Longing for a quick appetizer that will leave your guests raving? You’ve struck gold with these Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese! When a friend introduced me to this delightful dish, I couldn’t believe how five simple ingredients could transform a simple shrimp into a spectacular bite of bliss.
Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy bacon that gives way to tender shrimp, complemented by the creamy richness of cream cheese and a zing from jalapeños. Whether it’s a casual game night or an elegant dinner party, these decadent bites are sure to impress. Even better, they fit seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone from foodies to health-conscious eaters.
So, let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to elevate your next gathering with just a little bit of prep time and a dash of culinary creativity!
Why are Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese irresistible?
Quick preparation: This recipe whips up in no time, allowing you to create a stunning appetizer without the fuss.
Flavor explosion: The combination of creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños packs a punch that tantalizes the taste buds.
Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these bites are always a hit at any event!
Low-carb delight: They fit beautifully into a keto diet while keeping your guests satisfied.
Versatile option: Get creative by swapping flavors or serving them alongside your favorite dips—they’re sure to shine!
Get ready to be the star of your next gathering with these delectable bites.
Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Main protein; peeled and deveined, ideally gulf shrimp for flavor. Substitution: Other large shrimp varieties can be used.
• Cream Cheese – Provides richness and creaminess; must be softened for easy use. Preparation Note: Microwave for 10 seconds to soften.
• Pickled Jalapeños – Adds flavor and subtle heat. Note: Amount can be adjusted based on spice preference.
• Bacon – Envelops the shrimp, adding crispiness and flavor. Preparation Note: Use thin-sliced bacon cut in half for wrapping.
For Cooking
• Olive Oil – Used for frying the shrimp; ensures a crispy texture. Note: Amount not included in nutritional calculations.
For Finishing Touch
• Sweet Red Chili Sauce – A glaze for finishing; enhances sweetness and adds flavor. Substitution: Omit for strict low-carb diet.
How to Make Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese
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Prepare the Shrimp: Make a deep slit on the back of each shrimp to create a pocket, cutting about ¾ of the way through. This will hold all the delicious filling!
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Stuff with Cream Cheese: Fill each pocket with 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese and add a slice of pickled jalapeño. This combination adds rich creaminess and a zing!
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Wrap in Bacon: Take a half slice of thin bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, slightly stretching to overlap, leaving the tail exposed. This ensures a crispy finish.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover half the shrimp when they’re lying on their side for an even cook.
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Cook the Shrimp: Carefully add the wrapped shrimp to the hot pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy, and the shrimp are cooked through.
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Finish and Serve: Drain the cooked shrimp on paper towels and brush them with sweet red chili sauce before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Variations
Feel free to give your stuffed shrimp a personal twist with these fun variations!
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Low-Fat Swap: Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Your waistline will thank you!
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Fresh Heat: Replace pickled jalapeños with fresh jalapeños for a crisp, vibrant flavor. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your dish!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the cream cheese for a burst of freshness. It takes the flavor profile to another level!
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, with the cream cheese for an extra cheesy filling that will delight cheese lovers.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze a bit of lime juice into the cream cheese for a zesty kick. It brightens the flavors beautifully!
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Spicy Alternative: For an even bolder taste, try substituting the pickled jalapeños with spicy sriracha sauce mixed into the cream cheese.
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Sweet Twist: Brush the cooked shrimp with a honey glaze instead of sweet red chili sauce for a sweet-savory blend that’s simply irresistible.
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Crunchy Coating: For an added crunch, roll the bacon-wrapped shrimp in panko breadcrumbs before frying. It creates a crispy coating that’s hard to resist.
Each variation opens up a delightful new experience for your palate—happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp by stuffing them with cream cheese and jalapeños up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap them in bacon and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality and flavor, be sure to cook them right before serving. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy. This way, you can enjoy delicious, gourmet-style appetizers with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese
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Fridge: Store cooked stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive their crispy texture.
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Freezer: These shrimp can be frozen uncooked for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag for easy access.
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Thawing: To use frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking. This ensures even cooking and preserves the juicy flavor.
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Keep It Fresh: Prepared but uncooked shrimp should be kept refrigerated and cooked within one day for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Make sure to buy fresh or frozen shrimp that are large and peeled. Gulf shrimp are especially flavorful for this recipe.
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Soften Cream Cheese: For easy stuffing, always soften the cream cheese first. A quick 10-second zap in the microwave does wonders!
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Season the Bacon: Enhance the flavor by lightly seasoning the bacon with black pepper or smoked paprika before wrapping—it adds an extra taste dimension.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp while frying; it’s easy to overcook them. Pull them when the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are pink and opaque.
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Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to customize the heat level by varying the amount of pickled jalapeños. Less for a milder option, or more for a fiery kick!
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Serve Immediately: These stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp with cream cheese are best served hot and fresh from the skillet to enjoy that irresistible crunch.
What to Serve with Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese?
Looking to create a memorable feast to accompany these delightful bites?
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds brightness with its tangy dressing, perfectly balancing the rich shrimp.
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Spicy Garlic Butter Asparagus: A tender vegetable that provides a beautiful color contrast and complements the savory shrimp flavor.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth, cool accompaniment that offers a refreshing taste against the warm, spicy shrimp.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn brings a comforting, hearty touch that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s flavors.
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Light Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A fresh and crisp salad can cleanse the palate, making each bite of shrimp even more enjoyable.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp and refreshing wine enhances the dish, easing the richness of the cream cheese and bacon while complementing the seafood.
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Mini Caprese Skewers: Add a burst of freshness with these skewers, featuring mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil—simple yet stunning alongside the shrimp.
Serve these selections to elevate your dining experience while ensuring a delightful balance of flavors and textures!
Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp?
I recommend using peeled and deveined gulf shrimp for their exceptional flavor. However, other large shrimp varieties will work beautifully too! Make sure they’re fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
How should I store leftovers of stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Cooked stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. To keep their crispy texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months. To do this, arrange the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for easy storage.
How do I thaw frozen stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp?
For best results, thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator. This gentle method ensures that they maintain their juicy flavor and allows for even cooking when you fry them up.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I adjust the jalapeños?
Very! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of pickled jalapeños or omit them entirely. You could also swap them for something like roasted red peppers for a different but delightful taste.
Is it safe to leave cooked shrimp at room temperature?
No, it’s best to keep cooked shrimp at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Enjoy your stuffed bacon-wrapped shrimp while they’re fresh!
Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Cream Cheese: Easy Party Hit
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Shrimp: Make a deep slit on the back of each shrimp to create a pocket, cutting about ¾ of the way through.
- Stuff with Cream Cheese: Fill each pocket with 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese and add a slice of pickled jalapeño.
- Wrap in Bacon: Take a half slice of thin bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, slightly stretching to overlap.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Carefully add the wrapped shrimp to the hot pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Finish and Serve: Drain the cooked shrimp on paper towels and brush them with sweet red chili sauce before serving.