Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Bacon wrapped shrimp offer a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish. The combination of crispy bacon and tender shrimp delivers a mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
With just a few simple ingredients like maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic powder, this dish transforms into a deliciously sticky glaze that perfectly complements the shrimp. It’s a flavorful option for any occasion.
Broiled to crispy perfection, these shrimp are easy to prepare and ready in under 20 minutes. Whether for a family gathering or dinner party, this dish will surely impress your guests with its elegance and taste.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Ingredients
The star of this dish, large shrimp, provides a delicate sweetness and tender texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon. Bacon adds a smoky richness, infusing each bite with savory depth.
Maple syrup brings a subtle, natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts the salty bacon. Soy sauce contributes a savory umami note, while garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of warmth.
Fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing herbal finish, elevating this simple yet indulgent dish. Each ingredient plays its part, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that make this recipe irresistible.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe Tips
- Choose the Right Shrimp
When selecting shrimp for this recipe, go for the largest size possible, such as colossal or extra jumbo shrimp. Larger shrimp are easier to wrap with bacon and will hold up better during cooking. They also ensure the shrimp stay juicy and tender while the bacon crisps up to perfection. - Use Regular Cut Bacon
Opt for regular cut bacon rather than thick-cut bacon. Thick-cut bacon may not cook evenly, leaving the bacon underdone while the shrimp become overcooked. Regular cut bacon crisps up nicely and ensures that both the shrimp and bacon are cooked to perfection at the same time. - Brush the Glaze Twice
For the best flavor, brush the shrimp with the glaze halfway through cooking. This extra layer of glaze helps build a flavorful, sticky coating that complements the shrimp and bacon. Don’t skip this step—it ensures the shrimp are coated in a sweet and savory glaze throughout.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Crispy Roasted Vegetables
Pair these bacon-wrapped shrimp with a side of crispy roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The earthy flavor of roasted vegetables perfectly balances the rich, smoky taste of the shrimp and bacon, making for a satisfying and well-rounded meal. - Garlic Butter Pasta
For a more indulgent option, serve the shrimp alongside a creamy garlic butter pasta. The richness of the buttery sauce complements the salty bacon and sweet shrimp, creating a luxurious and comforting dish. It’s the perfect choice for a dinner party or a special family meal. - Fresh Salad with Citrus Dressing
A light and refreshing salad with a citrus dressing is a great way to balance the richness of the bacon-wrapped shrimp. Opt for a mix of greens like arugula or spinach, and add some orange or grapefruit segments to bring a touch of sweetness and acidity to the meal.
FAQ
- Can I make Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and wrap them with bacon ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When ready to serve, just broil them as per the instructions for a quick and easy appetizer or main course. - Can I grill these bacon-wrapped shrimp instead of broiling?
Absolutely! If you prefer grilling, simply preheat your grill and cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent the bacon from burning. - What can I substitute for maple syrup in the glaze?
If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup. Both alternatives will still provide a nice touch of sweetness, though the flavor profile may differ slightly. Adjust the amount to your taste preference. - How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn a pinkish color and curl into a C-shape. They should be opaque and firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery if left on the heat too long.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients
- 2 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined, with tails left intact
- 1 pound regular cut bacon sliced in half crosswise
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the broiler. Prepare a baking sheet by coating it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Take each shrimp and wrap it with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush half of this glaze over the shrimp, ensuring each is coated well.
- Broil the shrimp for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crisp and the shrimp are fully cooked. Halfway through the cooking time, brush the remaining glaze over the shrimp to add extra flavor.
- Once done, sprinkle the shrimp with chopped parsley for garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
Keeping the tails on the shrimp enhances the presentation, making the dish visually appealing.
Use regular cut bacon to ensure it cooks evenly with the shrimp. Thick-cut bacon will require additional time and may result in uneven cooking.
