Bacon-wrapped shrimp are a tasty treat that mixes the yummy flavors of crispy bacon and juicy shrimp. They make a great appetizer for any gathering!
I can’t resist these little bites! They’re so easy to make, and you can whip them up while dancing in the kitchen. Best served with a dipping sauce, of course! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe since they pair well with bacon. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, don’t hesitate to use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them fully before cooking.
Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon works best. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can substitute, but keep in mind it won’t get as crispy as pork bacon.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add great flavor! If you want a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Feel free to reduce the salt if you are watching your sodium intake.
Olive oil: This helps the spices stick and adds flavor. You can swap it out for melted butter or another cooking oil if needed.
How Can I Ensure My Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Are Crispy?
The key to crispy bacon on shrimp is partly in the cooking technique. Using a wire rack allows the fat from the bacon to drip off, making it crispier. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat your oven fully! A hot oven helps cook the bacon quickly.
- Line the baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, and don’t skip on the rack if you have it!
- Keep watch during the last few minutes; cooking times can vary based on your oven and bacon thickness.
Lastly, if you’re aiming for extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the shrimp for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just watch closely to prevent burning!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to have delicious bacon-wrapped shrimp ready to serve. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take a baking sheet and line it with foil or parchment paper. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet for the best crispiness.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, mix together garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Then, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spice mixture. Yum!
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one shrimp and grab a half slice of bacon. Start wrapping it around the shrimp at the tail and spiral it up towards the head. If you like, you can secure the bacon with a toothpick so it doesn’t fall off during cooking.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the wire rack (or directly on the lined baking sheet if you don’t have a rack). Make sure they’re spaced out a bit; this helps them cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the shrimp from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a splash of color and fresh taste.
7. Dipping Time!
Serve your bacon-wrapped shrimp warm with your favorite dipping sauces like spicy mayo, cocktail sauce, or garlic aioli. Get ready to enjoy some delicious bites!
Enjoy Your Crispy, Flavorful Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to fully thaw them first, ideally overnight in the fridge, or for a quicker method, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Should I Do If the Bacon Isn’t Crispy Enough?
If your bacon isn’t crispy after the baking time, you can switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as they can crisp up quickly under the broiler!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or air fryer to help restore the crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped shrimp a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven for more even cooking.
