Barbecued Bacon-Shrimp Skewers
Juicy shrimp and crispy bacon skewers coated in Cajun seasoning and barbecue sauce, perfect for grilling gatherings and outdoor cookouts with bold smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact.
- Butterfly the shrimp by cutting halfway through along the outside curve.
- Place the prepared shrimp in a medium bowl and add Cajun seasoning.
- Toss the shrimp to coat evenly with the seasoning.
- Add barbecue sauce and stir to coat the shrimp thoroughly.
- Let the shrimp sit for 30 minutes to marinate.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. If shrimp isn't available, you can substitute with chicken or firm tofu for a different texture. Ensure the bacon is well-cooked to prevent it from becoming chewy when grilled. Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use can prevent burning on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
These Barbecued Bacon-Shrimp Skewers are perfect for a summer cookout and pair beautifully with a refreshing coleslaw or a light salad. Serve them alongside grilled vegetables or with a side of Corn on the Cob for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider offering John'S Classic Oven Baked Beans for a satisfying addition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the skewers on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Bacon-Shrimp Skewers contains roughly 291 calories, with 40g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1727mg per serving (75% 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 use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. A quick method is to place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures they are ready to absorb the Cajun seasoning and barbecue sauce flavor.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A tangy or sweet barbecue sauce complements the spicy Cajun seasoning well. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce. If you prefer a smokier flavor, opt for a hickory or mesquite barbecue sauce to enhance the overall taste of the skewers.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the shrimp several hours in advance or even the night before. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste when cooked.
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).