Bacon wrapped shrimp is one of those crowd-pleasing appetizers that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The sweet, tender shrimp wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon make for a bite-sized treat that’s equally at home at a summer barbecue, a fancy dinner party, or a casual game day gathering.
Whether you’re hosting guests or cooking for two, bacon wrapped shrimp is a quick, versatile recipe that always impresses. In this article, you’ll learn how to make it perfectly every time—with detailed cooking methods, flavor variations, tips, serving ideas, and more.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes with only a few ingredients.
Incredible Flavor – Sweet shrimp + salty bacon = a flavor match made in heaven.
Customizable – Add seasonings, spices, or glazes to make it your own.
Great for Any Occasion – Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknights.
Multiple Cooking Methods – Grill, bake, air fry, or broil depending on your setup.
What Is Bacon Wrapped Shrimp?
Bacon wrapped shrimp is a simple dish where shrimp are wrapped in bacon and cooked until the shrimp are juicy and the bacon is crispy. The textures and flavors balance beautifully: the shrimp remains plump and tender while the bacon adds crunch and saltiness.
It’s often seasoned or brushed with sauces—such as honey glaze, BBQ, or garlic butter—making it easy to adapt for different palates and occasions.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
1 pound large or jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
10 slices bacon, cut in half
Salt and pepper, to taste
Toothpicks (soaked in water for 10–15 minutes)
Optional Seasonings:
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Optional Glaze:
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce or Dijon mustard
Juice of ½ lemon
1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional)
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4–6 people (about 20–24 pieces)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Peel and devein shrimp, leaving the tail on for presentation.
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
Step 2: Pre-Cook the Bacon
Partially cook bacon slices (about 3–4 minutes) so they’re still soft and flexible but starting to render fat.
Drain on paper towels. This step ensures the bacon crisps without overcooking the shrimp.
Step 3: Wrap & Secure
Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon.
Secure with a soaked toothpick through the shrimp and bacon seam.
Step 4: Choose a Cooking Method
Below are four reliable options.
Oven-Baked Method
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top (for even crisping).
Arrange shrimp in a single layer.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy and shrimp are opaque.
Optionally, brush with glaze and broil for 1–2 minutes for a sticky finish.
Air Fryer Method
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Lightly grease the basket.
Place bacon wrapped shrimp in a single layer.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping once halfway.
Grill Method
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Oil grates well to prevent sticking.
Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, turning carefully, until bacon is crisp and shrimp are cooked.
Broiler Method
Preheat broiler to high.
Arrange shrimp on a broiler-safe pan with a rack.
Broil for 6–8 minutes, turning once, until bacon is browned and shrimp are cooked through.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Cajun
Toss shrimp in Cajun seasoning before wrapping for a Southern twist.
Sweet & Smoky
Brush with maple syrup or brown sugar glaze just before baking.
Garlic Herb
Sprinkle with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon zest.
Teriyaki Style
Marinate shrimp in teriyaki sauce for 15 minutes before wrapping.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
These dipping sauces pair beautifully with bacon wrapped shrimp:
Garlic butter
Ranch or chipotle ranch
Sweet chili sauce
Spicy mayo
Lemon aioli
BBQ sauce
Tips for Success
Use jumbo or large shrimp so they don’t overcook before the bacon crisps.
Partially cook bacon beforehand—it’s the key to perfect texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer. Space them out for even cooking.
Turn halfway through for uniform browning.
Use toothpicks soaked in water to prevent burning in the oven or on the grill.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make Ahead
Assemble bacon wrapped shrimp a day in advance and refrigerate, covered.
Add glaze or sauce just before cooking.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Freezing
Freeze wrapped (uncooked) shrimp on a tray.
Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding extra time.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
As an Appetizer
Cocktail parties: Serve on skewers or toothpicks with dips.
Holiday spreads: Place alongside meatballs, cheese trays, or sliders.
As a Main Course
Serve over rice, salad, or pasta for a light meal.
Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled corn.
Drinks to Pair
White wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Sparkling wine: Champagne or Prosecco
Cocktails: Margarita, Moscow Mule, or a light lager
Nutritional Overview (Per Piece, Approximate)
Calories: 90
Protein: 6g
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
This dish is low-carb, gluten-free, and fits keto-friendly plans—especially when served without sweet sauces.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before using.
What shrimp size is best?
Use large (26/30 count) or jumbo (21/25 count) shrimp for best results.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, though it won’t crisp quite the same. Pre-cook it slightly before wrapping.
Can I bake without a rack?
Yes, just turn the shrimp halfway and drain excess grease after cooking.
How do I know when shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they’re opaque and pink, with a firm but tender texture.
Conclusion
Bacon wrapped shrimp is a no-fail appetizer that feels fancy but is easy enough for any night of the week. The juicy, savory, and slightly smoky bites are endlessly customizable and always a hit with guests.
With a short ingredient list, multiple ways to cook, and plenty of variation potential, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a cookout, or just want something special for yourself—bacon wrapped shrimp is the answer.