Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Bacon-wrapped shrimp transforms basic ingredients into an addictive appetizer that combines crispy, salty bacon with tender, succulent shrimp. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant, making it my go-to choice whether I'm hosting an intimate dinner party or contributing to a bigger gathering. The magic lies in how the bacon renders its smoky flavor into the shrimp while keeping them perfectly moist.

Last weekend, I made these for a family gathering and my nephew, who usually avoids seafood, couldn't stop reaching for more. The empty platter spoke volumes about how crowd-pleasing this appetizer truly is.

Essential Ingredients

• Center-cut bacon: Regular-cut bacon works better than thick-cut, crisping up perfectly while keeping the shrimp tender.
• Extra-jumbo shrimp (16-20 count): Larger shrimp prevent overcooking and provide the ideal meat-to-bacon ratio.
• Honey: Just a touch brings out the shrimp's natural sweetness and helps the bacon caramelize beautifully.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the bacon's natural flavor.
• Fresh lemon: The bright acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable.

Detailed Instructions

Start with the bacon prep:

Cut each bacon slice lengthwise to create perfect-sized strips. Par-cook at 400°F for exactly 6 minutes - this ensures the bacon will crisp up fully with the shrimp. Pat gently with paper towels to remove excess grease while keeping bacon pliable.

Season the shrimp:

Create a paste with olive oil, honey, and seasonings. Coat each shrimp thoroughly, paying special attention to both sides. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Master the wrapping technique:

Start at the thicker end of the shrimp. Wrap bacon slightly overlapping, keeping it snug but not too tight. Secure with a toothpick through the thickest part where bacon ends meet.

Perfect the cooking method:

Arrange shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each. Broil 4-6 minutes, rotating halfway through. Watch carefully in the final minutes to achieve perfect crispiness.

Create the Perfect Presentation

The key to an impressive appetizer lies not just in taste but in presentation. Arrange your bacon-wrapped shrimp in a circular pattern on a serving platter, garnishing with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Place a small bowl of dipping sauce in the center - I love offering both classic cocktail sauce and a garlic aioli for variety.

The Art of Timing

Mastering the timing of this dish comes with experience. I've found that par-cooking the bacon and assembling the shrimp can be done up to 4 hours ahead, kept covered in the refrigerator. This advance prep makes entertaining so much smoother.

Pairing Suggestions

These shrimp pair beautifully with crisp white wines or light beers. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling citrus mocktail complements the flavors perfectly while cleansing the palate.

My family particularly loves the smoky-sweet combination in this recipe. My mother, who taught me the importance of quality ingredients, always says the key is using fresh shrimp - she can taste the difference immediately.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning.
• If bacon starts to brown too quickly, lower the oven rack away from the broiler.
• For extra flavor, brush with melted butter mixed with garlic in the last minute of cooking.

After years of making this recipe, I've come to appreciate how it brings people together. There's something special about watching guests' faces light up with the first bite, and how conversations flow easily as they reach for seconds. This recipe isn't just about the food - it's about creating moments of joy around the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why do you partially cook the bacon first?

Pre-cooking ensures the bacon gets crispy without overcooking the shrimp, since shrimp cook much faster than raw bacon.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can wrap the shrimp in bacon up to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate, but broil just before serving for best results.

→ Why use center-cut bacon?

Center-cut bacon is leaner and more uniform in size, making it easier to wrap around shrimp and cook evenly.

→ What's the best dipping sauce?

Lemon butter sauce works great, but remoulade, cocktail sauce, or honey mustard are also delicious options.

→ Can I grill these instead of broiling?

Yes, grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning.