Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a delightful combination of juicy, tender shrimp wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon that creates a flavor explosion with every bite. This dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it an irresistible appetizer or main course for any occasion. The sweet and savory notes of the shrimp and bacon meld perfectly, while the crispy texture of the bacon adds a satisfying crunch that elevates this dish to new heights.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of both worlds: the savory, smoky flavor of bacon and the delicate sweetness of shrimp. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe fits well into a low-carb or keto diet, satisfying your cravings without the guilt. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it a great option for any gathering.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large, deveined shrimp for the best presentation and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Use Thin Bacon: Regular-cut bacon will work, but thin-cut bacon crisps up faster and wraps around the shrimp more easily.
- Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is preheated allows the bacon to cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Skewers for Easy Handling: If you’re making a large batch, consider using skewers to hold the shrimp and bacon together, making it easier to flip while cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; be cautious not to overdo it. They should be removed from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Not Securing the Bacon: If the bacon isn’t tightly wrapped, it may unravel while cooking. Use toothpicks or skewers to secure the bacon in place.
- Skipping the Marinade: A simple marinade can enhance the flavor significantly, so don’t skip this step.
- Ignoring the Cooking Method: Baking is the recommended method for evenly cooked bacon and shrimp. Avoid frying, as it may lead to uneven cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prepare the shrimp and wrap them in bacon a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. They can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead of time, just ensure they are covered tightly to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, which allows them to absorb more flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of spicy honey before baking for a kick of heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into your marinade for added flavor.
- Different Bacon: Try using turkey bacon or prosciutto for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- Grill It: Instead of baking, you can grill the bacon-wrapped shrimp for a smoky, charred flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your bacon-wrapped shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with a dipping sauce such as spicy aioli, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy cocktail sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a light salad or grilled vegetables.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of bacon-wrapped shrimp, consider serving a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing cocktail such as a mojito. For side dishes, a zesty coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad works beautifully. A light dessert, like lemon sorbet, can cleanse the palate after this savory dish.
How to Store
Store leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For reheating, bake them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional for easier cleanup)
- Toothpicks or skewers (optional)
- Mixing bowl for marinating
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free option, this recipe is already free of dairy. To make it gluten-free, ensure your marinade ingredients are gluten-free. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based bacon alternatives, though ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly as they may cook differently.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, you might want to add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a vibrant flavor. In the fall, consider incorporating spices like smoked paprika or even a hint of maple syrup in the marinade for a seasonal twist.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this dish is around $15 for about 4 servings, depending on current market prices for shrimp and bacon. If you’re on a budget, consider substituting with smaller shrimp or using less expensive cuts of bacon.
Kitchen Hacks
- Easy Peeling: To quickly peel shrimp, use a kitchen shears to cut along the back instead of wrestling with your fingers.
- Bacon Wrapping: For a more uniform look, cut the bacon slices in half before wrapping, ensuring they fit snugly around each shrimp.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before wrapping them in bacon.
- What if my bacon isn’t crispy? If the bacon isn’t crispy by the time the shrimp are cooked, you can broil them for a couple of minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Can I make this recipe on the grill? Absolutely! Just preheat your grill and cook them over direct heat until the bacon is crispy.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a delightful combination of juicy, tender shrimp wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon that creates a flavor explosion with every bite. This dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it an irresistible appetizer or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or skewers (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick or skewer if needed.
- Place the wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 307Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 262mgSodium 1537mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 34g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience that combines unique flavors and textures in a delightful way. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simplicity and deliciousness, you’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and embrace the joy of sharing this delectable dish with others!
