bacon wrapped water chestnuts recipe
- The Best bacon wrapped water chestnuts recipe
- Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce
The Best bacon wrapped water chestnuts recipe
My kids love digging into these—especially when they’re served at the table with a side of ranch or a sprinkle of paprika for extra kick. They’re perfect for picky eaters because the bacon wraps hide the texture of the water chestnuts until you take a bite, making it feel like a treat rather than a veggie. And honestly, it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but takes almost no effort. You can even prep them ahead and reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick, mess-free meal. Plus, the water chestnuts are a great source of fiber and vitamins, so it’s not just about taste—it’s a little health boost too.

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce
Crispy, savory water chestnuts wrapped in bacon, smothered in a rich garlic tomato sauce. A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 150g) water chestnuts, peeled and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside. -
3
Place water chestnut halves on the baking sheet. Wrap each half with a bacon slice, pressing gently to seal. -
4
Bake for 15 minutes. Flip the water chestnuts, pour the sauce over them, and return to the oven for another 10–12 minutes until bacon is crispy and water chestnuts are tender.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Garlic Tomato Sauce
How do I store leftover bacon-wrapped water chestnuts?
Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway if using the microwave.
Can I use regular water chestnuts instead of the marinated kind?
Yes, but they may be slightly firmer and less sweet. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any bitterness, then proceed with the marinating step to soften them further. The texture will still be crispy when wrapped in bacon.
What if I don’t have a foil pan for baking?
Skip the foil pan and line a baking sheet with parchment paper instead. Place the wrapped chestnuts in a single layer and bake directly on the sheet. The paper will help prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How can I make sure the bacon stays crispy while baking?
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes before adding the chestnuts to ensure the air is hot. Bake on an oven rack that’s slightly above the tray to allow airflow around the bacon. If needed, flip the wrapped chestnuts halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Can I sub out the soy sauce marinade for another liquid?
If you’d like a different flavor profile, you can replace the soy sauce with a mix of equal parts rice vinegar and a little honey for a tangier sweetness. Alternatively, use a splash of teriyaki sauce or a pinch of miso paste for umami depth. Adjust the marinating time to 30–45 minutes to balance the flavors.
