Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp!

Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients:

• 12 large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off, based on preference)

• 6 slices of bacon (cut in half, so you have 12 pieces)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra crispiness)

• Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

   • If the shrimp still have their tails on, you can leave them or remove them depending on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the bacon crisp up better.

3. Season the Shrimp:

   • In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the shrimp, tossing to coat them.

4. Wrap the Shrimp in Bacon:

   • Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon covers most of the shrimp.

5. Optional Step (For Extra Crispiness):

   • Lightly spray or brush the shrimp and bacon with olive oil. This will help the bacon crisp up and become golden brown in the air fryer.

6. Place in the Air Fryer:

   • Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure they are not overcrowded to allow the hot air to circulate and crisp up the bacon evenly.

7. Air Fry the Shrimp:

   • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. You may need to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and crispiness on both sides. The shrimp should be pink and opaque when done, and the bacon should be crispy.

8. Serve:

   • Remove the toothpicks and serve the bacon-wrapped shrimp with your favorite dipping sauce (such as cocktail sauce, ranch, or aioli). Enjoy!

Q&A Section:

Q1: Can I use a different type of bacon?
Yes! You can use turkey bacon or thick-cut bacon, but keep in mind that turkey bacon might not crisp up as well as traditional pork bacon. Thick-cut bacon may require a little longer cooking time.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp ahead of time, wrap them in bacon, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before air frying. However, it’s best to cook them fresh to maintain the crispiness of the bacon.

Q3: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and wrapping in bacon. If using frozen shrimp, be prepared to add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

Q4: Can I add extra seasoning to the shrimp?
Absolutely! You can customize the seasoning with other spices like cayenne pepper for heat, Italian seasoning for a herbaceous touch, or lemon zest for a citrusy flavor.

Q5: How do I prevent the bacon from being undercooked?
If you’re using thick-cut bacon, you may need to cook the shrimp a little longer. Check for doneness by ensuring the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. You can also increase the temperature to 425°F for the last 2 minutes if needed.

Q6: Can I serve this as an appetizer?
Definitely! These bacon-wrapped shrimp are perfect as an appetizer for parties or gatherings. You can also serve them over a salad, with rice, or as a side dish.

Q7: What should I serve with bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Bacon-wrapped shrimp pairs well with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even on top of pasta. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce like spicy mayo or honey mustard.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness.