Buttery Bacon Shrimp
Buttery Bacon Shrimp offers a rich, savory flavor with crispy cracker coating, perfect for seafood lovers and entertaining guests seeking a delicious, indulgent appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add dried chives, garlic powder, and pepper to the melted butter.
- Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Dip the shrimp into the butter mixture and roll in the cracker crumbs until well coated.
- Layer the coated shrimp in a baking dish.
- Add remaining cracker crumbs over the shrimp and pour the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. If you can't find bacon-flavored cracker crumbs, crushed regular crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of bacon seasoning work well. This dish can also be made with chicken or vegetables for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Buttery Bacon Shrimp over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or the hearty flavors of Onion Bacon Bread. For a casual gathering, consider serving it as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through, to retain their crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttery Bacon Shrimp contains roughly 462 calories, with 43g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (667% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1080mg per serving (47% 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 fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp can be used instead of frozen. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined, and adjust the cooking time if necessary, as fresh shrimp may cook faster than frozen. Keep an eye on them while baking to achieve the perfect texture.
What can I substitute for sweet cream butter?
If you don't have sweet cream butter, you can use unsalted butter or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil. Just be aware that the flavor may slightly change. You can also add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter to enhance the taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the butter mixture. You could also substitute some of the cracker crumbs with spicy tortilla chips for an added kick. Adjust the spice to your preference for the best results.
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).