Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Stuffed with Cream Cheese and Crab Meat

Introduction

Looking for a mouthwatering appetizer that will impress your guests? Look no further! This recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cream cheese and crab meat is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and sweet crab meat are all wrapped in crispy bacon, creating a delightful bite-sized treat that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup lump crab meat
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry using a paper towel. Make a small incision along the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket to stuff the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lump crab meat, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp

Take a spoonful of the cream cheese and crab mixture and stuff it into the pocket of each shrimp. Be sure not to overstuff, as it may cause the shrimp to burst during cooking. Once all the shrimp are stuffed, set them aside.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed shrimp, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat this process for all the shrimp.

Step 5: Cook

Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. Flip the shrimp halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, remove the toothpicks from the bacon-wrapped shrimp and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

This recipe allows for some creative variations:

1. Spicy Kick

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese and crab filling.

2. Citrus Twist

Add a burst of citrus flavor by stirring in some freshly grated lemon or lime zest into the cream cheese mixture.

3. Grilled Option

If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the bacon-wrapped shrimp instead of baking them. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.

Conclusion

This recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cream cheese and crab meat is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to elevate your culinary skills, this recipe is a must-try. So go ahead, indulge in these delectable bites and savor the deliciousness!