Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Description

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a savory appetizer made by wrapping juicy shrimp in crispy bacon, then baking or pan-searing until golden and caramelized. The smoky bacon perfectly complements the tender shrimp, making this dish a crowd-pleasing starter or party snack.

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Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

Main

• 450 g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

• 12–16 slices bacon (thin-cut works best)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for pan-searing)

Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne

Optional Glaze (for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or melted butter

Garnish

• 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

• Lemon wedges (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels.

2. Season shrimp evenly with paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and chili powder (if using).

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Step 2: Wrap with bacon

1. Cut bacon slices in half if they are long.

2. Wrap one piece of bacon tightly around each shrimp.

3. Secure with a toothpick if needed.

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Step 3: Cook the shrimp

Option A: Oven-Baked (Recommended for crispiness)

1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.

2. Place shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking tray (this helps bacon crisp evenly).

3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes until bacon is crispy and shrimp is cooked through.

Option B: Pan-Seared

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add olive oil and place shrimp seam-side down.

3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until bacon is browned and shrimp is opaque.

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Step 4: Optional glaze

1. Brush shrimp lightly with honey/soy sauce or melted butter during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.

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Step 5: Finish and serve

1. Remove toothpicks before serving.

2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

3. Serve hot with lemon wedges or dipping sauce.

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Serve With

• Garlic aioli

• Sweet chili sauce

• Honey mustard or BBQ sauce

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Tips

• Use large shrimp so they don’t overcook before the bacon crisps.

• Thin bacon works better than thick-cut.

• For extra crunch, broil briefly at the end.