the bacon-wrapped shrimp cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the bacon set and makes them easier to handle.
2. Remove Toothpicks:
   • Serve: Carefully remove the toothpicks and arrange the shrimp on a serving platter.

Enjoy your delicious Bacon-Covered Shrimp as a tasty appetizer or a delightful snack!

Tips for Perfect Bacon-Covered Shrimp

1. Choose the Right Shrimp:
   • Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp to ensure a good balance of shrimp and bacon. Smaller shrimp may cook too quickly or get overwhelmed by the bacon.
2. Dry the Shrimp Thoroughly:
   • Why: Excess moisture can cause the bacon to become soggy. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning and wrapping.
3. Pre-Cook the Bacon (Optional):
   • Method: For extra crispy bacon, you can partially cook the bacon before wrapping it around the shrimp. Microwave the bacon for 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly cooked but still flexible.
4. Wrap Tightly:
   • Technique: Make sure the bacon is wrapped snugly around the shrimp, and secure it with a toothpick. This helps keep the bacon in place and ensures even cooking.
5. Season Well:
   • Flavor: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Ensure the shrimp are well-seasoned before wrapping to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
6. Use a Wire Rack:
   • Benefit: If baking, place the shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the fat to drain away from the shrimp and helps the bacon crisp up evenly.
7. Avoid Overcrowding:
   • Spacing: Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp in a single layer with some space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy bacon.
8. Monitor Cooking Time:
   • Checking: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking. Cooking times can vary based on size and thickness, so check for crispy bacon and opaque, fully cooked shrimp.
9. Turn or Flip for Even Cooking:
   • Method: If using the oven or air fryer, turn the shrimp halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
10. Serve Immediately:
    • Texture: Bacon-wrapped shrimp are best enjoyed hot and fresh. They may lose their crispiness if left to sit for too long, so serve them right after cooking.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful bacon-covered shrimp that are sure to be a hit at any event!

Serving Suggestions for Bacon-Covered Shrimp

1. As an Appetizer:
   • Platter: Serve the bacon-covered shrimp on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
2. With Dipping Sauces:
   • Pairings: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. These add extra flavor and complement the shrimp and bacon.
3. On a Charcuterie Board:
   • Incorporation: Include bacon-covered shrimp on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, cured meats, olives, and fresh vegetables. They add a savory touch to the spread.
4. With a Fresh Salad:
   • Complement: Pair the shrimp with a light salad such as a mixed greens salad or a Caesar salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the bacon.
5. As a Main Course:
   • Serving: Serve the bacon-covered shrimp over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
6. On a Bed of Lettuce:
   • Presentation: Arrange the shrimp on a bed of lettuce or spinach. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a light and elegant presentation.
7. With Grilled Vegetables:
   • Accompaniment: Pair with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. The smoky flavors complement the bacon-wrapped shrimp beautifully.
8. For a Cocktail Party:
   • Arrangement: Serve bacon-covered shrimp with a selection of cocktails or mocktails. The rich, savory flavors pair well with a variety of beverages.
9. As part of a Buffet:
   • Setup: Include bacon-covered shrimp as part of a buffet spread, allowing guests to help themselves and enjoy alongside other dishes.
10. Garnished with Fresh Herbs:
    • Finishing Touch: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving to add a touch of color and freshness to the dish.

These serving suggestions will help you present your bacon-covered shrimp in a variety of appealing and delicious ways, making them the star of any occasion!

Variations and Add-Ons for Bacon-Covered Shrimp

1. Cheese-Stuffed Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Add a small piece of cheese, like cheddar or cream cheese, inside the shrimp before wrapping.
   • Method: Place a small cube or dollop of cheese on the shrimp, then wrap with bacon and secure it with a toothpick. This adds a creamy, gooey center.
2. Spicy Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Sprinkle the shrimp with cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce before wrapping with bacon.
   • Method: Add a kick of heat by incorporating spicy seasonings or sauces, giving your shrimp a bold, spicy flavor.
3. Maple Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Brush the bacon with a mixture of maple syrup and a pinch of black pepper.
   • Method: Before wrapping the shrimp, lightly brush the bacon with maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.
4. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Sprinkle-grated Parmesan cheese and garlic powder over the shrimp before wrapping with bacon.
   • Method: This variation adds a rich, cheesy flavor and a hint of garlic to the crispy bacon.
5. Herb-Infused Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the seasoning mix.
   • Method: Mix the herbs with your seasonings before applying them to the shrimp for an aromatic, fresh twist.
6. BBQ Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Brush the bacon-wrapped shrimp with your favorite barbecue sauce.
   • Method: Apply barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a tangy, smoky glaze.
7. Citrus Zest Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Add a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest to the shrimp before wrapping with bacon.
   • Method: This adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the bacon and shrimp.
8. Sweet and Spicy Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Combine brown sugar with a pinch of chili flakes.
   • Method: Rub the bacon with the brown sugar and chili flakes mixture before wrapping it around the shrimp for a sweet and spicy kick.
9. Asian-Inspired Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
   • Ingredients: Brush with a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a touch of sesame oil.
   • Method: Before baking or grilling, brush the bacon with this glaze for an Asian flavor profile.
10. Stuffed Bacon-Covered Shrimp:
    • Ingredients: Fill the center of each shrimp with a mixture of breadcrumbs and herbs.
    • Method: Stuff the shrimp with the breadcrumb mixture before wrapping with bacon for an added crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

These variations and add-ons allow you to customize your bacon-covered shrimp to suit different tastes and occasions, making your appetizer even more delightful!

Bacon-Covered Shrimp is a delightful appetizer that combines the savory crunch of bacon with the tender, juicy flavors of shrimp. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different seasonings and add-ons to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a special meal, or simply looking for a tasty snack, these bacon-wrapped treats are sure to impress.

By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy bacon and succulent shrimp with every batch. Serve them as an appetizer, part of a buffet, or alongside your favorite sides for a memorable dish that everyone will love.

Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of Bacon-Covered Shrimp, and make your next gathering or meal extra special with this crowd-pleasing recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know when the bacon-covered shrimp are done?

The shrimp should be opaque and cooked through, while the bacon should be crispy and golden brown. For best results, check both the shrimp and bacon towards the end of the cooking time.

Can I make bacon-covered shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time. Wrap and secure the shrimp with bacon, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Bake or air fry just before serving.

Can I freeze bacon-covered shrimp?

Yes, you can freeze them. Arrange the uncooked, bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container. Cook from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Can I use a different type of bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon or other varieties. Keep in mind that different types of bacon may affect the cooking time and texture. Adjust accordingly.

How can I make sure the bacon stays crispy?

Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the shrimp and not overlapping too much. Using a wire rack during baking or air frying can also help the bacon stay crisp by allowing fat to drain away.

What should I do if the bacon isn’t cooking evenly?

If you notice uneven cooking, try flipping the shrimp halfway through or rotating the baking sheet or air fryer basket for more even heat distribution.

Can I cook bacon-covered shrimp on the grill?

Yes, grilling is an option. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then cook the bacon-wrapped shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-10 minutes, or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?

It’s best to use raw bacon for optimal crispiness. Pre-cooked bacon might not become as crispy and may not adhere well to the shrimp.

How do I remove the toothpicks after cooking?

Carefully remove the toothpicks from the cooked shrimp using tongs or a fork. If the toothpicks are difficult to remove, let the shrimp cool slightly to make the process easier.

Mason Williams

A seasoned chef with over 10 years of experience in New York. I passionately share my journey and healthy, flavorful recipes online.