If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast, these bacon wrapped water chestnuts are it. Crispy bacon, crunchy water chestnuts, and a sticky sweet-savory glaze come together in one bite that’s salty, sweet, and completely addictive.
This recipe has been a holiday classic for decades, and for good reason: it’s easy, budget-friendly, and requires just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or planning a game-day spread, this is one appetizer you can always count on.
The best part? You don’t need fancy tools or advanced cooking skills. If you can wrap bacon and turn on the oven, you’ve got this.
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Why Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Are Always a Hit
There’s something magical about the contrast in this dish:
- Crunchy water chestnuts
- Crispy, salty bacon
- Sweet, sticky brown sugar glaze
They hit every flavor note people love in an appetizer. Plus, they’re:
- Easy to scale for a crowd
- Budget-friendly
- Great warm or at room temperature
No wonder they dominate Pinterest boards every holiday season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need simple pantry staples:
- Whole water chestnuts (canned)
- Bacon (cut in half)
- Brown sugar
- Ketchup
- Soy sauce
- Garlic powder
- Toothpicks
That’s it. No fancy sauces. No hard-to-find ingredients.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Drain and rinse the water chestnuts, then pat them dry. Cut each bacon slice in half.
Step 2: Wrap the Chestnuts
Wrap one piece of bacon around each water chestnut and secure with a toothpick. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the sauce evenly over the wrapped chestnuts. Bake uncovered until the bacon is cooked and the sauce is thick and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Let them cool slightly (the glaze is hot!) and serve warm.
Easy Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Ingredients
- 2 cans whole water chestnuts drained and rinsed
- 1 lb bacon slices cut in half
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Drain and rinse the water chestnuts, then pat them dry.
- Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each water chestnut and secure with a toothpick. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Pour the glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped water chestnuts.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the sauce is bubbling. Optionally broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization (watch closely).
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Tips for Perfect Crispy Bacon
- Use regular-cut bacon, not thick-cut (it cooks more evenly)
- Bake uncovered so the bacon crisps
- Place pieces snug but not overlapping
- Flip once halfway through if needed
If you like extra caramelization, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—watch closely.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make ahead:
Assemble everything up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Store leftovers:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Warm in the oven at 350°F for best texture. Avoid the microwave if possible.
Serving Ideas & Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Swap ketchup for BBQ sauce
- Serve on skewers for parties
- Pair with veggie trays or cheese boards
These also work great alongside wings, sliders, or dips.
Is Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Healthy?
Calories & Nutrition Facts
Bacon wrapped water chestnuts are best enjoyed as an occasional appetizer, not an everyday meal. They’re higher in calories due to the bacon and brown sugar glaze.
Protein Content
Thanks to the bacon, each piece provides a small amount of protein, making it more filling than carb-only snacks.
Are They Weight-Loss Friendly?
While delicious, this isn’t a low-calorie dish. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially during holidays or parties.
FAQ: Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Can I make bacon wrapped water chestnuts ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to a day ahead and bake just before serving.
Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
No. Regular-cut bacon cooks fully in the oven.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, but cook in batches and reduce sauce to avoid burning.
Are water chestnuts actually nuts?
No! They’re a crunchy aquatic vegetable.
Can I freeze bacon wrapped water chestnuts?
Not recommended—the texture suffers after freezing.
Final Thoughts
These bacon wrapped water chestnuts are the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and guaranteed compliments every time.
If you’re building a go-to appetizer list, this one deserves a permanent spot.
👉 Save it, pin it, and make it once—you’ll be asked for the recipe forever.