Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp is a decadent and flavorful appetizer or main dish that combines the smoky crispness of bacon with the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese, all wrapped around tender shrimp. This dish is perfect for entertaining or a special dinner, offering a gourmet twist on classic bacon-wrapped bites. The combination of textures and flavors—the saltiness of the bacon, the creaminess of the cheese, and the delicate shrimp—creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on for presentation, optional)
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the shrimp: Make a small cut along the back of each shrimp (if needed) to create a pocket. Stuff each shrimp with a small amount of blue cheese crumbles.
- Wrap the shrimp: Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon is tightly wrapped so it stays in place while cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bacon is crisp but not fully cooked. Transfer the shrimp to the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked and the bacon is crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, discard the toothpicks, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve these Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp as an appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for an elegant meal!