Air Fryer Bacon Shrimp Skewers

Made with just three ingredients and in under 15 minutes, this air fryer bacon wrapped shrimp recipe is always a crowd favorite! Perfect as a party appetizer, game day snack, or a quick and satisfying bite.

“…this hotel always serves bacon-wrapped shrimp. That’s my number-one favorite food wrapped around my number-three favorite food.”

-Ron Swanson, Parks and Recreation

Fans of Parks and Recreation will remember Ron Swanson’s iconic line. And if you love bacon and shrimp, you’ll understand why this dish is so popular! It’s a simple yet irresistible combination that’s hard to beat.

Sometimes, shrimp might even be *your* number one favorite – or maybe it alternates with pasta, depending on your mood.

Regardless, bacon-wrapped shrimp is a universally loved appetizer and snack. The best part? It’s incredibly quick and easy to make in the air fryer!

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: The Perfect Appetizer

The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook! Its speed and convenience make it an indispensable kitchen appliance. Many people use the Air Crisp function of appliances like the Ninja Foodi or the Instant Pot Vortex air fryers on a daily basis.

Air fryers are fantastic for preparing quick and healthy vegetable side dishes like Air Fryer Broccoli. They’re also ideal for snacks like Air Fryer Ravioli and Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Rolls.

But the air fryer’s capabilities extend far beyond simple sides and snacks! You can even create elegant dishes like Air Fryer Lobster Tails and satisfying desserts like Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies.

And when it comes to combining the delightful flavors of bacon and shrimp, the air fryer truly shines. It’s the perfect method for creating the absolute BEST bacon-wrapped shrimp!

Essential Kitchen Tools and Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this recipe:

• Cutting board and knife: A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for slicing the bacon. To prevent cross-contamination, designate a cutting board specifically for meat.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to season the shrimp evenly.
• Air Fryer: Use your favorite air fryer! Options include the Ninja Foodi multi-cooker in Air Crisp mode, a basket-style air fryer, or a tray-style air fryer. Depending on the size of your shrimp and the capacity of your air fryer, you might need to cook in batches.
• Foil or parchment paper: As you wrap the shrimp in bacon, place them on a sheet of aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

The Simple 3-Ingredient Recipe

This recipe keeps it simple with just three core ingredients:

• Bacon: Opt for thinly sliced bacon rather than thick-cut. Thin bacon adheres better to the shrimp and cooks more evenly in the air fryer. Thick bacon can be difficult to wrap and may not crisp up properly.
• Shrimp: You can use frozen raw shrimp (thawed) or frozen cooked shrimp (thawed). If you are using thawed, frozen raw shrimp, add one minute to the total cooking time. Ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined for optimal flavor and texture.
• Seasoning: A simple seasoning blend elevates the dish. Johnny’s Seasoning Salt is a popular choice, but Old Bay Seasoning also works well. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference.

Optional: Avocado oil spray: A light coating of non-aerosol avocado oil spray prevents the shrimp from sticking to the air fryer basket or tray. Avoid aerosol sprays, as the chemicals can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in the Air Fryer

1. Ensure the shrimp is peeled, fully thawed, and at room temperature. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. You can remove the tails or leave them on, depending on your preference.
2. Season the shrimp generously with Johnny’s Seasoning Salt (or your preferred seasoning). Toss the shrimp in a bowl to ensure even coating on all sides.

3. Cut each bacon slice in half. Take one halved bacon slice and wrap it tightly around the meaty part of the shrimp, overlapping the layers. Secure the bacon end if needed.
4. Place the wrapped shrimp on a piece of foil or parchment paper to rest while you wrap the remaining shrimp.

5. Spray the inside of your air fryer basket or tray with a non-aerosol avocado oil spray or coconut oil spray.
6. Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp in the basket or on the tray in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the surface. Cook in batches if necessary.
7. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 4 minutes.
8. After 4 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the shrimp to the other side. Return the basket or tray and continue air frying for 5 to 6 more minutes, until the bacon is cooked through and crispy, and the shrimp is pink and opaque.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Enhance your bacon-wrapped shrimp experience with a variety of dipping sauces:

• Soy sauce
• Mustard (Dijon, honey mustard, or stone-ground)
• Sweet chili sauce
• Cocktail sauce

For a party or gathering, consider serving bacon-wrapped shrimp alongside these other delicious appetizers:

• Air Fryer Crab Rangoon
• Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
• Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
• Simple Fruit Salad
• Soft Pretzel Bites
• Tomato Bruschetta with Balsamic Vinegar

Wine Pairing Guide: The Best Wines to Enjoy with Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

While shrimp traditionally pairs well with white wine, the addition of bacon calls for a slightly different approach. Choose a medium- to full-bodied white wine that can stand up to the richness and saltiness of the bacon.

A well- oaked Chardonnay or a fragrant Viognier would complement bacon-wrapped shrimp beautifully. These wines also pair well with bacon shrimp pasta, as pictured above.

Explore More Delicious Seafood Recipes

If you enjoyed this air fryer shrimp recipe, try these other flavorful variations: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp and Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp. You might also like:

• Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Teriyaki
• Pan-Seared Salmon with Basil Pesto
• Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers
• Seafood Jambalaya
• Low Country Boil Foil Packets