Few things bring people together like delicious, bacon-wrapped appetizers. Crispy and packed with flavor, they're the perfect addition to family dinners, game-day spreads or even holiday gatherings. Whether you're looking for classic fan favorites or creative new bites, read on to explore bacon-wrapped appetizer recipe ideas and expert tips for the tastiest creations.
The versatility and appeal of bacon appetizers
There's something undeniably appealing about bacon-wrapped delights. That smoky, savory flavor elevates even the most basic appetizers, making them instantly irresistible. And the best part? They're incredibly versatile! From sweet dates and creamy cheeses to succulent shrimp and crisp vegetables, bacon wraps them all with delicious results.
It adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering without requiring complicated preparations. Whether you're throwing a party or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight treat, these easy-to-make appetizers are guaranteed crowd-pleasers — quick, delicious and perfect for sharing!
5 must-try bacon-wrapped appetizers for every taste
If you're on the hunt for your next easy appetizer with crispy bacon, look no further! We've rounded up some of our favorite bacon appetizer recipes, guaranteed to impress your friends and family at any gathering:
Recipe 1: Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Our crispy and savory Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus recipe is perfect for a side dish or appetizer the whole family will love. Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon complements the tender asparagus, while a drizzle of honey mustard adds a sweet and tangy finish. Quick to prepare and air-fried to perfection, this dish is an easy way to get everyone — even picky eaters — to enjoy their greens in a delicious new way!
Recipe 2: Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños
This Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños recipe offers a delightful blend of smoky, spicy and creamy flavors. Halved jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Bacon are grilled to perfection. And a chipotle aioli on the side gives it a tangy, smoky kick. It's a fun, flavorful bacon appetizer that's sure to be a hit at get-togethers!
Recipe 3: Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots
You can't go wrong with a Bacon-Wrapped Tater Tots recipe — it's a simple yet irresistible treat! Crispy Hatfield® Cherrywood Smoked Bacon wraps around golden tater tots, creating a perfect bite for both kids and adults. After a quick bake, you'll have a delicious, savory appetizer that's sure to disappear fast. It's an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser, ideal for casual gatherings or your next game day.
Recipe 4: Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Imagine sweet, chewy dates with tangy blue cheese, all wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon; that's the magic of this Bacon-Wrapped Dates recipe! With only three ingredients and a short bake time, you get a surefire hit. Add a touch of flaky sea salt, and you'll have everyone asking for more.
Recipe 5: Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
For an easy appetizer that's both fun and flavorful, try this recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp. Tender shrimp, seasoned with smoky paprika and garlic, gets a crispy, savory hug from each bacon slice, while a touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness. Baked or broiled until golden, they're easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
If you're ready to dive in, head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Tips for perfecting appetizers with bacon
Making easy bacon appetizers for the whole family? Discover expert tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- Choose the right bacon cut: For bacon-wrapped bites, a classic savory bacon choice, like Hatfield® Applewood Smoked Bacon, is always a winner — it crisps quickly and wraps your fillings just right. Or, if you crave something sweeter, Hatfield® Maple Brown Sugar Bacon adds a delicious twist. Just remember, thick-cut bacon needs a little pre-cooking to ensure it crisps up perfectly alongside your fillings.
- Pre-cook bacon: Quickly pre-cooking your bacon can be a good place to start — especially if you're using thick-cut bacon. This lets the bacon start crisping and renders some fat, ensuring everything finishes cooking at the same time and preventing overcooked fillings.
- Secure your bacon wrap: For even cooking, be sure to wrap your bacon tightly around the filling. A snug fit keeps your ingredients from unraveling for delicious, crispy bacon every time.
- Use toothpicks and skewers: Don't skip the toothpicks or skewers! They're essential for keeping your bacon wraps in place and making sure the appetizers look great once they're ready to serve.
- Experiment with seasonings and sauces: Don't be afraid to get creative with flavors! A drizzle of honey, BBQ sauce or hot sauce can take your appetizer to the next level. Or, for that perfect final touch, try a sprinkle of spices or a tangy glaze.
- Adjust your cook time: Different fillings cook at different rates, so keep an eye on the clock! For instance, shrimp cooks fast while dates need a bit more time. Make sure every ingredient is cooked through for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Bacon-wrapped appetizers FAQs
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to consider before getting started:
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes! Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative, but keep in mind that it may not render as much fat or crisp up quite the same way as pork bacon. To compensate, consider cooking it at a slightly higher temperature or for a bit longer. Also, make sure to wrap it tightly to help it hold its shape.
How do I prepare bacon appetizer recipes ahead of time?
To prep bacon-wrapped appetizers ahead of time, simply wrap the bacon around your fillings and secure them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. When you're ready to serve, bake or grill them according to the recipe. If you're using thick cut bacon, par-bake it before wrapping and then finish the cooking process right before serving.
What dipping sauces pair well with bacon-wrapped appetizers?
The perfect dipping sauce all depends on the appetizer! For spicy jalapeño poppers, a cool ranch or creamy avocado dip is ideal, while sweet dates pair well with a balsamic glaze and shrimp loves a tangy cocktail sauce. When in doubt, a smoky BBQ sauce or a chipotle aioli complements most bacon-wrapped treats.
What sides pair well with bacon appetizers?
The best sides for bacon-wrapped appetizers balance the richness of the bacon. For a main course, light and refreshing options like a crisp arugula salad, grilled asparagus or a chilled pasta salad work well. If serving as appetizers, opt for complementary flavors and textures. A fruit and cheese platter adds sweetness and variety, while dips like guacamole or spinach artichoke dip offer a creamy contrast.
Should I bake or grill bacon-wrapped appetizers?
Both baking and grilling work great! Baking offers consistent heat and is ideal for larger batches. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and is better for cooking when you're short on time. Choose the method that best suits your preferred ingredients and schedule.
What's the best way to store leftover bacon-wrapped appetizers?
Store leftover bacon-wrapped appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness, but be mindful that this may affect the texture of certain fillings.
The best appetizers start with high-quality bacon
Versatile, flavorful and easy-to-prepare bacon-wrapped appetizers are ideal for any gathering. But the best results hinge on quality ingredients — especially the bacon itself.
To elevate your next meal, choose high-quality bacon from trusted providers like Hatfield. Expertly pre-seasoned pork products not only enhance the taste of your favorite dishes but also ensure a safe and delicious experience for your loved ones. With Hatfield, you can create memorable moments around the table, knowing you're serving the very best.
Ready to get started? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
