Bacon-wrapped shrimp are the perfect finger food for any gathering. With juicy shrimp hugged by crispy bacon, every bite is a tasty treat that will have everyone coming back for more!
I love how easy they are to make! Just wrap, secure with a toothpick, and pop them in the oven. They’re always a hit—just be warned, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are best, but you can use medium shrimp if that’s what you have on hand. Just watch the cooking time! For a twist, try using scallops instead.
Bacon: Regular-cut bacon gives a nice balance between crispy and chewy, but if you’re short on time, thin-cut bacon cooks faster. Turkey bacon is a lower-fat option but won’t be as crispy. You can even try prosciutto for something a bit different!
Olive Oil & Seasonings: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you can use melted butter for extra richness. Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika will work fine, or you can substitute with chili powder for a more robust taste.
How Do I Get Crispy Bacon on My Shrimp?
Achieving crispy bacon on your shrimp requires a few key steps:
- Make sure your shrimp are dry before wrapping them. Pat them with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Wrap the bacon snugly but don’t overwrap; it needs space to crisp up. Secure it tightly with a toothpick.
- Bake them on a lined baking sheet. The foil or parchment not only helps with clean-up but also allows any excess grease to drain away.
- If they’re not crisping up to your liking, use the broiler at the end, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
By following these tips, you’ll get that perfect crispy bacon that everyone loves!
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 20 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 10 slices bacon (regular or thin-cut), each slice cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. With a little patience and attention, you’re just 35 minutes away from a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the bacon will crisp up nicely while the shrimp cook. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well-coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
3. Wrap the Shrimp:
Now, take each shrimp and wrap it securely with a half slice of bacon. Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place, poking it through both the bacon and the shrimp to secure it tightly.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s some space between each piece. This will help them cook evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely on all sides and the shrimp get cooked perfectly.
6. Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want that extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
When done, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious bacon-wrapped shrimp warm as an appetizer or party snack. They are sure to be a hit! Enjoy every crispy, savory bite!
This recipe yields deliciously juicy shrimp wrapped in perfectly crisp bacon that looks just as good as it tastes! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw seafood is overnight in the refrigerator, or you can quickly submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Should I Do If the Bacon is Not Crispy?
If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try broiling the shrimp for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning!
Can I Make the Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and wrap them with bacon ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, ideally within 24 hours for best results.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to help retain crispiness instead of using a microwave.
