Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: 5 Minute Joyful Bites

Name: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: 5 Minute Joyful Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 slices of bacon, cut in half; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 2, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s just something magical about appetizers, isn’t there? They bring everyone together, sparking joy and conversation around the table. And when it comes to quick and delicious bites, my absolute favorite has to be air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp. Trust me, these little gems are a total crowd-pleaser! The combination of crispy bacon and succulent shrimp is simply heavenly.

What I love most about this dish is how fast it is to whip up. In under 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful appetizer ready to impress your friends or family at gatherings. I remember the first time I made these for a game night, and everyone couldn’t get enough. They disappeared in minutes! The best part? You don’t need to slave away in the kitchen. The air fryer does all the work, giving you golden, crispy shrimp wrapped in bacon with minimal effort.

So, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a tasty snack, these air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp are sure to become a go-to recipe. Let’s dive into how to make them!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 slices of bacon, cut in half
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to grab the freshest shrimp you can find; it really makes a difference! And don’t worry if you have some leftover bacon bits—those can be used in so many other dishes! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Getting these air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious appetizer in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your shrimp cook evenly and the bacon gets nice and crispy. You don’t want to skip this part!
Toss the shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every shrimp is coated well with those flavorful seasonings. This is where the magic begins!
Wrap the shrimp: Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick. This step is not only fun but also super important to keep that crispy bacon in place while cooking. Just a quick tip: if you find the toothpicks are too long, feel free to break them down to size.
Arrange in the air fryer: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded; you want the hot air to circulate around each piece for that perfect crispness.
Cook to perfection: Cook the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes. The timing can vary a bit based on the size of your shrimp, so keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving—nobody wants to bite into one of those!

And there you have it! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a plate of delicious air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp that’s sure to impress. Just thinking about that crispy bacon and tender shrimp makes my mouth water! Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have this tasty appetizer ready in under 30 minutes!
Effortlessly Delicious: The combination of crispy bacon and juicy shrimp creates an explosion of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game night, holiday party, or just a cozy dinner at home, these shrimp are always a hit.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets and gatherings.
Minimal Cleanup: Thanks to the air fryer, you’ll spend less time scrubbing pans and more time enjoying your delicious creation!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make these air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp, here are some pro tips to ensure they turn out absolutely perfect every single time!

Choose the Right Shrimp

Always opt for large, fresh shrimp. Their size helps maintain moisture while cooking, and they’re just the right amount of bite-sized for wrapping in bacon. If you can, buy them peeled and deveined to save yourself some prep time.

Season Generously

Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Garlic powder and paprika are fantastic, but you can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or even some smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, that extra oomph can elevate your dish!

Keep Bacon Cold

Working with cold bacon makes it easier to wrap around the shrimp. If you find it’s getting too warm and mushy, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes. This helps the bacon maintain its shape while cooking and ensures it gets nice and crispy.

Watch the Cooking Time

Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on your shrimp as they cook. If you’re using jumbo shrimp, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Just remember, you want that bacon to be crispy and the shrimp to be opaque and firm.

Use Toothpicks Wisely

Make sure to use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the shrimp, but remember to remove them before serving! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve nearly ruined a dinner party by forgetting that crucial step. Oops!

Pair with Dipping Sauce

Enhance the flavor even more by serving these shrimp with a fabulous dipping sauce. A tangy cocktail sauce, zesty lime aioli, or even a sweet chili sauce can bring a delightful contrast to the savory bacon and shrimp.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress everyone with your air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk about the goodness packed into these air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp! Each serving (which is about four shrimp) gives you a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical nutritional values:

Calories: 200
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and sizes of your ingredients. But isn’t it nice to know you can indulge in such a delicious appetizer while keeping it relatively light? Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself well!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these scrumptious air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp? No worries! I’ve got you covered. Here are some common questions and answers that’ll help you along the way.

Q1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before wrapping them in bacon. I usually leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.

Q2. What dipping sauces pair well with these shrimp?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! A classic cocktail sauce is always a hit, but I also love serving them with a spicy aioli or a sweet chili sauce for a nice contrast. You could even whip up a zesty lime dip to brighten things up!

Q3. How can I make these shrimp spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into your seasoning mix. You can also try wrapping the shrimp with spicy bacon, or serve them with a hot sauce on the side for an extra kick. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Q4. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can bake these bacon wrapped shrimp in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Just keep an eye on them to ensure that bacon gets crispy and the shrimp cooks through. You can achieve similar deliciousness, even without the air fryer!

Q5. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare but can happen!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore that crispy texture!

If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit with your air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp, you’re in luck! There are so many fun variations you can try to keep this dish exciting and tailored to your taste. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:

Spice It Up

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your seasoning mix. A pinch of chili powder gives a nice kick, too! You can even roll the shrimp in a spicy seasoning blend before wrapping them in bacon. Wow, your taste buds will be dancing!

Herbed Delight

If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, try adding finely chopped parsley or cilantro to the shrimp mixture. It brightens up the flavor and gives a fresh burst with every bite. You might even consider a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist!

Alternative Bacon Options

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the bacon! Turkey bacon offers a lighter option with a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for something richer, try wrapping the shrimp in prosciutto. It adds a gourmet touch that’s perfect for special occasions!

Different Types of Shrimp

While large shrimp are a classic choice, don’t hesitate to try this recipe with different varieties! Jumbo shrimp can be an amazing option if you want a meatier bite, or even shrimp with a bit of seasoning or marinade already on them for added flavor.

Stuffed Shrimp

For a satisfying twist, consider stuffing the shrimp with a cream cheese mixture or a blend of your favorite cheeses before wrapping them in bacon. It adds an extra layer of indulgence and makes every bite even more delightful!

With these variations, you can keep your air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp fresh and exciting, no matter how many times you make them. Enjoy experimenting, and don’t forget to share your favorite twists with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of these scrumptious air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp, storing them properly is key to keeping them tasty! Here’s how I do it:

Storing Leftovers

Let the shrimp cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. This helps lock in the flavors and keeps them fresh. You can store the shrimp in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just a quick tip: try to layer them gently to avoid crushing the crispy bacon!

Reheating for Best Results

When it comes to reheating, you’ll want to restore that glorious crispiness. The air fryer is my go-to for this! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and pop those shrimp back in for about 5 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how well they hold their texture!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also use the oven. Just place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them at the same temperature until they’re warmed through and the bacon crisps up again—around 10-15 minutes should do the trick.

Whatever method you choose, avoid the microwave if you can; it tends to make the bacon chewy, and we definitely want to keep that lovely crunch! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp. Enjoy!