Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is like the all-star player of the appetizer game, especially when the Super Bowl rolls around. Just imagine crispy, salty bacon enveloping sweet, tender shrimp—it’s a flavor combination that’s basically a match made in culinary heaven. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a Super Bowl party at my friend Sarah’s house. I whipped up a batch just in time for the halftime show, and let me tell you, they disappeared faster than a touchdown.
What I love most about these little bites of bliss is how easy they are to prepare! Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something delicious on game day, these shrimp will win over the hearts of your guests (and their taste buds). Plus, you get that satisfying sizzle and aroma coming from the oven as they cook. Seriously, if you have a crowd of hungry football fans, these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp will be the highlight of the evening.
What’s in Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are the star of the show here. I prefer using large, deveined, and peeled shrimp for this recipe. My go-to is wild-caught shrimp because they tend to have better flavor and texture.
Bacon: The essential element that wraps around our shrimp! I like using thick-cut bacon for an extra meaty bite and more crispiness, but regular will do just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the bacon crisp up beautifully in the oven, and it also adds a touch of flavor. You could substitute with avocado oil if you prefer.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle of garlic powder elevates the taste to a whole new level! If you’re a garlic lover like me, you might want to add an extra pinch.
Paprika: This will add a warm, smoky flavor that really complements the shrimp and bacon beautifully. I like using smoked paprika, but regular paprika works well too!
Is Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest—those delightful little bacon-wrapped treasures are certainly not the lightest choice. However, they do have some redeeming qualities when consumed in moderation!
Shrimp: These little ocean gems are a fantastic source of lean protein, and they’re packing some serious nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Plus, shrimp are low in calories, so they can fit nicely in a balanced diet.
Bacon: Yes, it’s delicious, but bacon is high in saturated fats and sodium, so it’s wise to enjoy it every now and then. Look for nitrate-free bacon options if you’re conscious about those additives.
All in all, enjoy these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp during your Super Bowl celebrations or any other fun gathering, just be mindful of serving sizes!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 20-25 shrimp)
– 10 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: toothpicks for securing
*Serves: Approx. 10-12 as an appetizer*
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon become extra crispy!
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is well coated.
3. Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Make sure to cover most of the shrimp for maximum flavor!
4. Place the wrapped shrimp on the wire rack, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
5. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. You might want to flip them halfway to get an even crispiness!
6. Serve them hot, and enjoy the happy sounds of munching from your friends and family!
Game Day Secrets to Bacon-Wrapped Happiness!
– For added flavor, try marinating the shrimp in a little lemon juice and zest before wrapping them.
– Experiment with different seasonings by adding a pinch of chili powder or cumin for a little kick!
– If you want a touch of sweetness, try drizzling the assembled shrimp with a little maple syrup just before baking. It adds a beautiful caramelization!
– Serve your bacon-wrapped delights with a dipping sauce—either a spicy aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce will do wonders!
I can’t tell you how much I hope you give these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp a try for your next Super Bowl party! They’re delicious, easy to make, and sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience with me; I would love to hear how it went! Enjoy the game day festivities, folks!