Grilled Virginia Bacon-Wrapped Peanuts

Introduction

If you’re looking for the ultimate smoky-salty snack that combines the Southern charm of Virginia peanuts with the addictive crunch of crispy bacon, look no further. Bacon-Wrapped Virginia Peanuts cooked on the Arteflame grill are an unforgettable addition to any outdoor gathering. Using high-heat searing at the center followed by low and slow cooking on the flat top, this recipe delivers rich flavor and caramelized perfection—all without needing a pan or lid. It’s a gourmet snack, made entirely over flame, with zero cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup large Virginia peanuts (raw or roasted, unsalted)
• 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (for grilling)
• Toothpicks (pre-soaked in water for 30 mins)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up Your Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill base.
3. Stack hardwood firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and wait around 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.
5. Get ready to cook when the center grate reaches around 1,000°F and the flat griddle radiates outward with designated hot zones.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon-Wrapped Peanuts

1. Mix the Virginia peanuts with melted butter, paprika, cayenne (if using), and optional brown sugar.
2. Cut each bacon strip in half.
3. Place 3-4 peanuts at one end of each bacon half and roll tightly.
4. Secure each roll with a soaked toothpick.

Step 3: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Peanuts

1. Place the bacon peanut bundles near the hotter center section of the Arteflame flat top grill.
2. Sear each side for 1–2 minutes or until the bacon renders and crackles.
3. Move the bites toward the outer ring to finish cooking over medium heat to achieve crispy bacon and toasted peanut flavor.
4. Continue to grill for 6–8 more minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Remove and Rest

1. Once the bacon is browned and crisp, remove the bites when they are about 15°F under your desired doneness.
2. Let them rest on a wooden board or tray for 5–10 minutes to finish cooking in their own heat.

Tips

• Use thick-cut bacon to prevent over-shrinking during grilling.
• Pre-soaking toothpicks keeps them from burning.
• Monitor your bacon bites and adjust their location on the flat top to utilize different temperature zones—hotter toward the center, cooler near the edge.
• Melted butter enhances flavor better than oil and doesn't burn on the steel surface of the Arteflame.

Variations

1. Maple-Glazed Version: Brush bacon-wrapped peanuts with a maple syrup and Dijon mustard glaze for a sweet-savory twist.
2. Spicy Honey Sriracha: Drizzle with a mix of honey and sriracha before grilling for bold, spicy flavor.
3. Pepper Jack Infusion: Add a small cube of pepper jack cheese with the peanuts before rolling in bacon for a melty surprise.
4. Herbed Mediterranean: Mix peanuts with fresh rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest before wrapping.
5. BBQ Bacon Bombs: Dust the peanuts with a smoky barbecue dry rub and finish with a brush of BBQ sauce during the last few minutes.

Best pairings

• Cold craft lagers or hoppy IPAs
• Grilled peach and arugula salad
• Roasted corn with cotija and lime
• Grilled jalapeño poppers
• Chilled sparkling apple cider

Conclusion

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Virginia Peanuts are more than just a snack—they’re a conversation starter and showstopper. With the powerful heat control and expansive cooking surface of the Arteflame grill, every bite is crispy, smoky, and packed with Southern flavor. Whether you’re entertaining or looking to elevate your backyard BBQ snacks, this recipe guarantees bold flavor with minimal effort and practically no cleanup.