There’s something undeniably enticing about the combination of crispy bacon and succulent shrimp that can elevate any gathering into a celebration. Picture this: you’re mingling with friends, laughter fills the air, and the aroma of spicy maple bacon-wrapped shrimp wafts through the room, instantly drawing everyone closer. This dish has become my go-to appetizer for both casual get-togethers and more formal occasions, as it marries flavor and ease perfectly.
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll quickly whip up these irresistible bites that offer a delightful sweet and spicy glaze, transforming ordinary shrimp into a show-stopping delicacy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a flavorful treat, this bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe is here to rescue you from boring appetizers. Ready to dive into this culinary creation that’s sure to please a crowd? Let’s get cooking!
Why will you love bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Simplicity, the ingredient list is minimal, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
Bold Flavor, the spicy maple glaze adds a sweet kick, making each bite unforgettable.
Crowd-Pleaser, perfect for parties, these bites will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile, serve them warm, or as a make-ahead option for effortless entertaining.
Quick Prep, ready in just under 30 minutes, they fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Extra-Large Shrimp – Use about 20 shrimp, shelled with tails left on for a beautiful presentation.
• Fine Sea Salt – A light sprinkle helps firm up the shrimp’s texture before cooking.
For the Bacon
• Thin-Cut Bacon – This type cooks faster and crisps up perfectly, rendering just the right amount of fat.
For the Glaze
• Pure Maple Syrup – Use 100% maple syrup to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness with the savory bacon.
• Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce – Adds a spicy kick; feel free to swap with Korean Gochujang for a unique twist.
For Serving
• Lemon Wedges – These brighten the dish with acidity; fresh lemon pairs beautifully with the savory shrimp.
• Scallions (finely chopped) – A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor and elevates presentation.
For Assembly
• Wooden Skewers – Soak them in water to prevent burning while cooking; they help secure the shrimp and bacon together.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
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Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This step ensures easy cleanup later when those delicious shrimp come out.
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Par-Bake Bacon: Arrange the bacon strips on the baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until they start to brown but are still floppy. This pre-cooking prevents undercooked bacon later; drain any excess fat and set aside.
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Prepare Shrimp: Toss the extra-large shrimp with ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Let them sit for a few minutes, then rinse under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to keep them juicy during cooking.
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Make Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together pure maple syrup and Sriracha hot chili sauce. This spicy maple glaze will be the secret to your irresistible flavor!
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Glaze Bacon: Brush the glaze on both sides of the par-cooked bacon strips, then cut each piece in half. This ensures every bite of bacon will be packed with flavor.
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Wrap Shrimp: Take each shrimp and secure it with a half-strip of bacon using the soaked wooden skewers. Brush any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor and shine.
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Bake & Broil: Place the wrapped shrimp in the oven and bake for 5 minutes. Switch to broil for an additional 4-6 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Optional: Serve with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These bacon-wrapped shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on entertaining! You can prepare the shrimp and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the wrapping instructions, then place the assembled skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to bake. This helps keep the shrimp juicy and the bacon crisp. When it’s time to serve, just pop them in the oven—bake for 5 minutes, then broil for 4-6 minutes until the bacon is crispy. Your guests will enjoy every delicious bite of these make-ahead bacon-wrapped shrimp, making your party planning effortless!
What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
These delightful bites are perfect for creating a memorable meal experience, tantalizing your taste buds with their sweet and savory profile.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and tang, balancing the richness of the bacon-wrapped shrimp perfectly. This combination creates a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.
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Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice offers a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the spicy maple glaze, providing a lovely base for the shrimp. Its fluffy texture is a delightful counterpart to the crispy bacon.
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Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus brings a touch of smokiness and vibrant color to your plate. The slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the dish, completing the flavor spectrum.
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Garlic Butter Bread: Crispy, warm bread with a garlic butter spread is perfect for soaking up any extra glaze. It adds a comforting element, making the meal feel warm and inviting.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with peppery arugula and a citrus vinaigrette makes for a bright, fresh accompaniment. The acidity works to balance the richness of the shrimp, enhancing overall enjoyment.
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Spicy Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa adds a punch of flavor and freshness to the dish. The sweetness of the mango beautifully complements the spicy glaze, creating a tropical twist that’s irresistible.
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Margarita: A classic cocktail with zesty lime flavors enhances the meal’s boldness, while its refreshing nature provides the perfect sip alongside your savory shrimp.
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Chocolate Fondue: For a decadent dessert, chocolate fondue served with fresh fruits offers a sweet finale to your meal. It contrasts the smoky, savory flavors with rich sweetness.
Expert Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
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Salt & Rinse Shrimp: Salting and rinsing the shrimp not only enhances flavor but also helps retain moisture during cooking, preventing dry shrimp.
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Pre-Bake Bacon: This crucial step ensures that the bacon crisps perfectly without overcooking the shrimp, resulting in a balanced, delicious bite.
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Opt for Thin Bacon: Using thin-cut bacon allows for quick cooking and easy wrapping around the shrimp, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
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Watch the Broiling: Stay close during the broiling phase to prevent burning; rotate the shrimp to achieve an even, crispy texture.
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Experiment with Glaze: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spicy maple glaze with different sauces or spices for personalized flavor, enhancing your bacon-wrapped shrimp experience!
Storage Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain crispness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze these delectable bites, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen bacon-wrapped shrimp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and bacon is crispy again.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them warm, drizzled with extra maple glaze or served with fresh lemon wedges to brighten the rich flavors.
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful recipe with these tasty twists!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap standard bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter option that still delivers incredible flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra Sriracha to the glaze or toss in some red pepper flakes for an added heat level.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the glaze for a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Honey Brush: Instead of maple syrup, use honey for a different sweet profile that pairs beautifully with the bacon.
- Pineapple Addition: Skewer pineapple chunks with the shrimp for a sweet and savory combo that’s sure to surprise.
- Coconut Crust: Roll the bacon-wrapped shrimp in unsweetened shredded coconut before baking for a tropical twist and crunch.
- Garlic Aioli Dip: Serve with a garlic aioli dip for a creamier, richer taste experience that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Stuffed Shrimp: Add a small slice of jalapeño or cream cheese inside the shrimp before wrapping for an unexpected creamy filling.
Your bacon-wrapped shrimp will never be the same! Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect combination!
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Absolutely, for the best results, use extra-large shrimp (about 20) that are shelled with the tails left on. The size gives the dish a hearty bite while ensuring they pair well with the crispy bacon.
How should I store leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave. This way, they’ll retain that delicious crispiness!
Can bacon-wrapped shrimp be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them! First, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows them to be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes for the best texture.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
If you find that your bacon isn’t crispy enough, don’t worry! Just switch your oven to broil and keep a close eye on the shrimp for an additional 4-6 minutes. This method will help achieve that golden, crispy finish you desire. Remember to rotate the shrimp for even crisping!
Are bacon-wrapped shrimp a good option for those with dietary restrictions?
When it comes to dietary considerations, these shrimp can easily be adapted. For those concerned about carbohydrate intake, simply enjoy the shrimp without any glaze or use sugar-free maple syrup. If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, ensure to check that they are not allergic to shellfish or bacon before serving.
Can I make bacon-wrapped shrimp ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the shrimp the night before and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. Just bake them fresh just before serving for that perfect crispy texture. This way, you can spend more time enjoying your gathering!
Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Spicy Maple Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Arrange the bacon strips on the baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until they start to brown but are still floppy.
- Toss the extra-large shrimp with ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt, let them sit for a few minutes, then rinse under cold water and pat them dry.
- Mix together pure maple syrup and Sriracha hot chili sauce in a small bowl.
- Brush the glaze on both sides of the par-cooked bacon strips, then cut each piece in half.
- Secure each shrimp with a half-strip of bacon using the soaked wooden skewers and brush any remaining glaze over the top.
- Bake the wrapped shrimp for 5 minutes, then switch to broil for an additional 4-6 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Optional: Serve with fresh lemon wedges for a zesty finish.