Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Imagine the smoky crunch of bacon paired with the tender sweetness of shrimp, creating a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. This bacon wrapped shrimp recipe stands out for its straightforward appeal, making it ideal for home cooks looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find it’s adaptable to many tastes and occasions, from quick family dinners to elegant party appetizers. Not only does it deliver bold flavors, but it also fits into various healthy eating plans, adding to its versatility.
This recipe is wonderfully simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With just a few steps and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious and impressive dish ready in no time. Packed with protein and healthy fats from both the shrimp and bacon, this recipe offers nutritional advantages that support wellness, as shrimp is low in calories and rich in vitamins like B12 and selenium, promoting heart and brain health. The recipe is highly adaptable to various dietary needs, whether you’re following a keto, gluten-free, or low-carb lifestyle, allowing you to adjust ingredients or cooking methods without sacrificing flavor. The combination of smoky, crispy bacon wrapped around tender, juicy shrimp creates a mouthwatering contrast that will delight your palate.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Essential Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- How to Prepare the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
- Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Mastering Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Advanced Tips and Variations
- How to Store Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Best Practices
- FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- How do you make bacon wrapped shrimp crispy without burning the bacon?
- What are some easy sauces to serve with bacon wrapped shrimp?
- Can I prepare bacon wrapped shrimp ahead of time and freeze it?
- What is the best cooking method for bacon wrapped shrimp if I don’t want to use an oven?
- How do I choose the right type of shrimp for bacon wrapped shrimp recipes?
- Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Last Step:
- Notes
- Nutrition
- Did you make this recipe?
Essential Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this tasty dish. The list below pulls together everything you need for a flawless preparation. For more ideas on pairing flavors, check out our strawberry sauce recipe, which can make a great dipping option.
- 8 slices of bacon, halved crosswise
- 16 large shrimp, peeled except for the tail and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
This list ensures you have the exact quantities for a balanced flavor. Each item plays a key role, from the smoky bacon to the seasoned shrimp, making the dish both hearty and delicious.
How to Prepare the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started with this recipe is easy and rewarding. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your ingredients for the best results. For instance, learn more about the health benefits of shrimp by visiting a reliable source like this shrimp nutrition guide, which highlights its role in a balanced diet. Now, let’s dive into the steps.
Preheat the oven to 425˚F and arrange the bacon slices on an oven-safe rack inside a baking sheet, leaving space around each slice. Bake the bacon for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness, until it is pliable but not fully crisp. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, wrap each piece around one shrimp and secure it with a toothpick.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them, if not already done. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely when cooked. Season each shrimp evenly with garlic powder and black pepper to enhance flavor. Return the wrapped shrimp to the oven-safe rack and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the bacon is cooked through. Serve immediately.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Making this recipe your own is simple with a few smart swaps. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter meal or accommodating dietary restrictions, these changes keep the dish enjoyable. You can explore more dessert options that pair well, like our vanilla cupcakes, for a sweet finish after your meal. Always check labels for allergens to ensure everything fits your needs.
For protein and main component alternatives, consider a vegetarian option by substituting shrimp with large king oyster mushrooms or tofu slices wrapped in plant-based bacon. Pescatarians avoiding pork can use turkey bacon or smoked salmon wraps around shrimp or fish fillets. For low-fat preferences, opt for turkey bacon or omit bacon completely and season shrimp robustly. When adjusting vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, swap garlic powder for smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a flavor twist. Replace olive oil with avocado oil or a light butter spray to alter the fat profile and use citrus-based sauces or fresh herb marinades instead of lemon juice for varied taste profiles. Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini ribbons tossed alongside for more texture and nutrition. These substitutions allow you to tailor the bacon wrapped shrimp recipe to suit personal dietary needs, seasonal availability, or flavor preferences while maintaining a delightful eating experience.
Mastering Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your bacon wrapped shrimp to the next level involves some clever techniques and creative twists. For pro cooking techniques, partially cook bacon strips before wrapping the shrimp to ensure crispy results without overcooking.
Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to avoid undercooked bacon or overcooked shrimp, and remember to cut bacon strips in half or thirds based on length to fit the shrimp perfectly.Flavor variations let you experiment with seasoning blends like Cajun or smoked paprika. Presentation tips include arranging on skewers with fresh herbs for an eye-catching display.
Pro cooking techniques include partially cooking bacon strips in a skillet or microwave before wrapping the shrimp to prevent undercooked bacon while allowing shrimp to remain juicy. For flavor variations, experiment with seasoning blends like Cajun, Old Bay, or smoked paprika to diversify the flavor profile, and consider brushing a honey sriracha glaze on shrimp before baking for a sweet and spicy kick. Presentation tips suggest serving bacon wrapped shrimp on skewers or arranged on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an elegant look. Make-ahead options involve assembling the wrapped shrimp a few hours in advance and refrigerating, then baking fresh before serving to save time on busy days. These expert adjustments help elevate your bacon wrapped shrimp for occasions ranging from casual dinners to gourmet entertaining, keeping the dish flavorful and versatile. For air fryer cooking, reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit and shorten the cooking time by 20-25% while monitoring for even results, and note that toothpicks are necessary to secure the bacon.
How to Store Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Best Practices
Proper storage keeps your bacon wrapped shrimp tasting fresh and delicious. Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term options, freezing works well if done correctly.
- Refrigeration: Store cooked bacon wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and use within 1 month for best quality.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without drying out shrimp and avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
- Meal prep considerations: Prepare and wrap shrimp in advance, then refrigerate unbaked and bake fresh when ready to serve for optimal taste and texture.
These methods help preserve the quality, making it easy to enjoy this dish anytime. The total preparation time is approximately 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling about 35 minutes, so plan accordingly.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
How do you make bacon wrapped shrimp crispy without burning the bacon?
To keep the bacon crispy without burning it, partially cook the bacon before wrapping it around the shrimp. This helps render some fat and prevents it from overcooking during the shrimp’s shorter cooking time. Wrap the shrimp with partially cooked bacon, secure with a toothpick, and bake at 400°F (204°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Turning the shrimp halfway through cooking also promotes even crispiness.
What are some easy sauces to serve with bacon wrapped shrimp?
Popular sauces that pair well with bacon wrapped shrimp include cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, spicy remoulade, and honey mustard. For a quick garlic aioli, mix mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. These sauces complement the smoky, savory flavors of the bacon without overpowering the shrimp.
Can I prepare bacon wrapped shrimp ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, bacon wrapped shrimp can be prepared in advance and frozen for later. Assemble the shrimp with the bacon and toothpicks, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, ensuring they are fully cooked.
What is the best cooking method for bacon wrapped shrimp if I don’t want to use an oven?
If you prefer not to use an oven, an air fryer is a great alternative. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding, and cook for 8-10 minutes. Turn halfway through cooking to promote even browning. Adjust cooking times slightly based on the size of shrimp and air fryer model to avoid overcooking.
How do I choose the right type of shrimp for bacon wrapped shrimp recipes?
Opt for large or jumbo shrimp with shells removed and tails on for easy handling and an attractive presentation. Fresh or thawed shrimp should be firm and with a mild smell. Using deveined shrimp ensures a cleaner taste and better texture. Avoid smaller shrimp, as they may cook too quickly and cause the bacon to overcook or become soggy.

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
🥓 Bacon Wrapped Shrimp recipes deliver a perfect harmony of crispy bacon and juicy shrimp for a flavorful appetizer or main dish.
🍤 Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this recipe is ideal for entertaining or a quick, delicious meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
Ingredients
– 8 slices of bacon, halved crosswise
– 16 large shrimp, peeled except for the tail and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (or 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt)
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1-Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425˚F and arrange the bacon slices on an oven-safe rack inside a baking sheet, leaving space around each slice. Bake the bacon for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness, until it is pliable but not fully crisp.
2-Prepare the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3-Wrap the shrimp: Once the bacon is cool enough to handle, wrap each piece around one shrimp and secure it with a toothpick.
4-Preheat the oven again: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5-Prepare the shrimp further: Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them, if not already done. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely when cooked. Season each shrimp evenly with garlic powder and black pepper to enhance flavor.
6-Bake the wrapped shrimp: Return the wrapped shrimp to the oven-safe rack and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the bacon is cooked through.
7-Serve: Serve immediately.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥓 Partially cook bacon first to avoid undercooked bacon or overcooked shrimp.
🔪 Cut bacon strips to fit shrimp size to prevent excessive overlap.
🧂 Use simple seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper to highlight shrimp’s natural flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 238
- Sodium: 623 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 89 mg






