Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Just when you thought food couldn't get any better, all you have to do......is wrap it in Bacon.  In our house, we're beyond infatuated with anything pork related....Pork Belly, Pork Butt, Pork Chops, Ham, Bacon, Sausage....you get the idea. So for a simple, quick and delicious appetizer I always turn to my recipe for Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.  The combination of the salty, smokey flavor of the bacon, the subtle seafood taste of the shrimp, a few spices, and some melty gooey cheese, your guests will think you've hit the apex of cooking glory.  Not only is the flavor incredible, but these are so simple to assemble which is great if you're hosting a big party and want to be able to have delicious appetizer before the main meal.  Also, try experimenting with different cheeses....I use either Cheddar Cheese or Monterey Jack because the bold flavors are able to stand up to the bold flavor of the shrimp.

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Yields: 12 servings

6 slices Bacon

12 large Shrimp, raw & de-shelled

12 1-inch cubes of Cheddar Cheese or Monterey Jack Cheese

Paprika

Onion Powder

Turmeric

Tooth Picks

1.  Toss the Raw Shrimp in a sprinkling of Paprika, Onion Powder and Turmeric – just enough to lightly coat the shrimp.

2.   Cut each of the bacon strips in half to get 12 strips.  In a sauté pan, cook the shrimp halfway just to render off some fat – but you still want them somewhat raw so that they’re pliable and bendable.  Lay semi-cooked bacon on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

3.     Once cooled, take one piece of bacon, lay one shrimp in the middle, top with one cube of cheddar cheese and wrap the bacon around it all.  Secure it together with a toothpick.  Repeat this process with the rest of your shrimp, bacon and cheddar.

4.   In a 450-degree oven, cook on an ungreased baking sheet for 10 minutes, serve right away.

This is a dish that will impress everyone and make your home smell INCREDIBLE....I would wear bacon scented perfume if I could without being shunned from society.