This bacon-wrapped shrimp appetizer is perfect for gatherings—holidays, game days, or any time you want a tasty snack. Simple to prepare in an air fryer or oven, these bites deliver crisp bacon and juicy shrimp every time.
These bacon-wrapped shrimp are a crowd-pleaser that look elegant but are straightforward to make. The bacon crisps up while the shrimp stay tender, creating a flavorful contrast that works well as an appetizer for a party or a special snack at home.
Using an air fryer speeds up the process and produces reliably crispy bacon without excess grease. It’s a convenient option when you want fast results and less added fat. If you prefer the oven, the recipe adapts easily for baking and is ideal for cooking larger batches.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Appetizer
- Versatile: Great for parties, potlucks, or casual entertaining—easy to pick up and hard to resist.
- Effortless: Minimal prep and short cook time mean you can spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.
- Air Fryer Friendly: The air fryer yields a crispy finish with quick cooking and less oil.
Ingredients Needed
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
- Large shrimp: Use large, peeled and deveined shrimp for a satisfying bite.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon wraps easily and crisps quickly.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the garlic and parsley adhere.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a bright, savory kick.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh, herbal note.
- Salt: A small pinch to enhance the flavors.
- Toothpicks: Soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning and secure the bacon.
How To Make Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick.
- Mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Brush the mixture over each shrimp.
In the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Place shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
In the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or 180°C for a fan oven.
- Arrange the prepared shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.
Recipe Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before wrapping to help the bacon crisp up.
- Monitor cooking closely—times vary with shrimp size and bacon thickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Raw shrimp are recommended because precooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery when reheated.
Thick-cut bacon takes longer to crisp and may overcook the shrimp, so thin-cut bacon is preferable.
Avoid overcooking. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Yes. Wrap the shrimp, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours until ready to cook.
Next time you need an appetizer that’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing, try this bacon-wrapped shrimp recipe. It’s flavorful, adaptable to both air fryer and oven, and ideal for serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
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Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp approximately 15-20, peeled and deveined
- 4 ounces bacon slices cut in half
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Stir to combine.
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Lay the shrimp flat and wrap each with half a slice of bacon, securing with a soaked toothpick.
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Brush each shrimp with the garlic butter mixture.
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Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
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Place half the shrimp in the basket in a single layer without touching.
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Cook 6 minutes, then check. If needed, cook an additional 2 minutes until shrimp are opaque and bacon is crisp.
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No need to turn during cooking. Remove when done and repeat with remaining shrimp.
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Shrimp preparation: Dry shrimp well before wrapping for best crispiness.
- Bacon choice: Thin-cut bacon wraps and cooks best for this recipe.
- Cooking options: Air fryer for speed and crispness; oven for larger batches.
- Serving suggestion: Offer dipping sauces for extra flavor.
- Make-ahead tip: Assemble and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 1g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 17g
Nutrition information is approximate and provided for convenience.
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