Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

There’s something unforgettable about the first time I made bacon-wrapped shrimp. It was a last-minute decision before a holiday potluck—one of those moments when you hope a simple recipe can deliver something magical. To my surprise, these tiny bites vanished within minutes, and the compliments kept coming. That experience cemented this dish as my go-to recipe whenever I want maximum impact with minimal effort.

If you’re new to cooking, this bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe is perfect for you. It’s not only beginner-friendly and quick to prepare but also strikes a balance between indulgent and health-conscious. With just a few staple ingredients and a broiler, you’ll have an appetizer that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Why This Recipe is Special

Bacon-wrapped shrimp might sound fancy, but it’s all about smart techniques and accessible ingredients. Each bite blends smoky, crispy bacon with the juicy tenderness of shrimp, elevated by a touch of sweet honey and aromatic spices. What makes this dish truly shine is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re serving two or twenty, this recipe scales effortlessly and suits any occasion—from casual movie nights to elegant dinner parties.

For beginner cooks, this is a confidence-building recipe. There’s no complicated equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple steps and flavorful results.

Ingredients and Preparation

Shrimp: Choose large or extra-jumbo shrimp for better texture and cooking control. Shrimp are high in protein, low in fat, and cook incredibly fast, making them perfect for quick and healthy meals. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using zucchini strips rolled with cheese as a creative stand-in.

Bacon: Use center-cut bacon, which is leaner and crisps more evenly. It adds smoky richness and a satisfying crunch. Avoid thick-cut varieties—they take too long to crisp and may leave your shrimp overcooked. Turkey bacon can be used as a lighter alternative.

Honey: Brings a gentle sweetness that enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp and helps the bacon caramelize during broiling. Maple syrup or agave can work if you’re out of honey.

Olive Oil: Acts as a base for the seasoning and helps coat the shrimp evenly. You can also use avocado oil or melted butter for added richness.

Smoked Paprika & Garlic Powder: These spices layer on smoky, savory depth. Smoked paprika reinforces the bacon’s flavor while garlic adds a pungent warmth. Cayenne can be added for heat.

Lemon: A final squeeze cuts through the fat and brightens the dish. Fresh lemon juice also helps balance the honey glaze.

Toothpicks: Essential for holding the bacon in place while cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut each slice of bacon lengthwise so you end up with thin strips that are just the right size for wrapping shrimp. Place these on a baking sheet and bake for 6–8 minutes. You’re not cooking them fully yet—just enough to render some fat and jumpstart crispiness.

Step 2 While the bacon is in the oven, combine olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this mixture, making sure every shrimp is evenly coated. Let them marinate for 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors soak in.

Step 3 Remove the bacon from the oven and blot any excess grease with paper towels. Don’t skip this step—it keeps the bacon from being soggy later. Switch your oven to broil and line a clean baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 4 Starting at the thicker end of each shrimp, wrap a strip of bacon around it and secure it with a toothpick through the overlapping ends. Place each wrapped shrimp on the baking sheet, spacing them out to allow for even cooking.

Step 5 Broil the shrimp for 4–6 minutes, flipping the pan or shrimp halfway through for even browning. You’re looking for crispy bacon and opaque shrimp that curl slightly. If the bacon browns too fast, lower the oven rack.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If your shrimp turn rubbery, they’re likely overcooked—watch them closely under the broiler. If bacon isn’t crisping, make sure it was par-cooked well enough and that you’re using center-cut, not thick-cut. Also, soak your toothpicks in water for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning in the oven.

To prep faster, get your bacon cooked and shrimp marinated ahead of time. You can assemble everything and refrigerate up to 4 hours before broiling. A silicone brush is great for glazing, but a spoon works too.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your bacon-wrapped shrimp on a large platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish. For dips, go with a tangy cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or even lemon butter.

As sides, consider a crisp green salad, grilled asparagus, or garlic mashed cauliflower to keep it light and balanced. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to regain crispiness.

Conclusion

This easy sheet pan dinner idea makes for an unforgettable appetizer or quick and healthy meal any night of the week. Whether you’re just starting out in the kitchen or looking to expand your hosting skills, this lemon herb chicken recipe—wait, bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe—will earn a permanent place in your cooking rotation.

If you try it out, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you tweak the spices? Pair it with something special? Share your tips and results in the comments so we can all learn together!

FAQ About Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

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