Introduction
When it comes to appetizers that impress, few dishes stand out like bacon-wrapped shrimp. This delightful combination brings together the succulent taste of shrimp and the savory richness of bacon, all enhanced by a sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these bacon-wrapped shrimp are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp (about 20), cleaned, peeled, and deveined
7 thick slices of bacon, cut into thirds
4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tablespoon chipotle powder (adjust to taste)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes baking, 1-2 minutes broiling
Total Time
Approximately 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Enjoy this delectable dish as a starter or even a main course. The blend of flavors will please anyone who tries it!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
Step 2: Wrap the Shrimp
Take each cleaned, peeled, and deveined shrimp and wrap it with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to hold it in place. Arrange the wrapped shrimp on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and chipotle powder. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Brush the Shrimp
Using a brush, coat each bacon-wrapped shrimp generously with about two-thirds of the butter mixture, making sure to cover the bacon well.
Step 5: Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp for 15 minutes, allowing the bacon to crisp and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Broil the Shrimp
After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Change the oven setting to broil. Brush the shrimp with the remaining butter mixture for added flavor.
Step 7: Broil Until Bubbly
Return the baking sheet to the oven and broil the shrimp for 1-2 minutes, watching closely until they are bubbly and the bacon is crispy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped shrimp!
Notes
Note 1: Adjusting Heat
If you prefer less heat, consider reducing the amount of chipotle powder or omitting it entirely. For more spice, feel free to add more chipotle powder to taste.
Note 2: Toothpick Safety
Remember to remove the toothpicks from the shrimp before serving to avoid any choking hazards.
Note 3: Cooking Variation
These shrimp can also be grilled for a smoky flavor. Just ensure the bacon is cooked through and the shrimp is opaque. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F before placing the shrimp inside. This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving the desired texture.
Wrapping Shrimp
Wrap each cleaned and deveined shrimp with a third of a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place during cooking. This method adds flavor and moisture to the shrimp.
Preparing the Butter Mixture
Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and chipotle powder in a bowl. Stir until well blended. This mixture will enhance the flavor profile of the dish and caramelize nicely during baking.
Brushing the Shrimp
Generously brush two-thirds of the butter mixture over the bacon-wrapped shrimp before baking. This step ensures the shrimp are coated in flavor from the start.
Broiling for Finish
After baking, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. This technique adds a nice, bubbly finish and crispiness to the bacon, enhancing the overall dish presentation and texture.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes, other seafood like scallops or fish can be used, but cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to use toothpicks for securing the bacon?
While toothpicks help hold the bacon in place, you can omit them if you prefer. Just be cautious while handling the shrimp.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the amount of chipotle powder based on your preferred spice level.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
What can I serve with bacon-wrapped shrimp?
These shrimp pair well with salads, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, enhanced by the smoky heat of chipotle. With a crispy bacon exterior and juicy shrimp inside, it’s a perfect appetizer or main dish that is sure to impress your guests. This dish not only showcases the perfect balance of textures but also highlights the adaptability of simple ingredients to create extraordinary meals.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Wrap asparagus spears in bacon and grill them for a smoky, savory side dish that pairs well with any protein.
Stuffed Avocado with Shrimp and Bacon
Combine cooked shrimp and crispy bacon with diced avocado, lime juice, and spices for a refreshing salad or appetizer.
Candied Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeños
Stuff jalapeño halves with cream cheese, wrap in bacon, and glaze with brown sugar for a sweet and spicy treat.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Use the same technique with bite-sized pieces of chicken breast, adding a chipotle glaze for an exciting twist.
Maple Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Toss Brussels sprouts in maple syrup, wrap them in bacon, and roast for a delicious fall-inspired side dish.
