If you’re looking for a delicious and simple appetizer that will impress your guests, look no further than easy bacon wrapped shrimp. This dish combines the flavors of salty bacon and tender shrimp to create a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for any occasion.
To make easy bacon wrapped shrimp, start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Next, wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Place the bacon wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is cooked through.
Once the bacon wrapped shrimp is done, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether you prefer a tangy cocktail sauce or a spicy aioli, these shrimp are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. They are the perfect combination of savory and succulent, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used for this recipe. It is recommended to use large or jumbo shrimp, as they are easier to wrap with bacon.
- Bacon: Thinly sliced bacon works best for wrapping around the shrimp. You can use regular or smoked bacon, depending on your preference.
- Seasonings: You can add a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor of the bacon wrapped shrimp. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Marinade: While not necessary, marinating the shrimp before wrapping it in bacon can add more flavor. You can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt.
- Wooden Skewers: Wooden skewers are used to hold the bacon wrapped shrimp together while cooking. Soak the skewers in water for about 15-30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning during cooking.
Once you have gathered all of the ingredients, you can start preparing the bacon wrapped shrimp. Make sure to clean and devein the shrimp if necessary before marinating and wrapping them. Secure the bacon with a skewer and cook the shrimp in a preheated oven or on a grill until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is cooked through. Serve the bacon wrapped shrimp as an appetizer with a dipping sauce or as a main dish with a side of vegetables or rice.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on both sides of each shrimp.
- Cut each slice of bacon in half.
- Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon and secure with a wooden skewer.
- Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe can be easily adjusted to fit your taste preferences. You can add a touch of spice by sprinkling some cayenne pepper or chili powder on the shrimp before wrapping them in bacon. Alternatively, you can add some freshness by squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the cooked shrimp. Serve your bacon-wrapped shrimp with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as a spicy mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce.
Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Serving Size |
---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings |
Tips and Variations for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Tips:
- Choose large shrimp: Opt for larger shrimp as they will be easier to wrap with bacon, and they will have a meatier texture after cooking.
- Cook bacon partially: Partially cook the bacon before wrapping it around the shrimp. This will ensure that the bacon gets crispy without overcooking the shrimp.
- Season the shrimp: Before wrapping the shrimp in bacon, season them with your choice of spices and herbs. Popular options include garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme.
- Secure the bacon: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place while cooking. This will prevent it from unraveling and ensure that each shrimp is evenly cooked.
- Grill or bake: While the traditional method involves baking the bacon wrapped shrimp in the oven, you can also try grilling them for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking.
Variations:
There are endless variations you can experiment with when it comes to bacon wrapped shrimp. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Stuffed bacon wrapped shrimp: Fill the cavity of the shrimp with cheese, jalapenos, or cream cheese before wrapping them in bacon. This will add a delicious surprise in every bite.
- Marinated bacon wrapped shrimp: Before wrapping the shrimp in bacon, marinate them in a mixture of your favorite marinade ingredients. This will infuse the shrimp with extra flavor and tenderness.
- Sweet and spicy bacon wrapped shrimp: Brush the bacon wrapped shrimp with a glaze made of honey, soy sauce, and sriracha for a delicious combination of sweetness and spiciness.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique twist on this classic appetizer. Whether you choose to stick to the traditional recipe or try something new, bacon wrapped shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser!
Serving and Storage Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Serving Suggestions:
- Arrange the bacon wrapped shrimp on a platter or serving tray, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added pop of color.
- Serve the shrimp with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as a tangy cocktail sauce or a creamy garlic aioli.
- Consider serving the shrimp alongside other appetizers, like mini sliders or vegetable skewers, to create a well-rounded spread.
- For a more formal presentation, you can skewer the shrimp with toothpicks and arrange them in a tall glass or vase for an elegant and eye-catching display.
Storage Suggestions:
If you have any leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.
- Allow the bacon wrapped shrimp to cool completely before storing to avoid any condensation that can cause sogginess.
- Store the shrimp in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- If you have a large batch of shrimp to store, you can layer them between sheets of parchment or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- To reheat the shrimp, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
By following these serving and storage suggestions, you can ensure that your bacon wrapped shrimp is enjoyable from the moment it comes out of the oven to the last bite.