Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Stuffed with Cream Cheese and Chives

Introduction

Impress your guests with this delicious and indulgent appetizer that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and fresh chives. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a special treat for yourself. Follow the simple steps below to create these irresistible bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cream cheese and chives.

Ingredients

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toothpicks

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry using a paper towel. Make a shallow cut along the back of each shrimp, being careful not to cut all the way through. This will create a pocket for the cream cheese stuffing.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Stuff the Shrimp

Taking about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture, stuff it into the pocket you created in 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, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Place the baking sheet with the bacon-wrapped shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cream cheese and chives can be served as an appetizer or as part of a main course. They pair well with a variety of dips, such as sweet chili sauce, garlic aioli, or even a tangy cocktail sauce. Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing, and watch them disappear within minutes!

Conclusion

This recipe for bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with cream cheese and chives is a surefire way to elevate any occasion. The combination of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and fresh chives creates a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering appetizer!