Our Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp recipe is a true testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are paired with a touch of creativity 🍤✨. The key to its mouth-watering magic lies in the quality of the bacon; a slightly thick cut that becomes wonderfully crispy, embracing the tender, juicy shrimp in a smoky hug. The contrast in textures and flavors is what makes this dish so special. A sprinkle of chili powder or a brush of maple syrup before baking can add an extra layer of flavor, making each bite a delightful surprise. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in, it's a dish that's as fun to make as it is to eat. The succulence of shrimp paired with the crisp, rich bacon brings a sense of indulgence, making every occasion feel a little more luxurious. 🌟
Looking for an irresistible appetizer that will leave your guests begging for more? Look no further than our Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp recipe! Combining the savory flavor of bacon with the succulent taste of shrimp, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, these bacon-wrapped shrimp are sure to impress. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound center-cut bacon: Choose center-cut bacon for its perfect balance of meat and fat. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it may not crisp up properly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps the seasoning adhere to the shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Provides a touch of sweetness to balance the smoky and savory flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the shrimp with a subtle garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy note that complements the bacon.
- 1 pound raw extra-jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 per pound): Thawed if frozen, peeled and deveined but tails left on for a beautiful presentation.
- Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon around the shrimp.
- Lemon wedges or dipping sauce: Optional but highly recommended for serving. Lemon butter sauce pairs perfectly with these shrimp.
These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will make this dish a favorite at any gathering. The balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, along with the crisp texture of the bacon and the tender shrimp, make for an unforgettable appetizer.
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to prepare and cook your delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by arranging a rack in the middle of your oven and preheat it to 400℉. This temperature is ideal for rendering the bacon fat while starting to brown it without overcooking the shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Cut the 1 pound of center-cut bacon lengthwise into thin strips, creating two strips per slice. You should have one strip for each shrimp. Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Step 3: Partially Cook the Bacon
Bake the bacon in the oven for 6 to 8 minutes until it has rendered most of its fat but is still pliable and just starting to brown. This step ensures the bacon will be crisp without overcooking the shrimp later.
Step 4: Season the Shrimp
While the bacon is cooking, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika in a medium bowl. Stir well to mix. Add the 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Step 5: Drain the Bacon
Once the bacon is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Pour off any remaining grease from the baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Wrap the Shrimp
Turn your oven to broil. Take each shrimp and wrap a bacon strip around it, starting at the thick end and wrapping towards the tail. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Place the wrapped shrimp seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 7: Broil the Shrimp
Broil the shrimp, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, for 4 to 6 minutes. The bacon should be slightly crisp and the shrimp cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 8: Serve
Once done, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon and a dipping sauce, such as lemon butter sauce, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Now that your Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is perfectly cooked, it's time to serve and enjoy this delectable appetizer. Here are some tips for serving and storing your shrimp to ensure they remain delicious.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve your bacon-wrapped shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce such as lemon butter or a spicy aioli. The fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the smoky bacon and tender shrimp. These shrimp make a great appetizer for parties, but they can also be served as a main course with a side salad or vegetable dish.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350℉ oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bacon soggy.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the bacon and wrap the shrimp ahead of time. Simply cook the bacon, wrap it around the shrimp, and refrigerate them in an airtight container overnight. When you're ready to cook, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and proceed with broiling as directed.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can add a slice of jalapeño or a small piece of pineapple under the bacon for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, brush the shrimp with a bit of barbecue sauce before wrapping them in bacon for a smoky-sweet twist.
Air Fryer Method
This recipe can also be adapted for the air fryer. After partially cooking the bacon in the oven, wrap the shrimp and cook them in the air fryer at 400℉ for 6 to 8 minutes. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they crisp up properly.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp contains approximately 284 calories, 18g of carbohydrates, 12g of protein, and 18g of fat. It's a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for special