Baked Water Chestnuts
Baked water chestnuts wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a sweet ketchup mixture, offering a delightful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings that love bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each water chestnut with half a strip of raw bacon.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped chestnuts on a broiler tray.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until the bacon is crisp.
- While baking, mix sugar and ketchup in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Remove the wrapped chestnuts from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish.
- Pour the ketchup mixture over the chestnuts.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes at 350°F.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the water chestnuts in soy sauce or teriyaki sauce before wrapping them in bacon. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option, but keep in mind that it may not crisp up as well. If you want a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the ketchup mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked water chestnuts as a delightful appetizer or alongside cocktails. They pair beautifully with Pork Chops And Corn Dressing for a complete meal. Consider adding a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the bacon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chestnuts on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Water Chestnuts contains roughly 54 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 these water chestnuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped water chestnuts in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving for the best texture. You can also prepare the glaze ahead and store it separately.
What can I serve with baked water chestnuts?
These savory bites pair well with various dips like ranch or barbecue sauce. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and cured meats for a festive gathering.
How do I ensure the bacon cooks properly?
To ensure the bacon crisps up nicely, make sure to wrap it tightly around the water chestnut without overlapping too much. Baking at the right temperature and for the correct time will help achieve that crispy texture.
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).