Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! Game day just isn’t complete without a mouthwatering snack to keep your energy up while cheering for your favorite team, and that’s where my Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp comes in. These delightful little bites are a little piece of heaven! I remember the first time I made them; it was during a football Game Day party at my place. The laughter and cheers echoed through the room, but the real MVP of the day was undeniably the tray of bacon-wrapped shrimp. The perfect combination of crispy, smoky bacon and juicy, tender shrimp was a game-changer!
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Even if you’re a kitchen novice, I promise you can whip these up and impress your friends. Plus, they’re just so darn delicious; you might find yourself making them for every occasion, not just game day. So, grab your apron and get ready for some serious munching!
What’s in Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Shrimp: The star of the show! You’ll want to use large shrimp (size 16-20 work great). I prefer deveined, tail-on shrimp for that lovely presentation and ease of eating.
Bacon: When it comes to bacon, go for a good-quality thick-cut variety. The smokiness adds a wonderful flavor, and the thickness ensures that it wraps snugly around the shrimp for the best texture.
Spices: A dash of garlic powder and paprika will elevate the flavor profile. Garlic powder brings a savory depth, while paprika adds a mild smokiness.
Maple Syrup or Honey (optional): I’m a big fan of drizzling a bit of maple syrup on the finished product; it adds a sweet contrast to the salty bacon. If you prefer, honey works just as well!
Is Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Good for You?
Now, while bacon-wrapped shrimp are undeniably delicious, let’s chat about health.
Shrimp: Packed with protein, shrimp is low in calories and rich in nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. It’s always a fabulous choice for a healthy snack.
Bacon: While bacon does provide a hit of flavor and satisfaction, let’s be honest—it’s high in saturated fat and sodium. Moderation is key! Using thick-cut bacon can also help by using less overall.
The combination of these ingredients yields a flavorful bite, but remember to balance it with other lighter options during your game day feast!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound thick-cut bacon
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Maple syrup or honey, for drizzling (optional)
– Serves: Approximately 4-6 as an appetizer
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your shrimp cook evenly and the bacon crisps up beautifully.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This keeps them from steaming in the oven.
3. Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. It depends on its thickness, but half usually works perfectly.
4. Take a shrimp, wrap the bacon around it, and secure it with a toothpick. It’s like giving the shrimp a cozy little blanket of bacon goodness!
5. In a bowl, mix the garlic powder and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the bacon-wrapped shrimp.
6. Place the shrimp on a lined baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out (we want that bacon to crisp, not steam!).
7. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through (they should be pink and opaque).
8. If using, drizzle with maple syrup or honey during the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Oh, the aroma is absolutely irresistible!
9. Remove them from the oven and let them rest for a minute before serving.
Get Creative with Your Shrimp!
– Want to spice things up? Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for some heat!
– For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated cheese on the shrimp during the last few minutes of baking for a fun, cheesy finish.
– Serve these beauties with a side of cocktail sauce or a spicy remoulade for dipping.
I can’t express how excited I am for you to try these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp! They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Just picture it: a bunch of friends, a game on the screen, and plates piled high with these scrumptious treats. I’d love to hear how yours turned out, so don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking, and may your team score big!