Bacon Water Chestnuts(Preparation Time: 20 Minutes; Cooking Time: 45 Minutes)
Sweet and savory bacon-wrapped water chestnuts coated in a tangy chili-sugar sauce make this appetizer a crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook bacon in a large skillet on medium heat until almost cooked but still a bit limp.
- Drain the bacon slices.
- Wrap each water chestnut with a bacon strip and secure if needed.
- Place wrapped water chestnuts in a baking dish.
- Mix Miracle Whip, brown sugar, and chili sauce in a bowl to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes until bubbly and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier bacon wrap, consider broiling the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts for the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon, which also works well. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This dish can be served as an appetizer or a side, making it versatile for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious bacon-wrapped water chestnuts as a party appetizer or alongside a hearty main dish like Barbecue Roasts. They pair wonderfully with a crisp salad, such as Elaine'S Layered Salad, or a side of Excellent Breakfast Casserole for brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Water Chestnuts(Preparation Time: 20 Minutes; Cooking Time: 45 Minutes) contains roughly 188 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts ahead of time. Assemble them and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Miracle Whip?
If you prefer a more traditional flavor, you can substitute Miracle Whip with mayonnaise. For a tangy twist, Greek yogurt can be used, but it may alter the sweetness of the sauce slightly.
How do I know when the dish is done?
The bacon-wrapped water chestnuts are done when the sauce is bubbly and the bacon is nicely browned. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning, especially if your oven tends to cook unevenly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).