Imagine the aroma of sizzling bacon blending with the succulent taste of fresh shrimp; this is the magic of bacon-wrapped shrimp kabobs. These kabobs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy, this dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
One summer, my family decided to throw a backyard party, and I was tasked with creating the appetizers. As a fan of both shrimp and bacon, I decided to experiment. The result was an instant hit. The kabobs disappeared within minutes as our guests showered compliments. That moment turned these kabobs into a family tradition for every gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bacon-wrapped shrimp kabobs are not just ordinary appetizers. They combine the savory taste of bacon with the light sweetness of shrimp for a harmonic flavor. The dish is incredibly versatile—perfect for parties, dinner starters, or even just a treat for yourself. Easy to make and requiring only a few ingredients, these kabobs are as practical as they are delicious. Plus, they cook quickly, making them ideal for quick gatherings.
Ingredients Notes
To make the best bacon-wrapped shrimp kabobs, it’s important to choose large shrimp that are peeled and deveined for easy eating. Opt for thin-cut bacon, which wraps easily around the shrimp and crisps up nicely. For those who like a bit of spice, consider adding some cayenne pepper or paprika to the marinade.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of spices. Add shrimp to the bowl and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
Step 3
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Cut the bacon slices into halves, wrap each shrimp with bacon, and secure with skewers. Thread about three to four bacon-wrapped shrimp onto each skewer.
Step 4
Place the kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp turns opaque.
Step 5
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them cool for a moment. Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in an oven at 350°F for about 5–10 minutes. If you choose to freeze, wrap each kabob in foil and place it in a freezer bag. They can last up to a month, but make sure to reheat them thoroughly before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding pineapple chunks or cherry tomatoes between the shrimp on skewers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon. For those adhering to keto, double up on bacon while omitting sugary marinades. Vegetarians can replace shrimp with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These kabobs are perfect for any cookout or appetizer platter. Pair them with a fresh salad, some grilled corn, or a spicy dipping sauce to enhance their flavor. The kabobs also work great as a side dish for steak or chicken, bringing variety to your barbecue spread. Serve them with a chilled white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating and cooking. This will ensure they absorb the flavors evenly and cook through without releasing too much water on the grill.
What if I don’t have a grill? No grill, no problem! You can use an oven broiler or an indoor grill pan. Just set your broiler to high and place the kabobs about 6 inches from the heat source, turning occasionally to get that nice char.
How can I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during grilling? To keep bacon snugly wrapped, secure both ends of the bacon with the skewer, piercing through the shrimp as well. Another tip is to use thin-cut bacon which tends to stick better to itself during cooking.
Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Kabobs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 slices bacon cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of bacon and thread onto skewers.
- Brush the shrimp kabobs with the olive oil and spice mixture.
- Grill the kabobs for 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp is opaque and bacon is crispy.
