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Keto Appetizers

Shrimp Kisses

These delightful shrimp kisses are one of my go-to keto appetizers for game day or holiday gatherings. The medley of tender shrimp, gooey Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. With just three ingredients and a quick bake, they’re as easy to make as they are to enjoy. I’ve found they’re perfect for impressing guests while keeping carbs in check.

15 min Prep time 15 min Cook time 30 min Total time 8 Servings 320 Calories
Shrimp Kisses

Ingredients

  • oz Monterey Jack cheese, cut into thin strips
  • large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
  • slices bacon, halved crosswise

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    First, preheat your oven to 450°F. While it’s heating, give those shrimp a quick check to make sure they’re butterflied properly—slice them almost in half lengthwise but leave the tail section connected so they open like a book. Now, take your cheese strips and place one inside each shrimp, gently pressing the shrimp back together to hold it in place. Then comes the fun part: wrapping. Take half a bacon slice and wrap it snugly around the shrimp, completely covering the cheese. Secure everything with a toothpick. I find that using a toothpick pushed through the thick part of the shrimp and bacon keeps it from unraveling in the oven. Arrange the wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet—no need to grease it since the bacon will render fat. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, keeping an eye on them

  2. Step 2

    the bacon should be crisp and the shrimp opaque. Let them cool for just a minute before serving because that cheese gets molten. They’re perfect straight out of the oven.

Chef's Tip

I always partially cook the bacon beforehand—just for a minute or two—so it gets extra crispy in the oven without overcooking the shrimp. Patting the shrimp dry ensures the bacon adheres better, too.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or in an air fryer to restore crispiness—skip the microwave to avoid soggy bacon.

Variation Tips

For a spicy kick, add a thin slice of jalapeño inside each shrimp before wrapping. Swap Monterey Jack with pepper jack or cheddar. Serve with a side of sugar-free cocktail sauce or creamy ranch dip for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions