Bacon wrapped shrimp is a popular dish that combines the sweetness of succulent shrimp with the smokiness of crispy bacon. It’s a perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook bacon wrapped shrimp in a pan, along with some tips and tricks to make it even more delicious.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Shrimp
- Look for large, fresh shrimp with the shells removed. You can use either whiteleg shrimp or gulf shrimp, whichever is available in your area.
- Make sure the shrimp are deveined, as this will help them cook more evenly.
- If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them according to the package instructions before using.
Bacon
- Choose a thick-cut bacon that will hold its shape when cooked. You can use either regular bacon or applewood-smoked bacon for a more complex flavor.
- Look for bacon with a good balance of fat and lean meat, as this will help it cook more evenly.
Seasonings
- You’ll need some basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add flavor to the shrimp and bacon.
- You can also add some paprika or cayenne pepper to give the dish a bit of heat.
Preparing the Shrimp and Bacon
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here’s what you need to do:
Peeling and Deveining the Shrimp
- If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, you’ll need to do this step yourself.
- Hold the shrimp firmly and peel off the shell, starting at the head end.
- Use a small knife or a deveining tool to remove the vein that runs down the back of the shrimp.
Cutting the Bacon
- Cut the bacon into strips that are about 1/2 inch wide and 2-3 inches long.
- You’ll need one strip of bacon per shrimp, so cut as many strips as you have shrimp.
Cooking the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Now it’s time to cook the bacon wrapped shrimp. Here’s what you need to do:
Wrapping the Shrimp in Bacon
- Take a shrimp and wrap a strip of bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Make sure the bacon is snug around the shrimp, but not too tight.
Heating the Pan
- Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan, just enough to coat the bottom.
Cooking the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Place the bacon wrapped shrimp in the pan, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the most of your bacon wrapped shrimp:
Adding Flavor to the Shrimp
- You can add some flavor to the shrimp by marinating them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
- You can also sprinkle some grated cheese or chopped herbs on top of the shrimp before serving.
Using Different Types of Bacon
- You can use different types of bacon to change the flavor of the dish. For example, you can use applewood-smoked bacon for a sweeter flavor or peppered bacon for a spicier flavor.
- You can also use prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon for a more delicate flavor.
Serving the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- You can serve the bacon wrapped shrimp as an appetizer or main course.
- You can also serve them with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking bacon wrapped shrimp:
Overcooking the Shrimp
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as this can make them tough and rubbery.
- Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and just cooked through, then remove them from the heat.
Not Cooking the Bacon Enough
- Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown, as this will help it hold its shape.
- If the bacon is not cooked enough, it can be soggy and unappetizing.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon wrapped shrimp in a pan is a simple and delicious way to prepare this popular dish. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet and smoky flavor of bacon wrapped shrimp.
What is the best type of shrimp to use for bacon wrapped shrimp?
The best type of shrimp to use for bacon wrapped shrimp is large or extra-large shrimp, as they are easier to wrap with bacon and will yield a more impressive presentation. You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp first before using.
It’s also important to choose shrimp that are peeled and deveined, as this will make the wrapping process much easier. You can also use shrimp with the tails on or off, depending on your personal preference. Some people like to leave the tails on for a more rustic presentation, while others prefer to remove them for a more elegant look.
How do I prevent the bacon from burning while cooking the shrimp?
To prevent the bacon from burning while cooking the shrimp, make sure to cook the shrimp over medium heat and keep an eye on them at all times. You can also use a thermometer to ensure that the pan is not too hot, as this can cause the bacon to burn.
Another trick is to use a small amount of oil in the pan before adding the shrimp, as this will help to prevent the bacon from sticking to the pan and burning. You can also use a non-stick pan, which will make it easier to cook the shrimp without the bacon burning.
Can I use different types of bacon for bacon wrapped shrimp?
Yes, you can use different types of bacon for bacon wrapped shrimp, depending on your personal preference. Some popular types of bacon to use include thick-cut bacon, thin-cut bacon, applewood-smoked bacon, and peppered bacon.
Each type of bacon will give the shrimp a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment and find the one that you like best. For example, thick-cut bacon will give the shrimp a heartier, more robust flavor, while thin-cut bacon will provide a more delicate flavor.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
To know when the shrimp are cooked through, look for a few different signs. First, the shrimp should be pink and opaque, rather than translucent. They should also be firm to the touch, rather than soft and squishy.
Another way to check if the shrimp are cooked through is to cut into one of them. If it is cooked through, it should be white and flaky on the inside, rather than pink or raw-looking. Make sure to cook the shrimp until they are fully cooked, as undercooked shrimp can be a food safety risk.
Can I add other ingredients to the pan with the shrimp?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the pan with the shrimp, depending on your personal preference. Some popular ingredients to add include garlic, onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
These ingredients will add extra flavor to the shrimp and can help to create a more well-rounded dish. Just make sure to add them to the pan before adding the shrimp, so that they have time to cook and soften. You can also add a sauce or seasoning to the pan, such as soy sauce or Cajun seasoning, to give the shrimp extra flavor.
How do I serve bacon wrapped shrimp?
Bacon wrapped shrimp can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, depending on your personal preference. They are a popular dish to serve at parties and special occasions, as they are easy to make and look impressive.
You can serve the shrimp on their own, or with a side of rice, vegetables, or salad. They are also a great addition to a seafood platter or buffet. Make sure to serve the shrimp hot, as this will help to bring out the flavors of the bacon and shrimp.
Can I make bacon wrapped shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can make bacon wrapped shrimp ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving. You can prepare the shrimp and wrap them with bacon up to a day in advance, but make sure to store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.
If you need to cook the shrimp ahead of time, you can cook them and then keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until you are ready to serve them. Just make sure to check on them periodically to ensure that they are not getting too dry or overcooked.