Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe: Quick and Flavorful Delight

Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a delicious and versatile seafood appetizer that combines the succulent flavors of shrimp with the smoky, savory taste of bacon. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a dinner party, holiday event, or simply a special treat on a weeknight. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a memorable dish that will have your guests raving for more.

First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients, which typically include fresh, tail-on shrimp, bacon, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and olive oil. You may also choose to add a variety of spices and herbs, such as garlic, paprika, or lemon juice, to elevate the flavors of your dish. No matter which variations you decide to add, the key to this scrumptious appetizer is using quality ingredients and ensuring the shrimp and bacon are cooked to perfection.

To make the dish, you’ll start by prepping the shrimp by peeling and deveining them, then tossing them in olive oil and seasonings. Meanwhile, partially cook the bacon to ensure it’s not undercooked once wrapped around the shrimp. Finally, assemble the appetizer by wrapping each shrimp with a piece of bacon and securing it with a toothpick before baking or broiling. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautifully presented and delectable bacon-wrapped shrimp appetizer that is sure to impress.

Supplies Needed

Tools

When preparing bacon-wrapped shrimp, it is important to gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here are the main items you’ll need:

• Oven or grill: You can choose to cook your bacon-wrapped shrimp in an oven or on a grill. Both methods will give the shrimp a delicious, smoky flavor, with the oven method typically being more accessible for most people. If using a grill, preheat it to medium heat.

• Baking sheet or foil: For the oven method, you will need a baking sheet preferably lined with aluminum foil for easier clean-up. If you prefer grilling, be sure to have non-stick grilling foil at hand to avoid the shrimp from sticking to the grill grates.

• Broiler (optional): Using a broiler can help to give the bacon-wrapped shrimp a crispy outer layer. If you’d like to use this method, preheat the broiler and follow your preferred bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe for cooking time and temperature.

• Air fryer (optional): An air fryer is another option for cooking bacon-wrapped shrimp quickly and efficiently, with less oil and fat. Follow your preferred recipe for cooking times and temperatures when using this method.

• Small bowl: You’ll need a small bowl for mixing marinade ingredients for your shrimp. This will provide the shrimp with extra flavor as it cooks.

• Toothpick or skewers: In order to keep the bacon in place while it cooks around the shrimp, you’ll need toothpicks or skewers. Secure the bacon around each shrimp before cooking to ensure a tight wrap.

Remember, using the right tools and equipment can significantly enhance the preparation and cooking process of your bacon-wrapped shrimp. Choose the method that works best for you, gather your supplies, and enjoy cooking a savory appetizer or main dish.

Preparation of Ingredients

Shrimp Preparation

Before you begin, make sure to select deveined shrimp for the dish, which makes the preparation process easier. Start by peeling the shrimp, leaving the tails on for easy handling. Next, place the shrimp in a large, shallow dish or bowl. To marinate the shrimp, combine ingredients such as sugar, lemon juice, oil, and seasonings in a separate bowl. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of marinade over the shrimp until they are well-coated. Allow the shrimp to rest in the marinade for 15 minutes so they can absorb the flavors.

Bacon Preparation

Meanwhile, prepare the bacon by cutting the strips in half crosswise. Preheat your oven to 425¬∞F and arrange the bacon on an oven-safe rack placed on a baking sheet. To achieve a crispy finish, partially cook the bacon for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon. Remember to keep an eye on the bacon while it’s in the oven to avoid overcooking. After the bacon has partially cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool.

Now that you have prepared both the shrimp and the bacon, carefully wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. The wrapped shrimp will be ready to cook using your preferred method, such as grilling or broiling. Remember to baste the shrimp with the remaining marinade while cooking to maintain moisture and enhance flavors. Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe!

Seasoning Method

Creating Dry Rub

For a truly delightful bacon wrapped shrimp recipe, creating a flavorful dry rub is essential. Start with a base of 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt if you prefer), then add 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for a bit of spice. Next, introduce some smoky flavors with 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. If you like a hint of sweetness, incorporate 1/4 teaspoon sugar. Then, enhance the rub with 1/2 teaspoon chili powder to give the shrimp a subtle kick.

For garlic lovers, you can add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder to the mix. Finally, if you desire even more richness and complexity, consider including other spices such as cayenne pepper, onion powder, or cumin to taste. Remember to mix all your dry ingredients together evenly in a small bowl before applying the rub onto the shrimp.

Marinade Creation

If you prefer a juicier and more tender shrimp recipe, consider creating a marinade instead. Begin by mixing 1/4 cup lemon juice with 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized bowl. The acidity of the lemon juice will help to tenderize the shrimp, while the oil will keep them moist during the cooking process.

Moving on to the seasonings, add 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika to the marinade. You can also incorporate 1 teaspoon honey for a touch of sweetness. Love garlic? Feel free to finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and include them as well.

For an extra kick, experiment with 1 teaspoon chili powder or diced chili peppers. If you want to add a touch of brightness to balance out the flavors, consider 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro if you prefer) and a few lemon wedges for serving.

Whisk the marinade ingredients together until well combined. Then, place your cleaned and peeled shrimp (leaving tails on) into a large zip-top plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than an hour to avoid over-marinating.

When ready to cook, simply remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, and wrap them with partially cooked bacon before securing with a toothpick. Follow the recipe’s cooking instructions, and remember to discard any remaining marinade.

By using either the dry rub method or the marinade creation, you can craft a scrumptious bacon wrapped shrimp dish bursting with flavor and appeal. Happy cooking!

Cooking Process

In this section, we will discuss three different cooking methods for preparing bacon-wrapped shrimp: baking, grilling, and air frying. Each method has its advantages and can result in a delicious appetizer.

Baking

To bake bacon-wrapped shrimp, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Before wrapping the shrimp, make sure they are peeled, deveined, and patted dry. Toss the shrimp in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is cooked through. To make the bacon even crispier, consider using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to ensure even cooking of the bacon.

Grilling

For grilling bacon-wrapped shrimp, first preheat your grill to medium-high heat. As with the baking method, prepare your shrimp by tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then wrap them with bacon and secure each with a toothpick.

Grill the shrimp directly on the grill grates for around 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Baste the shrimp using a mixture of melted butter and reserved marinade during cooking to add flavor and help with crisping.

Air Frying

Air frying is an excellent alternative cooking method for bacon-wrapped shrimp, as it requires less oil and can result in a crispy finish. Before cooking, prepare your shrimp similarly to the previous methods by tossing in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then wrap each shrimp in bacon and secure with a toothpick.

To air fry your shrimp, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Place the wrapped shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer and ensure that they are not touching each other. Cook the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time, until they reach the desired crispiness and the shrimp are cooked through.

Each of the cooking methods mentioned above varies in time and equipment required, but all are sure to result in a delicious, satisfying appetizer. Choose the method that best fits your preferences and available equipment, and enjoy your bacon-wrapped shrimp!

Serving and Presentation

Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a party appetizer or a main course. When presenting this dish, you want it to be visually appealing while providing your guests with an easy way to enjoy each bite.

To serve bacon-wrapped shrimp as a party appetizer, arrange the shrimp on a platter in a way that showcases their texture and color. You can create a visually appealing layout by placing the shrimp in a circular pattern or alternating between rows of shrimp and colorful garnishes, such as lemon wedges or parsley. To make it easy for your guests to grab a shrimp, insert a toothpick into each piece. This not only allows for easy handling but also adds an elegant touch to the presentation.

Offering a dipping sauce with your bacon-wrapped shrimp can add another layer of flavor and provide your guests with the option to customize their dish. Some popular dipping sauce choices include cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy mustard sauce. You can serve the sauce in a small bowl in the middle of the platter or provide individual serving cups to encourage guests to taste-test different combinations.

If you’re serving bacon-wrapped shrimp as a main course, plate the shrimp with a side of vegetables or rice to create a balanced and satisfying meal. To make it even more appealing, consider drizzling a small amount of sauce across the shrimp, giving each piece additional flavor and visual interest.

Remember that bacon-wrapped shrimp works well for both casual gatherings and more formal events, making it an ideal dish to have in your culinary repertoire. If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide or additional tips, seek out a video tutorial on making bacon-wrapped shrimp to help you master the techniques and presentation aspects of this crowd-pleasing dish. Happy cooking!

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

To store your bacon-wrapped shrimp in the refrigerator, first let them cool to room temperature. Then, place the shrimp in an airtight container with a lid or cover with plastic wrap, making sure they’re well-sealed. Your shrimp can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When you’re ready to reheat the refrigerated shrimp, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and the bacon is crisp. Make sure to enjoy them while they’re hot!

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your bacon-wrapped shrimp for a longer storage period, follow these steps:

1. Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature after cooking.
2. Place the shrimp on a parchment paper-lined tray or baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
3. Freeze the shrimp for 1-2 hours or until they are firm.
4. Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date and contents.

Your bacon-wrapped shrimp can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the shrimp for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Again, enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture.

Nutritional Information

When enjoying bacon wrapped shrimp, it’s important to be aware of the nutritional content. Here, we provide the basic nutritional information for a serving size of 4 pieces (113 g), based on available sources:

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: approximately 6g
• Cholesterol: 120-150mg (estimated, depending on the size of the shrimp)
• Sodium: 800-1000mg (estimated, based on added salt and bacon content)
• Total Carbohydrate: 3g (approximation)
• Protein: 18g
• Vitamin C: a negligible amount
• Calcium: 40-50mg (estimated)
• Iron: 2-3mg (estimated)
• Potassium: 200-300mg (estimated, based on shrimp content)

Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used in your recipe.

Bacon wrapped shrimp is a good source of protein, providing 18g per serving. However, with 19g of total fat, including about 6g of saturated fat, and a relatively high sodium content, it’s important to consume this dish in moderation.

Although this appetizer doesn’t provide significant amounts of certain nutrients like vitamin C, calcium, or iron, it does contain some potassium. The shrimp can contribute to the dish’s content of these minerals, but the quantities will depend on the size and type of shrimp used.

All in all, bacon wrapped shrimp can be a delicious and satisfying appetizer to serve at gatherings or enjoy with family. Just remember to keep an eye on the nutritional content and make informed decisions about your consumption. And as always, feel free to tailor the recipe to include more nutritious ingredients as you see fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best side dishes for bacon wrapped shrimp?

Some popular side dishes that pair well with bacon wrapped shrimp include a light and tangy coleslaw, steamed or roasted vegetables, and a simple green salad. Adding a side of rice, quinoa, or garlic bread can also complement the flavors of the shrimp and bacon.

Can bacon wrapped shrimp be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can prepare bacon wrapped shrimp in advance. Simply wrap the shrimp with bacon and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the recipe instructions and adjust the cooking time if necessary, as the shrimp may be colder than when first wrapped.

What variations can I add to bacon wrapped shrimp?

There are several ways to add extra flavor to your bacon wrapped shrimp. You can use a variety of seasoning blends on the shrimp before wrapping with bacon, such as Cajun, garlic and herb, or lemon pepper. For a spicy kick, consider adding a slice of jalapeno or a brush of Sriracha before wrapping with bacon. You can also experiment with different types of bacon, like peppered, maple, or hickory smoked bacon.

How to bake bacon wrapped shrimp skewers?

Baking bacon wrapped shrimp skewers is quite simple. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Thread the bacon wrapped shrimp onto skewers and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp is cooked through.

What is the ideal marinade for shrimp before wrapping with bacon?

A good marinade for shrimp can be a simple combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of herb and spice seasonings. For example, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon each of salt, garlic powder, and pepper, and let the shrimp marinate in the mixture for 15-30 minutes.

What is the nutritional content of bacon wrapped shrimp?

The nutritional content of bacon wrapped shrimp can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the cooking method. In general, a serving of 6 bacon wrapped shrimp may contain around 230-290 calories, 14-18 grams of fat, 24-28 grams of protein, and 2-3 grams of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these numbers may differ based on the size and type of shrimp, type of bacon, and any additional ingredients or seasonings.