<p; font-weight:="" bold"="">Craving a dish that's both savory and satisfying? Look no further than bacon-wrapped shrimp — a delicious combination of smoky bacon and succulent shrimp. Whether it's a family dinner or a special event, this versatile recipe is easy to make at home.
Dive into our step-by-step guide, packed with tips and tricks for the best results every time.
Why bacon-wrapped shrimp is a crowd-pleasing choice for any family meal
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a game-changer for family meals. The irresistible combo of crispy bacon and sweet, juicy shrimp is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. Versatile enough to be an appetizer, main course or snack, this dish is easily customized to suit your loved ones' preferences. And the best part? It's just as good the next day for lunch or a quick snack.
Easy steps to make bacon-wrapped shrimp
Serves: 4-6
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15-20 min
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Bacon, halved crosswise.
- 1 lb shrimp, cleaned, peeled and deveined with the tails on.
- 4 Tbs. salted butter, melted.
- ¼ cup brown sugar.
- ¼ tsp. salt.
- ¼ tsp. black pepper.
- 1 cup soy sauce.
- ¼ cup honey.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced.
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced.
- Sriracha mayonnaise, for dipping (optional).
Steps to bring an easy bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe to life
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for easier handling. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Step 2: Cut eight slices of smoked bacon in half crosswise to make 16 smaller pieces. Take a raw shrimp and wrap it with a bacon slice, starting at one end. Secure it with a toothpick if needed. Alternatively, you can thread a row of shrimp onto a wooden skewer to keep them in place. Repeat this process for all of your remaining shrimp.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, salt and black pepper. Mix well. Then, brush this seasoning and butter mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped shrimp, so each piece is well-coated.
- Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey and minced garlic cloves. Pour this marinade over the seasoned shrimp and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. Turn the shrimp halfway through to ensure even marination.
- Step 5: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper, and arrange the marinated shrimp on the baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the shrimp halfway through so that both sides cook evenly and the bacon becomes crispy.
- Step 6: Once fully cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle sliced green onions over the shrimp for a fresh garnish. Serve the bacon-wrapped shrimp hot, alongside a side of Sriracha mayonnaise for dipping, if desired.
If you're ready to jump in, you can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
Essential tips for delicious bacon shrimp every time
Ready to make bacon-wrapped shrimp the star of your next family meal? Follow these essential tips and tricks so every bite is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor:
- Choose the right shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp to ensure a juicy texture and robust flavor. Make sure to generously season the shrimp before wrapping them to boost their natural sweetness.
- Pre-cook the bacon: You might lightly cook the bacon before wrapping it around the shrimp. That way, the bacon crisps up perfectly without overcooking the shrimp.
- Secure with toothpicks or a shrimp skewer: Use toothpicks or thread the shrimp onto a wooden skewer to keep each bacon strip in place while cooking.
- Cook at the right temperature: Bake the shrimp at 400°F for the ideal balance of crispy bacon and tender shrimp. This temperature ensures even cooking and a satisfying crunch.
- Experiment with flavors: Spice things up by brushing your shrimp with different marinades or seasonings like honey, soy sauce or even a touch of heat. You can experiment to find your family's favorite!
- Serve with a complementary dipping sauce: Elevate your dish with a tasty dipping sauce such as Sriracha mayo, garlic aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce.
Answering your bacon-wrapped shrimp FAQs
Take a closer look at the following FAQs and find the answers you need to make your bacon-wrapped shrimp a hit every time:
How do I prevent the shrimp from being overcooked?
To avoid overcooking, start by using large, fresh shrimp and pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping. This helps the bacon crisp up without leaving the shrimp undercooked. When baking, be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking, and keep an eye on them toward the end; shrimp should be opaque and firm but not dry.
What's the best way to season the shrimp?
Seasoning is key to enhancing the shrimp's natural flavor. Pat them dry and season generously before wrapping them in bacon. You can also add a touch of garlic powder, paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative — seasonings can make a big difference!
Can I customize the flavors of bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Absolutely! Bacon-wrapped shrimp are easy to customize to suit your family's taste preferences. Try brushing the shrimp with marinades like honey, soy sauce or spicy Sriracha before baking. You can also experiment with different spices or herbs, such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs, to create your own signature flavor.
Can I prepare bacon-wrapped shrimp ahead of time?
You sure can! To prep bacon-wrapped shrimp in advance, assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For the best results, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
What's the best way to reheat leftover bacon shrimp?
Reheat leftover bacon-wrapped shrimp in an oven at 350°F for about five to 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the bacon soggy and the shrimp rubbery.
What can I serve with bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Try serving bacon-wrapped shrimp with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables or a light rice dish. You can also consider pairing them with creamy mashed potatoes, a tangy coleslaw or buttery garlic bread. For a more decadent touch, serve them with a side of mac and cheese or a zesty quinoa salad.
Elevate family meals with Hatfield's trusted flavor
Bacon-wrapped shrimp is a delicious family favorite that brings flavor and fun to any meal. And by choosing Hatfield, you're opting for high-quality pork that enhances your dishes and supports the well-being of your loved ones. Elevate your family meals with Hatfield's trusted flavor and enjoy every moment around the table together.
