Prepare to delight your taste buds with our incredibly easy and addictively delicious Smoked Bacon Wrapped Shrimp recipe. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for anyone looking to impress with their smoker, even if you’re a complete beginner. The magic happens as succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and a tangy barbecue glaze meld together with the rich smokiness of wood chips, creating an appetizer that’s simply irresistible.

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a smoker working its magic, especially when football season kicks off. We cherish the slower pace of smoking, making it the perfect culinary companion for game day or any relaxed gathering. These bacon-wrapped shrimp are designed to be a fantastic finger food, allowing everyone to easily grab a delicious bite while enjoying conversations and festivities. It’s a versatile snack that fits perfectly into any occasion, promising maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Why This Smoked Shrimp Recipe Shines

What sets these smoked bacon-wrapped shrimp apart and makes them an instant hit? It’s a masterful combination of textures and flavors that is both simple to prepare and sophisticated to taste:

• The Irresistible Allure of Crispy Bacon: It’s a culinary truth – bacon makes everything better! The smoky, salty crunch of perfectly rendered bacon provides a delightful contrast to the tender sweetness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious bite.
• Effortless Finger Food Perfection: These appetizers are designed for easy enjoyment. No need for cutlery; guests can simply pick them up and savor. This makes them ideal for bustling parties, casual potlucks, or relaxed game nights where convenience is key.
• The Quintessential Appetizer: Light enough to whet the appetite without being too filling, yet packed with enough flavor to excite the palate, these shrimp bites disappear remarkably fast, a true testament to their popularity.
• A Universal Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe consistently earns rave reviews from everyone, regardless of age or dietary preference. Its broad appeal makes it a reliable choice when you need a dish that caters to a diverse group of guests.
• Deep Smoky Flavor Profile: The magic of the smoker infuses each piece of shrimp and bacon with an unparalleled depth of flavor that oven-baked versions simply cannot replicate. It transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• Visually Stunning Presentation: With their golden-brown, crispy bacon, vibrant pink shrimp, and a subtle glaze of barbecue sauce, these appetizers are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. They effortlessly elevate any serving platter.

Essential Ingredients for Smoked Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how few ingredients are required to create such an impressive and flavorful dish. Opting for quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture of your smoked shrimp.

• Large or Jumbo Shrimp: For this recipe, aim for raw, large, or jumbo shrimp (ideally 21-25 count per pound or larger). These bigger shrimp offer a more substantial and satisfying bite, and their size helps prevent them from overcooking and becoming rubbery on the smoker. Ensure they are peeled and deveined to save on prep time.
• Thin-Cut Bacon Slices: The choice of bacon is critical. Thin-cut bacon crisps up beautifully and evenly around the shrimp without dominating the flavor or taking too long to cook. Avoid thick-cut varieties, as they often fail to render fully and crisp up in the short time required to cook the shrimp, leading to an imbalance in texture.
• Your Favorite Barbecue Sauce: Select a barbecue sauce you genuinely enjoy, as its flavor will become an integral part of the dish. A classic sweet and smoky sauce works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with spicier, tangier, or even a mustard-based sauce for a unique twist.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These foundational seasonings are indispensable for enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the savory notes of the bacon. Always opt for freshly ground black pepper for superior aroma and flavor.

For precise quantities and measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Easy Recipe Walkthrough: Step-by-Step Instructions

This section provides a clear, concise overview of the steps involved in preparing your smoked bacon wrapped shrimp. For more detailed instructions, important tips, and exact cooking times, please consult the full recipe card at the conclusion of this post.

1. Prepare and Season the Shrimp: Begin by thoroughly patting your peeled and deveined shrimp dry using paper towels. This crucial step helps any seasonings adhere better and significantly contributes to crispier bacon. Once dry, generously season the shrimp on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Partially Cook the Bacon: This is a key technique for perfect results. Gently par-cook your thin-cut bacon slices until they are pliable and about halfway cooked through, but not yet fully crispy. You can achieve this in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. This ensures the bacon will fully crisp on the smoker without overcooking the delicate shrimp inside.
3. Wrap and Secure: With care, wrap each seasoned shrimp with a single strip of the par-cooked bacon. Secure the bacon snugly around the shrimp using a wooden toothpick. This keeps the assembly intact during smoking and creates a neat, appealing appetizer. Line them up on a baking sheet as you go.
4. Smoke to Perfection: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp directly onto the preheated smoker grates. Smoke for approximately 25-30 minutes. Halfway through this cooking period, gently turn the shrimp over and lightly brush them with your chosen barbecue sauce. Continue smoking until the bacon is delightfully crispy and the shrimp have turned opaque pink.

Creative Recipe Variations & Substitute Ideas

While exceptionally delicious on its own, this smoked bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is remarkably adaptable. Feel free to explore these creative variations to customize the dish to your personal taste or to impress your guests with a unique flavor profile:

• Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glaze: For a delightful caramelization, create a simple glaze by mixing brown sugar with a touch of garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Brush this onto the shrimp during the last 10 minutes of smoking instead of, or in addition to, the barbecue sauce.
• Zesty Citrus Infusion with Lime Juice: To introduce a bright and tangy kick, consider soaking the peeled shrimp in fresh lime juice for about 5-10 minutes before patting them dry and wrapping with bacon. This citrus burst beautifully complements the rich, smoky flavors.
• Rich Garlic Butter Enhancement: Elevate the taste by brushing the shrimp with melted garlic butter during the final stages of smoking, perhaps in place of the BBQ sauce or as an additional layer of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley at the end adds a touch of vibrancy.
• Spice It Up with Chili Powder: For those who appreciate a bit of heat, add a generous sprinkle of chili powder, a dash of red pepper flakes, or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to your seasoning blend or directly into the barbecue sauce.
• Tropical Pineapple Chunks: Introduce a fantastic sweet and savory contrast by serving the smoked shrimp alongside grilled pineapple chunks. The tropical sweetness of pineapple pairs exceptionally well with the smoky bacon and tender shrimp.
• Aromatic Onion Powder: Enhance the savory depth of the shrimp by including a small amount of onion powder in your initial salt and pepper seasoning blend.
• Spicy Barbecue Sauce Twist: For an extra layer of bold flavor, stir a small amount of your preferred hot sauce directly into the barbecue sauce before brushing it onto the shrimp.
• Pineapple Juice Marinade: For a more subtle tropical sweetness, soak the shrimp in pineapple juice for about 15 minutes before patting dry and proceeding with the recipe. The enzymes in pineapple juice also tenderize the shrimp slightly.
• Cheesy Indulgence with Monterey Jack: For a decadent surprise, tuck a small piece of Monterey Jack cheese (or another quick-melting cheese like cheddar or Gouda) inside the bacon wrap along with the shrimp. The cheese will melt into a gooey delight.
• Selecting Your Smoker Pellets (or Wood Chips): The type of wood you choose significantly impacts the final smoky flavor.
  • Hickory: A robust, classic smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with bacon and shrimp.
  • Mesquite: Offers a more intense, earthy, and bold smoke, ideal for those who prefer a strong smoky presence.
  • Apple or Cherry: Provide a milder, sweeter, and fruity smoke that beautifully complements the delicate taste of seafood.
  • Pecan: Delivers a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet smoke, a versatile choice that’s less assertive than hickory but more complex than fruit woods.
  • Don’t hesitate to experiment with different wood types or a customized blend to discover your preferred smoky profile!
• Offer a Variety of Dipping Sauces: Enhance the interactive experience by serving the smoked shrimp with a selection of dipping sauces. Options like creamy ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy honey mustard can cater to all preferences.
• Elegant Wooden Skewers: For a more refined presentation and easier handling, thread several bacon-wrapped shrimp onto pre-soaked wooden skewers before placing them on the smoker. Remember to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
• Umami-Rich Soy Sauce Glaze: As an alternative to barbecue sauce, brush the shrimp lightly with a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of honey or ginger for an Asian-inspired umami flavor.
• A Hint of Paprika: Incorporate a pinch of smoked paprika into your seasoning blend. Its smoky notes will naturally enhance the overall flavor profile, especially if you’re using a milder wood chip.

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Necessary Gear & Equipment

To ensure your smoked bacon wrapped shrimp come out perfectly every time, having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of essential equipment:

• Pellet Smoker or Charcoal Smoker: The star of this recipe! A reliable smoker is absolutely vital for infusing that signature smoky flavor. Whether you use a dedicated pellet smoker (like a Pit Boss or Traeger) or a charcoal smoker with wood chips, ensure it can maintain a consistent temperature for even cooking.
• Quality Wood Pellets or Wood Chips: Your choice of wood dramatically influences the smoky essence. Select your favorite flavor (hickory, mesquite, apple, cherry, or a unique blend) to complement the shrimp and bacon. High-quality pellets or chips are key for clean smoke and optimal flavor delivery.
• Long-Handled Tongs: Essential for safely turning the shrimp on the hot grates and handling them once they are cooked. Long handles keep your hands away from the heat.
• Silicone Basting Brush: A silicone brush is perfect for evenly applying the barbecue sauce during the smoking process. Its bristles hold sauce well and are easy to clean.
• Wooden Toothpicks: Crucial for securing the bacon firmly around each shrimp. To prevent them from burning on the smoker, remember to soak your wooden toothpicks in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Paper Towels: For thoroughly patting the shrimp dry, a step that helps seasonings adhere and promotes crispier bacon.

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You can find direct links to some of the specific equipment we used and highly recommend in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Explore More Delicious Smoker Recipes

If you enjoyed crafting this smoked shrimp recipe, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic dishes from our collection. Expand your smoking repertoire and discover new favorites that leverage the incredible flavor only a smoker can provide!

• Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
• Butterfly Shrimp Recipe
• Creole Shrimp and Grits
• Smoked Meatloaf

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

While it’s a rare occurrence to have any of these incredibly delicious morsels remaining, here’s a guide on how to properly store and reheat your smoked bacon wrapped shrimp to enjoy them later:

• Storage: Once the smoked bacon wrapped shrimp have cooled completely – which, we admit, might be the hardest part – transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly, and they will keep fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For the best results, reheat your leftovers in an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes. The goal is to heat them through until the bacon crisps up again. We highly recommend avoiding the microwave, as it can often render the shrimp rubbery and the bacon soggy.

Chef’s Essential Tips & Tricks

Pro Tip from Mel: Perfecting your smoked bacon wrapped shrimp involves strategic timing, especially when it comes to the barbecue sauce. Avoid brushing the sauce on too early in the smoking process, as the sugars in the sauce can burn prematurely, leading to an unpleasant bitter taste. Instead, apply a light brush of your chosen barbecue sauce about halfway through the cooking time. Remember, the aim is a delicate glaze, not a heavy coating – you want the delightful natural flavors of the tender shrimp and smoky bacon to remain the stars of the show!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Smoked Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Smoked bacon wrapped shrimp is an addictively tasty and super easy way to prepare shrimp. Seasoned, wrapped in crispy bacon, then smoked with your favorite wood chips, it truly can’t be beat for flavor and simplicity.