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This bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is the ultimate appetizer for any occasion when you want to impress without stress. Juicy extralarge shrimp get enveloped in thincut bacon that’s parcooked just right to achieve perfect crispness. A bold glaze of pure maple syrup mixed with lively Sriracha adds a balanced sweet and spicy punch. Each bite offers a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and zesty flavors accented by fresh lemon and scallions. This dish turns simple ingredients into something special that guests can’t stop talking about.
I first made this for a family gathering and was amazed when everyone kept asking for more. Now it’s my go to for entertaining because it’s always a hit.
Ingredients
- Extra large shrimp: fresh or properly thawed shrimp make a big difference in texture and flavor
- Thincut bacon: cooks faster and crisps beautifully around the shrimp thin slices also let the glaze soak in well
- Maple syrup: pure maple syrup brings rich sweetness that balances the heat
- Sriracha hot chili sauce: adds a punch of spice and depth to the glaze Korean Gochujang works too if you want to try something different
- Fine sea salt: seasons the shrimp and improves their texture before cooking
- Wooden skewers: soaked in water to prevent burning and keep the bacon securely wrapped
- Additional garnishes: lemon wedges and chopped scallions bring freshness to the finished dish
Instructions
- Prep the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to catch bacon drippings and make cleanup easier.
- ParBake the Bacon:
- Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for around ten minutes until the bacon starts to brown at the edges but remains flexible. This renders some fat and prepares the bacon for crisping later. Remove bacon and transfer to paper towels to drain excess fat.
- Season and Rinse the Shrimp:
- Place shrimp in a colander. Toss with a quarter teaspoon of fine sea salt and let rest for one minute. Then rinse thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. This firms up the shrimp’s texture and ensures even cooking.
- Make the Maple Sriracha Glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of pure maple syrup with one tablespoon of Sriracha hot chili sauce. Stir until you have a smooth, spicy sweet glaze.
- Glaze and Cut the Bacon:
- Brush both sides of each par baked bacon slice lightly with the maple Sriracha glaze. Cut each slice in half crosswise to create twenty halfstrips.
- Wrap the Shrimp:
- Wrap each shrimp tightly with a halfstrip of glazed bacon. Secure by pushing a soaked wooden skewer or toothpick through to hold the bacon in place. Arrange them spaced out on the baking sheet.
- Bake and Broil the Shrimp:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for five minutes. Then switch the oven setting to broil and broil for four to six minutes. Turn the shrimp once halfway through to crisp all sides evenly. You want the bacon caramelized and crispy while shrimp stays tender and juicy.
- Serve:
- Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the shrimp and sprinkle chopped scallions on top for a bright, fresh contrast to the rich bacon and glaze.
I still recall serving these at a holiday party and how quickly they disappeared.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on a baking sheet in a 375 degrees Fahrenheit oven for five to seven minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving since it makes the bacon soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Sriracha, Korean Gochujang is a terrific alternative offering similar heat with a unique flavor. Regular bacon works but may take longer to crisp. Maple syrup can be swapped for honey with a slightly different sweetness profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with lemon wedges and scallions as described. These shrimp also pair beautifully with garlicky butter noodles or a crisp green salad if you want to turn this appetizer into a light meal.
These bacon wrapped shrimp come together quickly and deliver bold sweet and spicy flavors. Serve warm with lemon wedges and scallions.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → What type of shrimp works best for this dish?
Extra-large shrimp with shells removed but tails left on provide the best texture and taste.
- → Why is the bacon par-cooked before wrapping?
Par-cooking renders fat and softens the bacon so it crisps perfectly during baking without overcooking the shrimp.
- → How does the maple syrup and Sriracha glaze affect flavor?
The glaze balances sweet and spicy flavors, enhancing the smoky bacon and tender shrimp combination.
- → Can other skewers be used instead of toothpicks?
Yes, metal skewers work well; wooden skewers should be soaked to prevent burning during broiling.
- → What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore bacon crispiness while keeping shrimp juicy. Avoid microwaving.
- → Are there alternatives to Sriracha in the glaze?
Gochujang is a good substitute, offering a similar spicy and flavorful profile.