Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are a fun and tasty appetizer that’s both crispy and crunchy. The salty, smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the mild, slightly sweet crunch of water chestnuts. These little bites are a crowd-pleaser at parties or any time you want something easy to snack on.
I love making these because they come together so quickly, and you can pop them in the oven while you get other things ready. The bacon gets nice and crispy, locking in that satisfying crunch from the water chestnuts inside. A little tip: secure each wrap with a toothpick so they cook evenly and don’t fall apart.
Whenever I bring these to gatherings, people always ask for the recipe. They’re simple, but they feel special, and I think that’s part of why everyone likes them so much. Serve them warm, right from the oven, and watch them disappear fast. They’re perfect finger food for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Water Chestnuts: These give a nice crunch and mild sweetness. If you can’t find canned whole water chestnuts, try fresh peeled ones or substitute with peeled chestnuts for a different texture.
Bacon: Bacon adds smoky, salty flavor and crispiness. You can use turkey bacon for a leaner option, but it may be less crispy. Thin bacon works best to wrap without bulking up.
Brown Sugar: This is optional but helps create a sweet glaze that balances the bacon’s saltiness. If you prefer savory only, skip it or try a little maple syrup or honey instead.
How Do You Get Bacon Extra Crispy Without Burning the Water Chestnuts?
Balancing crispy bacon and tender chestnuts needs a little care. Here’s how I handle it:
- Preheat the oven well and use a foil-lined sheet for easy cleanup.
- Turn the bites halfway to crisp bacon evenly on all sides.
- Use thinner bacon slices or cut slices in half to cook faster without burning.
- If bacon isn’t crispy enough after baking, broil for 1-2 minutes—but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Pat water chestnuts dry so excess moisture doesn’t steam the bacon, helping it crisp up better.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a rimmed baking sheet to hold the bacon-covered water chestnuts and catch drippings.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil – makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Toothpicks – these secure the bacon wraps and make serving easy.
- Sharp knife – handy for cutting the bacon slices in half evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap water chestnuts for sliced jalapeños or mini sausages for a different flavor punch.
- Add a dash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of black pepper before wrapping for extra seasoning.
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.
- Try different bacon types—thick-cut for extra flavor or turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (8 oz) whole water chestnuts, drained and patted dry
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a caramelized finish)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20-25 minutes to bake, for a total time of about 30-35 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to keep things clean and make cleanup easy later.
2. Get the Water Chestnuts Ready:
Open the can of water chestnuts and drain them well. Use paper towels to dry them completely — this helps the bacon crisp up better.
3. Wrap Each Chestnut in Bacon:
If you like a slightly sweet touch, sprinkle the water chestnuts with brown sugar before wrapping. Then, take each water chestnut and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Secure it with a toothpick so it stays wrapped while cooking.
4. Bake Until Crispy:
Place the wrapped chestnuts on your prepared baking sheet, giving them a little room so they cook evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let them cool for a few minutes right out of the oven — they’ll be deliciously warm and crispy! Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or anytime you crave a tasty bite.
Can I Use Frozen Water Chestnuts?
Yes! If using frozen water chestnuts, thaw them completely in the fridge overnight and pat them dry well before wrapping in bacon to ensure crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them fresh before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
You can try turkey bacon for a leaner option, but keep in mind it may not crisp up as much. Alternatively, thinly sliced prosciutto or pancetta work well for a similar smoky flavor.