Get ready to transform your ordinary appetizer game into an extraordinary culinary experience! These Sweet and Spicy Bacon Wrapped Shrimp are not just a recipe—they're a mouthwatering journey that combines the irresistible crispiness of bacon with the succulent tenderness of shrimp, all dressed up in a tantalizing blend of sweet brown sugar and fiery spices. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, looking for a show-stopping appetizer, or simply craving something that will make your palate sing, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and the bacon will become crispy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. This will create a sweet and spicy rub for the shrimp.
- Take the peeled and deveined shrimp and toss them in the bowl with the spice mixture. Make sure each shrimp is well coated with the sweet and spicy rub.
- Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, starting from the tail and spiraling towards the head. Ensure that the shrimp is fully covered by the bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the shrimp in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon starts to render its fat and becomes slightly crispy.
- Once the shrimp are nicely browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the shrimp cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove any toothpicks if used.
- Serve the sweet and spicy bacon-wrapped shrimp warm. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a main dish. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Tips
- Choose large shrimp for the best presentation and easier wrapping
- Par-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping to ensure extra crispiness
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it doesn't stay in place
- Don't overcrowd the skillet to achieve perfect browning
- Let shrimp rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture
- Experiment with different spice combinations to customize heat level
- Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture
- Consider serving with a cool dipping sauce to balance the spicy-sweet profile
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 387kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 135mg
