There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of crispy bacon mingling with the tender scent of fresh shrimp wafting through the air. That’s the experience I had when I first tried these Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp at a casual gathering with friends. As the dish made its way around the table, I could see eyes lighting up with each delicious bite—the perfect blend of smoky flavor and succulent seafood. What’s even better? You can whip this crowd-pleaser up in under 30 minutes with just five ingredients!
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack for movie night, a show-stopping appetizer for a festive gathering, or simply a new addition to your low-carb repertoire, this recipe has you covered. It’s gluten-free and effortlessly simple, making it a go-to for those of us yearning to escape the fast-food rut. Let’s dive into creating this delightful dish that’s sure to keep everyone coming back for more!
Why Is Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp a Must-Try?
Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delectable dish, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or surprise guests.
Flavor explosion: The combination of crispy bacon and tender shrimp creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Easy ingredients: With only five simple components, you likely already have most of these in your kitchen!
Low-carb goodness: This dish is not just delicious; it’s also gluten-free and boasts only 1g of carbs per serving, making it ideal for low-carb diets.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for any occasion, these shrimp are bound to impress family and friends, whether as an appetizer or a main course.
Elevate your next gathering with this flavorful and appealing dish, and don’t forget to check out more appetizer ideas for more delicious options!
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use large or jumbo size, preferably frozen, split, and deveined for convenience.
For the Wrapping
• Bacon – Opt for uncured Canadian bacon with no added sugar for a healthier choice, adding a crispy texture to the shrimp.
For the Coating
• Butter – 100% grass-fed, organic unsalted butter ensures richness and juiciness in every bite.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the shrimp with a savory aroma and enhances overall flavor.
For Garnishing
• Parsley – Chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also delivers a burst of freshness to your dish.
Get ready to savor this delightful Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, which is sure to steal the show at your next gathering!
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. This ensures an even cooking temperature, allowing the bacon to crisp up perfectly while the shrimp becomes tender and juicy.
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This flavorful coating will bring out the taste of the shrimp and add a delicious aroma.
- Wrap each shrimp tightly with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly for better coverage and flavor.
- Coat each bacon-wrapped shrimp generously with the garlic butter mixture. This deepens the flavor, making every bite exquisite.
- Arrange half of the shrimp in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This helps them cook evenly and get that desired crispy texture.
- Cook for 6 minutes. Afterward, check for doneness; cook for an additional 2 minutes if necessary. The shrimp should be opaque, and the bacon crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain. The delightful flavors will shine through no matter how you choose to enjoy them!
Optional: Serve with fresh lemon wedges to add a zesty brightness to the dish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
- Choose Quality Bacon: Opt for uncured Canadian bacon with no added sugar for better flavor and crispiness while keeping your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp healthier.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the shrimp to prevent overcooking; they should only take about 6-8 minutes total, depending on your air fryer.
- Thaw Shrimp Properly: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before wrapping in bacon to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to add different spices to your garlic butter, like paprika or cayenne, for a unique twist on your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.
- Even Cooking: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and that every piece achieves that perfect crispy texture.
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Variations
Get creative with these delicious twists and customizations for your shrimp dish!
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a fiery twist that pairs beautifully with the savory bacon. Feel the heat as each bite ignites your taste buds!
- Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh cilantro or basil in the garlic butter for a lively, fragrant alternative. Each herb offers a unique flavor profile that elevates the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, on top of the shrimp before air frying for an ooey-gooey cheesy crust that will please cheese lovers.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or a sugar-free syrup over the shrimp before serving for a delightful contrast to the salty bacon. This can create beautiful caramelization and amplify the overall flavor!
- Smoky Flavor: Try using smoked bacon or adding smoked paprika to the garlic mixture for an extra layer of rich, hearty taste that will tempt your senses. Smokiness meets juiciness in every bite!
- Zesty Lemon: Incorporate lemon juice and zest into the garlic butter for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the bacon. A squeeze of citrus makes everything feel elevated!
- Nutty Crunch: Coarsely chop roasted nuts, like pistachios or almonds, and sprinkle them over the finished dish for a delightful crunch and added texture. The nutty flavor creates a surprising yet pleasant surprise with each bite.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste, and enjoy crafting your perfect version of Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp?
Transform your appetizer into a full-fledged meal by pairing these delightful bites with complementary flavors and textures.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This crunchy side with buttery garlic brings a satisfying contrast, perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter.
- Zesty Coleslaw: A fresh and crunchy coleslaw adds a tangy bite that brightens the rich flavors of the shrimp, making each bite refreshing.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: Smooth and lush, this dip elevates the dish with a cool creaminess that perfectly balances the salty bacon and tender shrimp.
- Spicy Sriracha Aioli: This dip enhances the savory notes of the shrimp while giving a spicy kick, creating a mouthwatering flavor explosion.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, a cucumber salad offers a refreshing crunch to complement the richness of the shrimp, bringing a summer vibe to your meal.
- Lemon Wedges: Adding a squeeze of lemon instantly brightens the dish, enhancing the seafood’s natural flavors while cutting through the bacon’s richness.
Enjoy these delicious pairings to make your Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp experience even more memorable!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the shrimp in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the bacon regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
Room Temperature: If you’re serving these shrimp at a gathering, aim to keep them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp by wrapping them in bacon and securing with toothpicks up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. To maintain that crispy, delicious texture, avoid coating the shrimp with the garlic butter mixture until just before cooking. When ready to serve, preheat the air fryer, coat the shrimp, and cook according to the recipe instructions—enjoying perfectly cooked, mouthwatering shrimp without the last-minute rush!
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for large or jumbo sizes, preferably frozen, split, and deveined for convenience. Fresh shrimp should be firm and slightly translucent with a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that are blackened or have a strong fishy odor.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can remain fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid (about 1 to 2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freeze-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just air fry from frozen at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
If your shrimp tends to become overcooked, it’s essential to watch the cooking time closely. Ensure your air fryer is preheated to 350°F, and check for doneness at the 6-minute mark, adding no more than 2 additional minutes as needed. The shrimp should be opaque but still juicy. Always use a timer to keep track!
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
Oh! If you or your guests have seafood allergies, it’s best to skip this recipe altogether as shrimp can cause severe reactions. Also, double-check the bacon, butter, and garlic to ensure no allergens for specific diets. For gluten-free diets, ensure the bacon is labeled gluten-free, and feel free to offer a dairy-free butter substitute if needed.
Can I customize the flavor of the garlic butter?
Absolutely! You can definitely give your garlic butter mixture a flavorful twist. Try adding smoked paprika for a subtle heat, or a pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous. Other great additions include fresh herbs like thyme or even a dash of lemon zest for brightness! The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!
Irresistible Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Wrap each shrimp tightly with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Coat each bacon-wrapped shrimp generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Arrange half of the shrimp in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 6 minutes, checking for doneness and cooking for an additional 2 minutes if necessary.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain.
