Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that blends the savory, smoky flavor of crispy bacon with tender, juicy shrimp marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, honey, garlic, and spices. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a holiday gathering, or looking for a gourmet starter, these broiled shrimp are a simple yet elegant solution that delivers on taste and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and full of bold flavor. The bacon adds a smoky, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, while the marinade enhances each bite with sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s ideal for entertaining or a special weeknight treat. Serve them with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce for a sophisticated finish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound center-cut bacon (not thick-cut)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 pound raw extra-jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 per pound), peeled and deveined, tails left on
Toothpicks
Lemon wedges or dipping sauce (optional)

directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange a rack in the center position.
Prepare the bacon: Cut the bacon slices lengthwise to create thin strips (one for each shrimp). Lay in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 6–8 minutes until the fat has rendered but bacon remains pliable.
Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Add the shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly.
Drain the bacon: Transfer the partially cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Discard excess grease from the baking sheet and line it with parchment paper.
Wrap the shrimp: Wrap each marinated shrimp with a bacon strip, starting at the thicker end and ending near the tail. Secure with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Broil the shrimp: Turn the oven to broil. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook for 4–6 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are opaque and fully cooked.
Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce, such as lemon butter or a spicy aioli.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 (about 16–20 shrimp)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180–220 kcal per serving (depending on portion size and sauce used)

Variations

Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
Herbaceous twist: Include chopped fresh rosemary or thyme in the olive oil marinade.
Maple glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
Grill option: Grill wrapped shrimp over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side for a charred flavor.
Add pineapple: Insert a small pineapple chunk inside the wrap for a tropical flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 6–8 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the bacon.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and wrapping.

What size shrimp should I use?

Extra-jumbo (16–20 per pound) are ideal. They’re large enough to hold the bacon and cook evenly without drying out.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prep and wrap the shrimp ahead of time, then refrigerate. Broil just before serving for best results.

Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?

Yes. Partially cooking the bacon ensures it crisps up without overcooking the shrimp.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Lemon garlic butter, spicy aioli, chipotle mayo, or even barbecue sauce work beautifully.

Can I cook these on a grill?

Yes, grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until bacon is crisp and shrimp are cooked.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

What can I serve with bacon-wrapped shrimp?

Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Is thick-cut bacon okay?

No, thick-cut bacon takes longer to cook and won’t crisp up properly before the shrimp overcooks.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Use large shrimp, pre-cook the bacon, and broil quickly—just 4–6 minutes total—to keep everything perfectly cooked.

Conclusion

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is an elegant yet simple dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. With crispy bacon, tender shrimp, and a sweet and smoky marinade, this appetizer is a surefire hit at any gathering. Serve with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce of your choice, and enjoy the perfect bite every time.