This air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is the appetizer I reach for whenever I need something impressive on the table in under thirty minutes.
Juicy jumbo shrimp get wrapped in a half slice of bacon, seasoned simply, and air fried until the bacon turns golden and crisp.
No grill, no oven, no standing over a skillet watching for splatters. Just a basket full of sizzling, smoky, salty bites that disappear the second they hit the serving plate.
I first made this air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe for a last-minute get-together, and it has been on repeat ever since.
It works as a party appetizer, a quick weeknight dinner over rice, or a low-carb snack you can throw together with pantry basics.
This pairs beautifully with my Garlic Butter Shrimp with Veggies if you want to turn it into a full seafood spread.
| Quick Recipe Summary | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings (16 pieces) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Recipe
This recipe hits that sweet spot between easy and special occasion worthy.
It looks like something from a restaurant appetizer menu, but it only takes a handful of ingredients and one basket.
The air fryer does all the hard work here. It crisps the bacon evenly without turning the shrimp rubbery, and cleanup is basically nonexistent.
- Ready from fridge to table in about 25 minutes
- Only 5 main ingredients plus simple pantry seasonings
- Naturally low carb and high protein
- Perfect for game day, holidays, or a quick weeknight dinner
- Easy to scale up for a crowd or down for a cozy dinner for two
You might also enjoy: Baked Coconut Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
You only need a few ingredients for this recipe, and most of them are things you probably already have on hand.
Here is everything you will need to make this air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe.
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (21 to 25 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
- 12 to 16 slices regular cut bacon, halved lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional (bacon is already salty)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, optional, for a sweet and savory glaze
- 1 tablespoon honey, optional, for the glaze
- Wooden toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges, for serving
I learned this ratio of bacon to shrimp while perfecting my Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe, and it works just as well here.
Half a slice of bacon per shrimp is enough to wrap all the way around without too much overlap.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
This recipe does not require anything fancy, but a few tools make the process smoother and help you get consistent, evenly cooked results every time.
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Kitchen tongs
- Instant read meat thermometer
- Wooden or metal toothpicks
- Silicone basting brush, if using the glaze
Read Also: Air Fryer Fish Sticks Recipe
Recommended Products for This Recipe
These are a few products I personally use and recommend to make this recipe easier and more consistent.
None of these are required, but they do make a real difference in the kitchen.
1. Jumbo Shrimp, 21 to 25 Count
Sizing matters a lot for this recipe. Jumbo shrimp cook at roughly the same rate as the bacon wrapped around them, so you avoid the common problem of chewy shrimp or undercooked bacon.
Look for wild caught if you can find it, since the texture tends to hold up better in the air fryer.
2. Instant Read Meat Thermometer
Shrimp go from perfectly cooked to rubbery in about sixty seconds, so a quick read thermometer takes the guesswork out of the process.
I check for an internal temperature of about 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit and pull the shrimp right away.
3. Compact Digital Air Fryer
A good air fryer with even heat distribution is really the star of this whole recipe.
I like models with a wide, flat basket so the shrimp can sit in a single layer without touching, which is what gives you that crispy bacon on every side.
4. Silicone Basting Brush Set
If you are making the honey glaze version, a good silicone brush lets you coat the shrimp evenly without dragging off the bacon wrapping.
It also cleans up in seconds since silicone will not hold onto sticky glaze the way natural bristle brushes do.
This pairs beautifully with my Shrimp Cocktail Recipe if you are building out a full appetizer spread for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
1. Prep the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This step matters more than it sounds, since excess moisture keeps the bacon from crisping properly and can make the seasoning slide right off.
- If your shrimp still have shells on, peel them, leaving the tail intact for presentation if you like.
- Devein the shrimp if this has not already been done, running a small knife along the back to remove the dark vein.
- Set the prepped shrimp aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Season the Shrimp
- Drizzle the shrimp with the olive oil, tossing gently to coat every piece.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt (if using) evenly over the shrimp.
- Toss again with your hands or a pair of tongs until every shrimp is evenly coated in the seasoning blend.
- Let the shrimp sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare the bacon, so the seasoning has time to stick.
3. Prepare the Bacon
- Lay the bacon slices flat on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, slice each strip of bacon in half lengthwise so you end up with two long, thin strips per slice.
- Regular cut bacon works best here. Thick cut bacon often will not fully crisp in the same amount of time it takes the shrimp to cook through.
4. Wrap the Shrimp in Bacon
- Take one shrimp and one half strip of bacon.
- Starting near the tail end, wrap the bacon around the shrimp in a slight spiral, overlapping just enough to cover the shrimp with minimal gaps.
- Secure the end of the bacon with a soaked toothpick, piercing all the way through the shrimp and bacon to hold everything in place.
- Repeat with the remaining shrimp and bacon strips until all pieces are wrapped.
5. Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to help prevent sticking.
- Arrange the bacon wrapped shrimp in a single layer in the basket, seam side down so the bacon does not unravel during cooking.
- Leave a little space between each piece so air can circulate. Cook in batches if your air fryer basket is small.
6. Air Fry the Shrimp
- Air fry at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping each piece carefully with tongs halfway through the cooking time.
- Check for doneness around the 8 minute mark. The bacon should look golden and crisp, and the shrimp should be pink, opaque, and curled into a loose C shape.
- If using a meat thermometer, the shrimp should reach an internal temperature of about 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If the bacon needs another minute or two to crisp up fully, add 1 to 2 extra minutes at 390 degrees Fahrenheit and check again.
7. Add the Optional Glaze
- While the shrimp cook, whisk together the brown sugar and honey in a small bowl until combined.
- During the final 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze over each piece of shrimp using a silicone basting brush.
- Return the basket to the air fryer just long enough for the glaze to become sticky and slightly caramelized, watching closely so it does not burn.
8. Rest and Serve
- Carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer basket using tongs.
- Let the shrimp rest for 2 minutes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
- Remove the toothpicks if desired, or leave them in for easy serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Another favorite: Air Fryer Bacon Recipe
Tips for The Best Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
A few small details make a big difference between good bacon wrapped shrimp and truly great bacon wrapped shrimp. Keep these tips in mind as you cook.
- Use jumbo shrimp so the cooking time lines up with the bacon. Smaller shrimp will overcook long before the bacon crisps.
- Always use regular cut bacon rather than thick cut for this recipe.
- Pat the shrimp fully dry before seasoning so the spices actually stick.
- Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches so hot air can circulate around every piece.
- Soak your toothpicks in water first so they do not scorch in the air fryer.
- Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking for even crisping on all sides.
I picked up most of these tricks while working on my Marry Me Shrimp Pasta Recipe, since shrimp timing is just as important there.
Read Also: Air Fryer Turkey Cutlets Recipe
Serving Suggestions
This air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is flexible enough to serve as a starter, a main course, or a party snack.
Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it.
- As a party appetizer with toothpicks left in for easy grabbing
- Over a bed of rice or quinoa for a full dinner
- Alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal
- With a side of remoulade, cocktail sauce, or spicy aioli for dipping
- Tucked into lettuce wraps with avocado and lime
- Paired with roasted vegetables for a low carb dinner plate
Read Also: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Variations of Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Once you have the basic method down, this recipe is easy to customize based on what you are craving or what you already have in the fridge.
- Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning blend
- BBQ style: Brush the shrimp with your favorite barbecue sauce instead of the honey glaze
- Cajun style: Swap the garlic powder and paprika for a Cajun seasoning blend
- Turkey bacon version: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option, securing well with toothpicks since it can shift around more in the basket
- Cheese stuffed: Tuck a small cube of pepper jack cheese against the shrimp before wrapping
- Herb version: Add fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the seasoning for an earthier flavor
Another favorite: Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Storage and Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer while the bacon is still crisp, but leftovers reheat surprisingly well if you use the right method.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the air fryer at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes, until warmed through and the bacon re-crisps
- Avoid microwaving if possible, since it tends to make the bacon chewy and the shrimp rubbery
- These can be frozen after cooking. Freeze in a single layer on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months
- Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the air fryer
This pairs beautifully with my Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks Recipe if you are reheating a whole appetizer spread for round two.
Nutritional Facts
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, based on 4 pieces of bacon wrapped shrimp.
Exact values will vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use.
- Calories: approximately 290 kcal
- Protein: approximately 24 grams
- Fat: approximately 19 grams
- Carbohydrates: approximately 4 grams
- Sugar: approximately 2 grams
- Sodium: approximately 750 milligrams
You might also enjoy: Air Fryer Turkey Thighs Recipe
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Beyond being delicious, a few of the ingredients in this recipe bring some real nutritional value to the table alongside the indulgence of crispy bacon.
- Shrimp is a lean source of protein and provides selenium, which supports immune function
- Garlic powder contains compounds linked to heart health when used regularly in cooking
- Smoked paprika is made from dried peppers and contains antioxidants called carotenoids
- Olive oil provides heart healthy monounsaturated fats
- Lemon adds a boost of vitamin C when served alongside the finished dish
This same idea of balancing protein with bright, fresh flavors is something I lean on a lot in my Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe as well.
Read Also: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
FAQs About Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them very dry before seasoning.
Excess moisture from frozen shrimp will prevent the bacon from crisping properly in the air fryer.
2. Why is my bacon not getting crispy?
This usually happens when the bacon is too thick or the basket is overcrowded.
Stick with regular cut bacon and leave space between each piece so hot air can circulate on all sides.
3. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating for a few minutes helps the bacon start crisping right away instead of steaming.
Most air fryer models only need 3 to 4 minutes to reach temperature.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can wrap the shrimp in bacon up to 24 hours ahead of time.
Store them covered in the refrigerator and air fry them fresh when you are ready to serve.
5. What size shrimp works best?
Jumbo shrimp, around 21 to 25 per pound, work best for this recipe.
Their cooking time matches up well with how long it takes the bacon to crisp, so nothing ends up overcooked or underdone.
Read Also: Air Fryer Turkey Tenderloin Recipe
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp 21 to 25 count, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 12 slices regular cut bacon halved lengthwise to make 24 strips, about 1 pound
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt optional, bacon is already salty
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar optional, for sweet and savory glaze
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for glaze
- wooden toothpicks soaked in water for 10 minutes
- fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- lemon wedges for serving
- cocktail sauce for dipping
- spicy aioli for dipping
- remoulade for dipping
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Kitchen tongs
- Instant-read meat thermometer (optional)
- Wooden or metal toothpicks soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10 minutes
- Silicone basting brush (optional, for glaze)
Method
- Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels. If needed, peel and devein shrimp, leaving tails intact. Place in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle shrimp with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt (if using) over shrimp. Toss until evenly coated. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Lay bacon slices flat on cutting board and slice each strip in half lengthwise to create two long, thin strips per slice.
- Starting near the tail end, wrap one half-strip of bacon around each shrimp in a slight spiral, overlapping just enough to cover the shrimp. Secure the end with a soaked toothpick. Repeat with remaining shrimp and bacon.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F for 3-4 minutes. Lightly spray basket with cooking spray. Arrange wrapped shrimp in a single layer, seam side down, leaving space between each piece.
- Air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping carefully with tongs halfway through. Cook until bacon is golden and crisp and shrimp is pink, opaque, and curled into a loose C shape (internal temperature 120-125°F).
- If using glaze, whisk brown sugar and honey together. During the final 1-2 minutes of cooking, brush glaze over each shrimp. Return to air fryer just until glaze becomes sticky and slightly caramelized.
- Remove shrimp from basket with tongs and let rest on paper towels for 2 minutes. Remove toothpicks or leave in for serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use jumbo shrimp (21-25 count) so cooking time matches the bacon. Smaller shrimp will overcook before bacon crisps.
- Always use regular cut bacon rather than thick cut for this recipe. Thick cut won’t crisp in the same amount of time.
- Pat shrimp fully dry before seasoning so spices actually stick and bacon gets crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches so hot air circulates around every piece.
- Soak wooden toothpicks in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent them from scorching in the air fryer.
- Flip shrimp halfway through cooking for even crisping on all sides.
- If bacon needs more crispiness, add 1-2 extra minutes at 390°F and check again.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer at 380°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning blend.
- For BBQ style, brush with barbecue sauce instead of honey glaze during the final 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- These can be frozen after cooking. Freeze in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Turkey bacon can be used as a lighter option, but secure well with toothpicks as it can shift more in the basket.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is one of those dishes that always feels a little fancier than the effort it actually takes.
It is quick, it is easy to customize, and it always disappears fast whenever I put it out for guests.
Give this recipe a try the next time you need an appetizer that comes together in under thirty minutes.
I would love to hear how it turns out for you, so drop a comment below or share a photo if you make it.
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