Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Introduction

Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is the ultimate appetizer or snack, combining the sweetness of juicy shrimp with the savory, smoky flavor of turkey bacon. It’s one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to impress, with each bite offering a mouthwatering contrast of crispy, smoky bacon and tender shrimp. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone talking.

I’ll never forget the first time I made these. I had some friends over for a casual get-together, and I wanted to serve something simple but impressive. These little shrimp wrapped in turkey bacon were a hit from the moment I took them out of the oven. The bacon got perfectly crispy while the shrimp stayed juicy, and the combination of textures was just irresistible. It became one of those recipes I kept coming back to because it’s so easy to make and always gets rave reviews.

What I love about Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer for a fancy dinner, or even make it a part of a fun snack spread. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion, big or small. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just enjoying it on a quiet evening, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Perfect for:

• Appetizers at parties
• Special occasions or celebrations
• Holiday gatherings
• Seafood lovers
• Casual snacks

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Here’s why Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp will quickly become a favorite:

• Savory and Sweet: The smoky turkey bacon and tender shrimp create a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is a hassle-free yet impressive option for any meal or event.
• Healthy Alternative: Turkey bacon provides a lower-fat alternative to traditional pork bacon while still delivering the crispiness and flavor you love.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a topping for salads, pasta, or rice dishes. The possibilities are endless.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual get-together, this dish will surely be a hit with your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (about 12 shrimp)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 22g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp:

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 slices turkey bacon, cut in half
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Shrimp is a lean source of protein, low in calories, and cooks quickly, making it the perfect base for this dish.
• Turkey Bacon: A lighter alternative to traditional bacon, turkey bacon provides the smoky flavor and crispy texture that complements the shrimp without the excess fat.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that helps crisp up the turkey bacon and adds flavor to the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness that enhances the flavors of both the shrimp and the bacon.
• Smoked Paprika: This adds a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with both the shrimp and bacon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

Wrap the Shrimp with Turkey Bacon:

3. Wrap the Shrimp: Take a half-slice of turkey bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick if needed. The bacon should cover most of the shrimp, but leave the tail exposed.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Cook the Shrimp:

5. Bake in the Oven: Bake the shrimp for 15-20 minutes, or until the turkey bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. If you prefer extra crispy bacon, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
6. Check for Doneness: Shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked. The bacon should be golden and crispy.

Serve:

7. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and discard any toothpicks. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

How to Serve Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is an easy-to-serve dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

• With a Dipping Sauce: Serve with a tangy cocktail sauce, spicy aioli, or creamy ranch dressing for added flavor.
• As an Appetizer: Place on a platter and serve as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• On a Salad: Add to a fresh green salad for a light and flavorful meal.
• With Veggies: Pair with grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a well-rounded dish.
• As a Main Course: Serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying main course.

Additional Tips for Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Here are some tips to make sure your Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp turns out perfect every time:

• Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure not to overbake it. Check it at the 15-minute mark to avoid rubbery shrimp.
• Use Thick-Cut Turkey Bacon: Thicker slices of turkey bacon will give you the best texture and flavor, ensuring it crisps up nicely.
• Soak the Toothpicks: If using toothpicks to secure the bacon, soak them in water for 10-15 minutes to prevent them from burning in the oven.
• Experiment with Seasonings: You can add other seasonings like cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, or fresh garlic for a unique flavor.
• Grill Option: You can also cook these shrimp on a grill. Place them on a grill pan or skewer them and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.

Recipe Variations for Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp:

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
• Maple Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the bacon before baking for a sweet and savory flavor.
• Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp before wrapping them in bacon.
• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for a fragrant twist.
• Chili-Lime Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in chili powder and lime zest for a zesty, flavorful dish.
• BBQ Shrimp: Brush the turkey bacon with BBQ sauce before wrapping the shrimp.
• Pineapple and Bacon: Add small chunks of pineapple with the shrimp and bacon for a tropical twist.
• Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Avocado: Top the cooked shrimp with slices of creamy avocado for a cool contrast to the smoky bacon.
• Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese: Fill the shrimp with a small spoonful of cream cheese before wrapping them in bacon for extra richness.
• Coconut-Crusted Shrimp: Coat the shrimp in shredded coconut before wrapping them in bacon for a sweet and crunchy twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze the unbaked turkey bacon-wrapped shrimp, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispiness of the turkey bacon.

Special Equipment for Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp easier:

• Baking Sheet: A non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet ensures that the shrimp don’t stick and bake evenly.
• Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the turkey bacon around the shrimp, especially if they don’t stay wrapped on their own.
• Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is useful if you decide to glaze the bacon with a sauce like maple syrup or BBQ sauce.
• Tongs: Tongs make it easy to flip the shrimp or remove them from the baking sheet without breaking the bacon.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For mixing the olive oil and seasonings before tossing the shrimp.

FAQ Section for Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

1. Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
   Yes, regular bacon can be used, but turkey bacon offers a lighter alternative with less fat and calories.
2. Can I make these shrimp ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the shrimp and bacon and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I cook these shrimp on the grill?
   Yes, grilling the shrimp is a great option. Just be sure to use a grill pan or skewer them to prevent the bacon from falling through the grill grates.
4. How do I prevent the turkey bacon from being too chewy?
   Make sure to bake the shrimp until the turkey bacon is crispy, which will help achieve the right texture.
5. Can I add cheese to the shrimp before wrapping them in bacon?
   Yes, you can add a small amount of cheese, such as cream cheese or mozzarella, inside the shrimp before wrapping them in bacon.

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Conclusion

Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender shrimp and crispy, smoky turkey bacon for a flavor-packed bite. This appetizer is perfect for impressing your guests at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a recipe that delivers big on taste and presentation.

The combination of juicy shrimp and savory turkey bacon makes this dish versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. You can customize it with a variety of dipping sauces or pair it with sides like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The best part? It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

I can’t wait to see how your Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp turn out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations! Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your experience with this recipe. Enjoy!