Get ready to transform your appetizer game with the most irresistible party snack that combines spicy, sweet, and smoky flavors in one epic bite! These Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Shrimp aren't just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure that will have your guests begging for more. Imagine crispy bacon hugging succulent shrimp, nestled with a spicy jalapeno kick, and glazed with an addictive cherry cola BBQ sauce that will make your mouth water before you even take the first bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 pieces
Ingredients
- 24 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 12 jalapenos, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cherry cola
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place a wire rack on the baking sheet for better air circulation and crispiness.
- Prepare the jalapenos by carefully slicing them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and membranes using a small spoon. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the capsaicin.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they will crisp up properly when wrapped. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap each shrimp and jalapeno half with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- For the Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce, combine cherry cola, BBQ sauce, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens to a glaze-like consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped shrimp and jalapenos on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Brush generously with the prepared Cherry Cola BBQ sauce.
- Serve immediately as an appetizer or party snack, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Always wear gloves when handling jalapenos to prevent skin irritation from capsaicin.
- Pat shrimp completely dry to ensure crispy bacon wrapping.
- Use a wire rack when baking to allow hot air circulation and achieve maximum crispiness.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each piece space for even cooking.
- For less heat, remove all seeds and membranes from jalapenos.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it doesn't stay in place.
- Watch the shrimp closely while baking to prevent overcooking.
- Let the BBQ sauce reduce completely for a more concentrated flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
