Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Maple BBQ Glazed Bacon Wrapped Shrimp is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that combines the smoky richness of bacon, the sweet complexity of maple syrup, and the tangy kick of BBQ sauce. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe promises to be a show-stopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the ingredients. Ensure that the shrimp are peeled and deveined. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If using an oven, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup and BBQ sauce. Stir well to create a smooth glaze. Reserve a small amount of the glaze for basting later.
- Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. Wrap each half around a shrimp, starting from the tail and spiraling up to the top. Secure the bacon with a skewer, if necessary. Repeat this process for all shrimp.
- Once all the shrimp are wrapped in bacon, season them with salt and pepper to taste.
- If grilling, place the bacon-wrapped shrimp directly on the grill grates. If baking, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Cook the shrimp for about 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved maple BBQ glaze. Turn the shrimp over and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 120°F.
- Remove the shrimp from the grill or oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the Maple BBQ Glazed Bacon Wrapped Shrimp warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze, and enjoy your delicious dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Opt for large shrimp (16-20 count) for the best texture and easier wrapping.
- Bacon Matters: Use thin-cut bacon to ensure it crisps up nicely and cooks evenly with the shrimp.
- Prevent Skewer Burning: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
- Don't Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly! Watch carefully to prevent them from becoming rubbery. They're done when they turn opaque and reach an internal temperature of 120°F.
- Glaze Timing: Apply the maple BBQ glaze towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and ensure a perfect caramelization.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the wrapped shrimp ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook, making party prep a breeze.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a fresh side salad or grilled vegetables to balance the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of the shrimp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 250mg
