Dive into a world where the smoky taste of bacon meets the sweet tenderness of shrimp in the ultimate appetizer: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering, from casual backyard BBQs to elegant dinner parties. It combines two favorites into one delicious bite, offering a blend of textures and flavors that are hard to resist.
Simple to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe promises to deliver a mouthwatering experience. Each shrimp is wrapped in a piece of bacon, then cooked to perfection, creating a perfect harmony of savory and juicy with every bite.
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Why This Recipe Works
What sets this Bacon Wrapped Shrimp recipe apart is its simplicity and the magical combination of flavors. Bacon brings a rich, smoky depth to the naturally sweet and tender shrimp, creating a balance that's both satisfying and sophisticated. The bacon not only adds flavor but also keeps the shrimp moist and tender during cooking, preventing it from drying out. This recipe is foolproof, requiring minimal ingredients and steps, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a delicious snack, this recipe is a surefire way to delight the taste buds.
Moreover, the versatility of this dish makes it a fantastic choice for any meal or occasion. It can be served as a standalone appetizer, a side to complement a main course, or even as a main dish when paired with sides like salads or roasted vegetables. The recipe's adaptability allows you to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making it customizable for different palates. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, bacon-wrapped shrimp can be tailored to fit your cravings. Its ease, coupled with the luxurious feel of the dish, ensures it's a recipe you'll come back to time and time again.
Ingredients
Shrimp: Large, juicy shrimp are the centerpiece of this dish. Substitute: For a different taste, scallops can be a luxurious alternative.
Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky flavor. Thin slices work best for easy wrapping. Substitute: Turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Garlic Powder: Gives a subtle garlic flavor to the shrimp. Substitute: Minced fresh garlic for a more intense flavor.
Pepper: Just a pinch to enhance the overall taste. Substitute: Smoked paprika for a bit of spice and smokiness.
Olive Oil: Helps in marinating the shrimp and adds richness. Substitute: Melted butter for a richer flavor.
Tips
- Pat the shrimp dry before wrapping to ensure the bacon crisps up nicely.
- Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to ensure it's fully crispy by the time the shrimp are done.
- Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place during cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld together.
How to Serve
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal or occasion. Serve these delicious bites as an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party or as a savory snack during a family game night. Their succulent and smoky flavor is sure to impress any crowd.
- Pair with a light, crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve atop a creamy risotto for a decadent dinner option.
- Offer with a side of tangy cocktail sauce or a smooth garlic aioli for dipping.
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Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients
- 20 large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 10 slices of bacon cut in half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Partially cook the bacon slices until they start to render fat but are still flexible, about 2-3 minutes.
- Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet or directly on the grill grate.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and the bacon is crispy.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Partially cook the bacon before wrapping to ensure it's fully crispy by the time the shrimp are done.
• Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place during cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to meld together.