Smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor, these Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp with Jalapeño are an easy appetizer for summer cookouts, game day, or holiday gatherings. Juicy shrimp are stuffed with fresh jalapeño, wrapped in bacon, and brushed with garlic-lime butter. Grill or broil until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are tender, then serve with salsa verde or avocado crema for dipping.
1poundlarge shrimp (21–25 count per pound)peeled and deveined (about 20 shrimp)
3jalapeño pepperscut into thin strips
wooden toothpickspresoaked
Instructions
Microwave bacon on high for 1 minute. Separate slices and cut slices in half crosswise and let cool.
In a bowl, combine melted butter, lime juice, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano.
Peel the shrimp, butterfly, and devein, leaving the tail and last section intact. Place 2 jalapeño strips in each shrimp and press sides together. Wrap a half slice of bacon around each shrimp and secure with a toothpick. Use a pastry brush to coat the shrimp with butter mixture.
Broil:
Place bacon-wrapped shrimp evenly on a foil-lined cookie sheet. Place under broiler. Broil for 10 to 12 minutes, turning over after 5 to 6 minutes.
Grill:
Skewer 3 to 4 shrimp per skewer. (If using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak skewers about 30 minutes before using.) Place crosswise on the grates and grill for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side. Remove from skewer and serve warm with salsa verde.
Video
Notes
Bacon Tip: Microwave bacon for 1 minute to make it pliable and help it crisp up faster. Use regular-cut (not thick) for best results.
Toothpicks: Soak wooden toothpicks in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Jalapeños: For mild heat, remove seeds and membranes. For more spice, leave some in—or swap with serrano peppers.
Shrimp: Use raw large shrimp (21–25 count per pound). Tail-on shrimp make a pretty presentation and easy-to-grab appetizer.
Make Ahead: Assemble up to 8 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestion: These pair perfectly with salsa verde, avocado crema, or your favorite dipping sauce.