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 (16–20 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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