Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe

The Best Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Succulent shrimp meet their perfect match in this crispy bacon wrapped shrimp recipe that promises pure culinary magic.

Salty, smoky bacon envelops tender seafood in a delectable embrace.

Each bite delivers an irresistible crunch that melts in your mouth.

The combination of crisp bacon and juicy shrimp creates a mouthwatering appetizer that steals the show at any gathering.

Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, this dish comes together faster than you can say “delicious.” Simple techniques transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary treat.

Prepare to wow everyone with this crowd-pleasing starter that disappears in seconds.

Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Why They’re Always a Hit

  • Elevate your cooking game with this restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive but requires minimal culinary skills.
  • Blend sweet honey, zesty seasonings, and crispy bacon to transform simple shrimp into a mouthwatering sensation that delights taste buds.
  • Prepare a crowd-pleasing starter in under half an hour, perfect for unexpected guests, game day gatherings, or spontaneous dinner parties.
  • Serve as an elegant appetizer, game day snack, or protein-packed bite that appeals to both sophisticated palates and casual food lovers.

Ingredients for the Best Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Main Proteins:
  • Shrimp: Large, succulent seafood that serves as the primary protein in this appetizer.
  • Bacon: Thin strips that will create a crispy, flavorful wrapper around each shrimp.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Olive Oil, Honey: Creates a sweet and smooth coating that helps seasonings stick to the shrimp.
  • Salt, Pepper, Other Seasonings: Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and complements the bacon's richness.
Serving Accompaniments:
  • Lemon Wedges, Dipping Sauce: Provides a bright, tangy contrast and additional flavor to the crispy bacon-wrapped shrimp.
Preparation Tools:
  • Toothpicks: Helps secure the bacon around each shrimp during cooking.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking during broiling.

Tools for Wrapping and Baking Shrimp with Bacon

  • Baking Sheet: Rimmed, essential for cooking bacon and shrimp evenly.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Toothpicks: Needed to secure bacon around each shrimp.
  • Sharp Knife: Used for cutting bacon lengthwise into thin strips.
  • Mixing Bowl: For combining olive oil, honey, and seasonings.
  • Paper Towels: To drain excess grease from partially cooked bacon.
  • Broiling Pan or Baking Sheet: For final cooking stage under the broiler.

How to Cook Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp at Home

Step 1: Prepare Bacon and Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle.

Slice bacon lengthwise into thin strips, ensuring you have one strip per shrimp.

Spread the bacon strips in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.

Step 2: Partially Cook Bacon

Place bacon in the oven for 6-8 minutes until it starts to brown but remains flexible.

Meanwhile, create a flavor mixture by combining:
  • Olive oil
  • Honey
  • Seasonings

Toss the shrimp in this delicious marinade.

Step 3: Set Up Broiling Station

Transfer partially cooked bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease.

Clean the baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.

Switch the oven to broil.

Step 4: Wrap Shrimp in Bacon

Carefully wrap each seasoned shrimp with a bacon strip, starting from the thicker end.

Secure each wrapped shrimp with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Arrange them with some space between each piece.

Step 5: Broil to Crispy Perfection

Broil the bacon-wrapped shrimp for 4-6 minutes.

Halfway through cooking, rotate the pan to ensure even browning.

Look for crispy bacon and perfectly cooked shrimp.

Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible appetizer.

Tips for Juicy Shrimp and Crisp Bacon

  • Choose thin-cut bacon for easier wrapping and crispier results. Thicker bacon might not cook as evenly around delicate shrimp.
  • Watch shrimp closely during broiling to avoid rubbery texture. They cook quickly and can become tough if left too long.
  • Experiment with different spice blends like Cajun, Italian, or garlic herb to match your flavor preferences and keep the dish exciting.
  • Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning during high-heat cooking.
  • Use gluten-free honey or substitute with maple syrup for those with dietary restrictions while maintaining the sweet-savory balance.

New Takes on Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

  • Spicy Jalapeño Bacon Shrimp: Replace honey with sriracha sauce and add minced jalapeños to the seasoning mix for a fiery kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Bacon Shrimp: Swap olive oil for Greek yogurt and incorporate dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary into the seasoning blend.
  • Gluten-Free Bacon Shrimp: Use gluten-free bacon and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Coconut Curry Bacon Shrimp: Substitute honey with coconut milk and add mild curry powder to create an exotic flavor profile.

Serving Ideas for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp at Parties

  • Seaside Party Platter: Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp beautifully on a large wooden board with fresh lemon wedges, sprinkle chopped parsley, and add small ramekins of zesty cocktail sauce for an impressive appetizer spread.
  • Tropical Tapas Night: Pair these crispy shrimp with chilled white wine or a fruity mojito, creating a perfect summer entertaining experience that brings coastal vibes to your dining table.
  • Quick Salad Topper: Slice the bacon-wrapped shrimp and scatter them over a fresh mixed green salad with avocado chunks, adding a protein-packed crunch to your light meal.
  • Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these bite-sized delights on a large platter with toothpicks, making them an easy-to-grab snack during sports events or casual gatherings with friends.

Storage for Leftover Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

  • Seal leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp in an airtight container, keeping them fresh for 2-3 days. Place a paper towel inside to absorb extra moisture and prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F, place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through, ensuring crispy bacon and succulent shrimp.

FAQs

  • Why pre-cook the bacon before wrapping shrimp?

Pre-cooking bacon ensures it becomes crispy without overcooking the delicate shrimp. This method helps achieve the perfect texture for both bacon and shrimp.

  • Can I use different types of honey?

Yes, any honey works – raw, processed, or flavored. The honey helps create a caramelized exterior and adds subtle sweetness to the shrimp.

  • How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Look for opaque, pinkish-white color and a slight curl in the shrimp’s shape. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so watch carefully during broiling.

Print
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Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe

Crispy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy bacon wrapped shrimp invite seafood enthusiasts to savor a mouthwatering appetizer blending savory bacon with succulent shellfish. Guests will relish this simple yet elegant dish that combines smoky and oceanic flavors in each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound extra-jumbo shrimp (1620 per pound), peeled and deveined with tails on
  • 1 pound center-cut bacon (not thick cut)

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Serving Ingredients:

  • Toothpicks for securing
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F with the middle rack positioned. Slice bacon lengthwise into thin strips, ensuring one strip per shrimp. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Partially cook bacon for 6-8 minutes until lightly browned but still flexible. Meanwhile, whisk olive oil, honey, and seasonings in a bowl. Thoroughly coat shrimp in this flavorful marinade.
  3. Transfer partially cooked bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease. Clean the baking sheet and line with parchment paper. Switch oven to broil setting.
  4. Carefully wrap each seasoned shrimp with a bacon strip, starting from the thicker end. Secure each wrapped shrimp with a toothpick, positioning them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure proper spacing between shrimp.
  5. Broil wrapped shrimp for 4-6 minutes, rotating the pan midway through cooking. Look for crispy bacon and perfectly cooked shrimp. Plate immediately with fresh lemon wedges and a complementary dipping sauce for an elegant appetizer.

Notes

  • Select high-quality large shrimp for the best texture and flavor explosion.
  • Par-cook bacon ensures it becomes extra crispy without overcooking delicate shrimp.
  • Use fresh, raw shrimp instead of pre-cooked to maintain optimal moisture and prevent rubbery texture.
  • Experiment with spice blends like Cajun, garlic-herb, or sweet chili to customize flavor profiles.
  • Line baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and preventing bacon from sticking.
  • Toothpicks are crucial for keeping bacon wrapped tightly during broiling process.
  • Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to help bacon crisp up perfectly.
  • Monitor broiling closely to prevent burning, as high heat can quickly char bacon and shrimp.
  • Gluten-free option: Verify bacon and seasonings are gluten-free for dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Broiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 376
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 721 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 236 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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