Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp: A Smokin’ Summer Sensation

Summer is synonymous with grilling, and grilling is synonymous with… well, deliciousness! And what’s more delicious than the irresistible combination of smoky bacon, succulent shrimp, and tangy barbecue sauce? This recipe for Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for backyard barbecues, pool parties, or even a simple weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to disappear fast. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this simple yet spectacular dish!

## Why Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp is a Winner

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why this dish is so universally appealing:

* **Flavor Explosion:** The saltiness of the bacon perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the tang of the barbecue sauce, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
* **Textural Delight:** The crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch, while the shrimp remains tender and juicy. The contrast is simply divine.
* **Easy to Make:** Don’t let the fancy presentation fool you; this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. With a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different types of bacon, barbecue sauces, and seasonings.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a small family dinner, Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp is always a hit. It’s a guaranteed conversation starter and a surefire way to impress your guests.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these mouthwatering Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:

* **Shrimp:** 1.5 – 2 pounds of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off, your preference). Size matters! Larger shrimp hold up better to the grilling process and provide a more substantial bite.
* **Bacon:** 1 pound of thinly sliced bacon. Thin bacon cooks quicker and gets crispier. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it may not cook through completely before the shrimp is done.
* **Barbecue Sauce:** 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. Experiment with different flavors! A smoky, sweet, or tangy barbecue sauce will all work well.
* **Brown Sugar:** 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and helps the bacon caramelize beautifully.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. For added flavor.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Enhances the savory notes.
* **Smoked Paprika:** 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
* **Cayenne Pepper (optional):** 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. For a touch of heat.
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon. To lightly coat the shrimp and prevent sticking.
* **Wooden Skewers:** Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, no soaking required.
* **Fresh Parsley (optional):** For garnish.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Thoroughly drying the shrimp is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing them from steaming instead of grilling.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat evenly. This step infuses the shrimp with flavor before they even hit the grill.

**Step 2: Prepare the Bacon**

1. Lay the bacon slices on a cutting board.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the bacon slices. This will caramelize beautifully and add a wonderful sweetness to the bacon.

**Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp Skewers**

1. Take a shrimp and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a wooden skewer, piercing through both ends of the bacon and the shrimp. Make sure the bacon is wrapped securely to prevent it from unraveling during grilling.
2. Repeat this process with the remaining shrimp and bacon, loading 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this can hinder even cooking.

**Step 4: Grill the Shrimp**

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). A well-heated grill is essential for achieving that perfect sear and crispy bacon.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This will ensure that the shrimp don’t stick and tear when you try to flip them.
3. Place the shrimp skewers on the preheated grill.
4. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp is pink and opaque. Keep a close eye on the shrimp to prevent them from overcooking. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the shrimp generously with barbecue sauce. This adds a delicious glaze and enhances the overall flavor.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!**

1. Remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp! These are best enjoyed hot off the grill.

## Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp

* **Choose the Right Shrimp:** Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results. They hold up better to grilling and provide a more substantial bite.
* **Use Thinly Sliced Bacon:** Thin bacon cooks quicker and gets crispier than thick-cut bacon.
* **Soak Your Skewers:** Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill.
* **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:** Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
* **Control the Heat:** Keep the grill at a medium heat to prevent the bacon from burning before the shrimp is cooked through.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bacon, barbecue sauces, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the shrimp are cooked to a safe internal temperature (145°F or 63°C), use a meat thermometer.
* **Pat the Shrimp Dry:** Thoroughly drying the shrimp before seasoning them helps them to get a better sear and prevents them from steaming.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Grill:** Grilling in batches ensures even cooking and prevents the temperature of the grill from dropping.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the shrimp to rest for a minute or two after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.

## Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some variations and customizations to inspire you:

* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp marinade for a fiery kick.
* **Sweet and Savory:** Use a honey barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
* **Garlic Lover’s Delight:** Add minced garlic to the shrimp marinade for an extra garlicky flavor.
* **Herb Infusion:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the shrimp marinade for an herbaceous twist.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add lemon or lime zest to the shrimp marinade for a bright and zesty flavor.
* **Different Bacon:** Try using different flavors of bacon, such as maple bacon or peppered bacon, for added complexity.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for a complete meal.
* **Pineapple Salsa:** Serve the Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp with a refreshing pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
* **Jalapeno Popper Style:** Stuff the shrimp with cream cheese and a slice of jalapeno before wrapping them in bacon.
* **Grilled Pineapple:** Alternate shrimp and grilled pineapple chunks on the skewers.

## Serving Suggestions

Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a buffet spread. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Appetizer:** Serve the shrimp skewers on a platter with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping.
* **Main Course:** Serve the shrimp skewers with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a salad.
* **Tacos:** Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos, topped with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of cilantro-lime dressing.
* **Salad Topper:** Add the shrimp to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Pasta Dish:** Toss the shrimp with pasta, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a delicious and satisfying pasta dish.
* **Rice Bowls:** Serve the shrimp over rice with your favorite toppings, such as avocado, black beans, corn, and salsa.

## Make-Ahead Tips

* You can prepare the shrimp and bacon skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
* You can also marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a more flavorful dish.
* If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water ahead of time to prevent them from burning on the grill.

## Storage Instructions

* Leftover Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
* You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 250-300 per serving (depending on the amount of bacon and barbecue sauce used)
* Protein: 25-30 grams per serving
* Fat: 15-20 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams per serving

## Conclusion

Bacon Wrapped BBQ Shrimp is a truly winning combination. It’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, smoky, and tangy, with a delightful textural contrast that will leave you wanting more. With its ease of preparation and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your grilling repertoire. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the ultimate summer sensation! Enjoy!