These tasty BLT shrimp rolls are a fun twist on a classic! With shrimp, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes wrapped up in a soft roll, they’re sure to make your taste buds happy!
These rolls are perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. I love how easy they are to whip up; just mix, roll, and enjoy! It’s like a summer picnic in every bite! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for this recipe. If shrimp isn’t available, you can use crab meat or even cooked chicken for a different twist. Frozen shrimp also works well; just thaw them beforehand.
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, savory taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or crispy mushrooms instead.
Brioche Hot Dog Buns: Brioche buns are light and buttery, perfect for this dish. If you can’t find brioche, any soft hot dog bun or even lettuce wraps can work for a low-carb alternative.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise gives creaminess. Instead, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you want a lighter or plant-based option. Adding garlic or herbs can elevate the flavor.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but getting it just right enhances the flavor significantly. Here are simple steps to help you achieve perfectly cooked shrimp:
- Start with preheating your skillet to medium heat. This helps shrimp cook evenly without burning.
- Add the shrimp and avoid crowding the pan; this ensures they cook quickly and get a nice sear.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep an eye on them!
How to Make BLT Shrimp Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Shrimp Rolls:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4 brioche hot dog buns
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and cooking the shrimp and bacon, plus a little time assembling the rolls. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a casual meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by preheating your skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the bacon strips. Cook them until they are nice and crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the bacon and let it drain on some paper towels to soak up the extra grease.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, drain off some of the bacon fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan. Now add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season your shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for some extra flavor. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Take them off the heat when they’re done.
3. Prepare the Sauce and Toast the Buns:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the lemon juice and stir well. This will be your zesty sauce! Next, take the brioche hot dog buns and lightly toast them in the skillet until they are warm and slightly crispy. This should only take a minute or two.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
Now comes the fun part! Take each toasted bun and spread a generous layer of the lemon mayonnaise inside. Add a handful of shredded romaine lettuce, a slice or two of tomato, crispy bacon pieces, and finish it off with the cooked shrimp. Make sure to pack them nicely!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once you’ve assembled all your shrimp rolls, serve them immediately with some lemon wedges on the side. The extra squeeze of lemon will add a refreshing touch to your BLT Shrimp Rolls. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear!
What If I Don’t Have Brioche Buns?
No problem at all! You can use any hot dog buns or even a toasted ciabatta roll for a different flavor. Just be sure that the buns are sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, lettuce wraps work great too!
How to Store Leftover Shrimp Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. It’s best to keep the components separate (shrimp, bacon, and veggies in one container, and the buns in another) to prevent the buns from getting soggy. Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet before assembling again.
Can I Make the Mayonnaise Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the lemon mayonnaise up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a little stir before using. It will even develop a bit more flavor as it sits!
