Bacon Wrapped Prawns Recipe

Prepare prawns

If not already done, peel and devein the prawns leaving the tails intact. Pat prawns dry with paper towels; dry surface helps bacon adhere and crisp.

Prep bacon

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise (you will have 16 half-slices). Optionally partially cook bacon: arrange halves on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes to render some fat but not fully crisp — this helps bacon wrap without undercooking the prawn.

Marinade

In a bowl whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, black pepper and salt. Add prawns and toss to coat evenly. Marinate 10 minutes at room temperature (no more than 30 minutes).

Wrap prawns

Take one prawn and one half-slice of bacon, place the bacon at the base of the prawn (near the thicker end) and tightly wrap toward the tail, leaving tail exposed for a handle. Secure with a small wooden toothpick if needed. Repeat for all prawns.

Cook — oven method

Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (allows bacon to crisp). Arrange wrapped prawns on the rack. Brush any remaining marinade lightly over the bacon-wrapped prawns. Bake 10–12 minutes until bacon is crisp and prawns are opaque and firm (internal temp ~60°C/140°F). If you want extra crispness, broil 1–2 minutes watching closely to prevent burning.

Cook — grill/skillet alternative

For grill: preheat to medium-high and oil grates. Place prawns seam-side down and grill 2–3 minutes per side until bacon crisp and shrimp cooked. For skillet: heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear prawns seam-side down for 2–3 minutes, then turn and cook 1–2 more minutes until done. Use toothpicks to secure as needed.

If using glaze, combine maple syrup (or honey), soy sauce and chili flakes in a small bowl. During the last 2 minutes of oven cooking or during the final minute on the grill/pan, brush glaze over the bacon-wrapped prawns. Return to heat just long enough for glaze to set and become slightly sticky (30–90 seconds).

Transfer prawns to a serving platter, remove any toothpicks. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the prawns and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing.