Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a yummy little snack that brings together something crunchy, juicy, and smoky all in one bite. The crisp bacon wraps around the tender water chestnuts, creating a perfect combo of textures and flavors that everyone loves.
I always enjoy making these for parties or casual get-togethers because they’re so easy to pop in your mouth and impossible to eat just one of. I like to brush them with a little brown sugar or a touch of soy sauce before baking to add a bit of sweet and salty goodness that really makes the bacon shine.
Serving them warm right out of the oven is the best way to enjoy these. I often lay them out on a pretty platter and watch how fast they disappear—trust me, they’re a total crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s simple, tasty, and always brings smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water Chestnuts: These add a nice crunch and mild sweetness. If you can’t find whole water chestnuts, canned sliced ones work but whole pieces are best for wrapping.
Bacon: Regular or thin-cut bacon both work. Thin bacon crisps faster, while thick bacon gives a meatier bite. Turkey bacon is a leaner substitute but may be less crispy.
Brown Sugar: This is optional but adds a lovely sweet glaze that balances the salty bacon. You can swap it with maple syrup or honey for a different sweet touch.
How Can I Get Crispy Bacon Without Burning It?
Wrapping bacon around a small item like a water chestnut can lead to uneven cooking. Here’s how to get crispy, evenly cooked bacon:
- Use a wire rack over a baking sheet so heat circulates all around the bacon.
- Turn the bites halfway through baking to crisp all sides.
- If bacon curls, secure well with toothpicks to keep close to the chestnut.
- Keep an eye on cooking time—about 25-30 minutes at 375°F is usually just right.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – I like using this to help the bacon crisp evenly all over.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the pan clean.
- Toothpicks – they hold the bacon in place while baking and can be removed easily before serving.
- Sharp knife – helps cut bacon into even pieces for wrapping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use Dijon mustard or a splash of soy sauce brushed on before baking for extra flavor.
- Add a small slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce inside for a spicy kick.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or paprika on the bacon before baking for smoky spice.
- Try wrapping water chestnuts with prosciutto or ham for different meat flavors.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 12 slices of bacon (regular or thin-cut)
- Toothpicks
Optional Sweet Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. The total time is around 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and tasty appetizer option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to keep things clean. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet to help the bacon crisp evenly.
2. Wrap the Water Chestnuts:
Cut each bacon slice into thirds or halves, depending on the size of your water chestnuts. You want just enough bacon to wrap around each chestnut snugly. Wrap one piece of bacon around each water chestnut and stick a toothpick through the middle to hold it together.
3. Add Sweet Glaze (Optional):
If you like a sweet touch, sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon-wrapped chestnuts or gently press a little onto each piece. This step adds a lovely caramelized flavor when baked.
4. Bake Until Crispy:
Place the wrapped chestnuts spaced out on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning them once halfway through, until the bacon is nicely browned and crispy.
5. Cool and Serve:
Take them out of the oven and give them a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer that’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Water Chestnuts?
It’s best to use canned or fresh water chestnuts for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid extra moisture that can affect the bacon’s crispiness.
Can I Prepare Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble them and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best crispy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to help keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon works fine as a leaner alternative. Keep in mind it may cook faster and can be less crispy, so watch it closely while baking.