Name: Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Irresistible Appetizer in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 20 pieces Shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on; 7 pieces Thick-Cut Bacon, cut into thirds; 4 Tbsp Butter, melted; 2 Tbsp Maple Syrup (can substitute with honey); 1 Tbsp Chili Powder (or smoked paprika for a different flavor)

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There’s something utterly delightful about the union of crispy bacon and tender shrimp. I’ll never forget the first time I whipped up Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp for a gathering; the looks on my friends’ faces as they took that first bite was priceless! This quick appetizer not only tantalizes the taste buds with its savory and slightly sweet flavors—thanks to a touch of maple syrup—but also elevates any casual get-together into a memorable dining experience. In just 30 minutes, you can have these crowd-pleasers ready to dazzle at your next party or cozy weekend dinner. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this simple yet extraordinary recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!

Why is Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp so popular?

Irresistible Combination: The pairing of savory bacon with sweet, succulent shrimp creates a flavor explosion that delights every palate.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tasty bites make entertaining easy and stress-free.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for parties or intimate dinners, they shine as an appetizer or snack, appealing to both casual eaters and foodies alike.
Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress your guests, this dish is a standout that often has everyone asking for the recipe! For more exciting serving suggestions, pair them with zesty dipping sauces to enhance the experience.
Simple Ingredients: With few components, it’s an uncomplicated dish that’s easy to whip up with items you likely already have on hand.

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – About 20 pieces, peeled and deveined with tails on; they provide protein and a seafood base for the dish.

For the Bacon

Thick-Cut Bacon – 7 pieces, cut into thirds; it adds saltiness and a crunchy texture when cooked, perfect for wrapping around the shrimp.

For the Butter Mixture

Butter – 4 Tbsp, melted; it enhances flavor and helps with crisping the bacon for that perfect bite.
Maple Syrup – 2 Tbsp; a touch of sweetness that balances the savory bacon wonderfully—honey can be used as a substitute if you prefer.
Chili Powder – 1 Tbsp; it introduces a mild heat to enhance the overall flavor; smoked paprika can be a great alternative for a different twist.

Feel free to experiment within this framework, and discover your own flair for these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp that are sure to become a fixture at your gatherings!

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp bake evenly and come out perfectly crispy.
Mix the melted butter, maple syrup, and chili powder in a bowl. This delightful mixture adds flavor and a sweet glaze to your dish, making each bite irresistible.
Wrap each shrimp with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary. Make sure the bacon covers the shrimp well to enhance the flavor and texture.
Arrange the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spacing them out is vital to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Brush the shrimp with the butter mixture and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is golden brown and the shrimp turn a lovely pink.

Optional: Serve warm with a zesty dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Even Spacing: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crisping of all your Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Always choose thick-cut bacon for better texture and flavor. Thin bacon can render too much fat and become excessively greasy.
Toothpick Usage: If the bacon doesn’t stay in place while wrapping the shrimp, use a toothpick to secure it for uniform cooking; just remember to remove them before serving.
Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, broil the shrimp for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment! Substituting garlic powder or lemon zest in the butter mixture can add delightful new flavors to your Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp.

How to Store and Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Freezer: If you want to freeze them, place the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the wrapped shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking, allowing you more time to enjoy with your guests.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time and enjoy flavorful bites whenever you need them! You can prepare the wrapped shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the bacon tightly wrapped around the shrimp to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, brush the shrimp with the butter mixture and bake them directly from the fridge—no need to thaw! This way, you’ll still enjoy the same crispy texture and delicious flavor without the last-minute hassle.

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Variations

Make this delicious appetizer even more exciting with your own flavorful twists and creative substitutions!

Prosciutto Swap: Replace bacon with prosciutto for a lighter, yet sophisticated flavor that’s equally delightful.
Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the butter glaze for a fragrant touch that’s simply irresistible.
Crumbly Topping: Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the wrapped shrimp before baking for a crunchy, golden finish.
Honey Glaze: Swap the maple syrup with honey for a different sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bacon’s savory notes.
Citrus Zing: Add some lemon or lime zest to the butter mixture for a bright, refreshing flavor that enhances the shrimp.
Stuffed Delight: Consider stuffing the shrimp with cheese like cream cheese or goat cheese before wrapping them in bacon for a rich, creamy surprise.
Veggie Twist: For a vegetarian version, wrap asparagus or jalapeños in bacon, using the same delicious butter mixture for flavor!

These variations are sure to delight your senses and keep your gatherings lively and unique!

What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?

Pairing these savory bites with the right sides will create a delightful full meal experience for your gathering.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and garlic flavor complement the rich bacon, making it a perfect finger food pairing.
Fresh Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the shrimp.
Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory bites, making every bite a flavor adventure.
Zesty Dipping Sauces: Serve with aioli or spicy remoulade; these dips elevate the flavors and add an exciting kick to each shrimp.
Sautéed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a pop of color to your plate and a hint of earthiness that complements the salty bacon beautifully.
Savory Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs offer a hearty side that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of the shrimp.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio provides a refreshing contrast and enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a decadent dessert that offers a rich, creamy texture to balance the savory shrimp.

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Absolutely, I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp with the tails on for the best results. They provide a juicy foundation that complements the crispy bacon beautifully. Look for shrimp that are uniformly sized, so they cook evenly.

How do I store leftover Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure they are completely cooled before sealing the container, as this prevents any moisture that could make them soggy!

Can Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp be frozen?
Yes! To freeze, arrange the uncooked bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet without touching each other and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw; just bake them a few extra minutes!

What can I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If your shrimp come out overcooked, they can lose their juiciness. To prevent this, keep an eye on the cooking time. The shrimp should be cooked until they are a lovely pink color, usually 20-25 minutes in the oven. If you’re unsure, you can always cut into one to check; they should be opaque and tender.

Are there any dietary considerations for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
For those with pork allergies or dietary restrictions, consider substituting bacon with turkey bacon or prosciutto. Additionally, ensure your shrimp are sourced from responsible fisheries to support sustainable practices. Just double-check any ingredient labels for potential allergens like gluten or added sugars.

Can I prepare Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp ahead of time by wrapping them and storing them in your fridge for up to a few hours before baking. This little trick allows you more precious time with guests, letting you enjoy the gathering while still serving a delicious appetizer!