Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: peeled and deveined shrimp are ready to cook and make the dish quick to prepare.

Bacon: bacon slices add a crispy, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with shrimp.

Garlic powder: this seasoning gives a mild garlic taste without the need to chop fresh garlic.

Paprika: paprika adds a subtle smoky and slightly sweet flavor along with a nice color.

Black pepper: black pepper brings a little heat and depth to the seasoning mix.

One of the most helpful tricks in this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe is how to wrap the shrimp with the bacon so it stays put while cooking. Here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Take one peeled and deveined shrimp and season it with the garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
2. Grab a half slice of bacon and lay it flat.
3. Place the seasoned shrimp at one end of the bacon slice.
4. Roll the bacon around the shrimp tightly but gently, making sure the shrimp is fully wrapped.
5. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place by poking it through the bacon and shrimp.

Doing this step carefully helps keep the bacon from unraveling while it cooks in the air fryer. If the bacon slips off, it won’t get crispy all around the shrimp, and the shrimp might dry out. Wrapping it snugly means the bacon crisps up perfectly and the shrimp stays juicy inside.

When I first tried this, I didn’t use a toothpick and the bacon kept falling off during cooking. It was a bit messy and the shrimp didn’t cook evenly. Now, I always make sure to secure the bacon with a toothpick, and it makes the whole process way easier and the results tastier. Plus, turning the shrimp halfway through cooking helps the bacon get crispy on all sides without burning.

This little step of wrapping and securing the shrimp with bacon makes a big difference in how the final dish looks and tastes. It’s a simple move that makes the cooking smoother and the snack more delicious!

• shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative to shrimp.

• shrimp - Substitute with chicken tenders: For those who prefer poultry, chicken tenders can be wrapped in bacon and cooked similarly.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thinly sliced cured ham that can offer a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can offer a different but complementary flavor to the dish.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that can enhance the dish.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: For those who like a bit of heat, cayenne pepper can be a good alternative.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used if you prefer a less pungent taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with lemon pepper: Lemon pepper adds a citrusy note that can brighten up the flavors.

• Allow the bacon-wrapped shrimp to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.

• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon rubbery and the shrimp overcooked.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, turning halfway, until warmed through and crispy.

• Use an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through and the bacon is crispy.

• For a more gourmet touch, use a toaster oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the shrimp on the rack. Heat for 5-6 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is hot.

• Air fryer: This is the main cooking appliance used to cook the bacon-wrapped shrimp to crispy perfection.

• Toothpicks: These are used to secure the bacon around the shrimp, ensuring it stays wrapped during cooking.

• Mixing bowl: This is used to season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.

• Tongs: These are helpful for turning the shrimp halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

• Measuring spoons: These are used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper accurately.

• Cutting board: This is used as a surface to cut the bacon slices in half.

• Knife: This is used to cut the bacon slices in half before wrapping them around the shrimp.

Preheat while prepping: Preheat the air fryer while you season the shrimp to save time.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to reduce cooking time and ensure even crispiness.

Batch process: Season and wrap all shrimp at once before placing them in the air fryer.

Quick seasoning mix: Combine garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper in a bowl beforehand for faster seasoning.

Single layer cooking: Arrange bacon-wrapped shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.