Picture this: a cozy gathering with laughter, the smell of sizzling bacon wafting through the air, and a plate of irresistible Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies stealing the show. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or just a fun family night. The combination of crispy bacon and savory little smokies creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Plus, they’re so simple to prepare that you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making them sooner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These little bites are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing.
- Quick to prepare and bake, making them ideal for busy schedules.
- Perfect blend of smoky, salty, and sweet flavors.
- Versatile enough to customize with different sauces or spices.
- Great for parties, potlucks, or just as a tasty snack.
My Experience Making This Recipe
Every time I whip up a batch of these little delights, my kitchen fills with a mouthwatering aroma that makes my neighbors jealous. When I serve them, they disappear faster than I can say “bacon!”
Last time, I made them for a game night, and I was practically a celebrity. Everyone kept asking for the recipe, which made me feel like a kitchen rockstar!
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Course: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
- Calories per Serving: 200
Equipment You Will Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Cooking spray or oil
- Toothpicks
- Oven
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- 1 pound little smokies sausages
- 1 pound bacon, cut into thirds
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional for dipping)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Little smokies: These bite-sized sausages give the perfect savory flavor. You can substitute with cocktail sausages if needed.
- Bacon: The crispy texture enhances the dish. Turkey bacon can be a lighter option, but it won’t crisp as nicely.
- Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors. You can use maple syrup or honey for a different twist.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and gets crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help with cleanup and prevent sticking.
Step 3: Wrap the Smokies
Take a little smokie and wrap it with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. The bacon adds flavor and keeps the smokie juicy.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the wrapped smokies on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are not touching, as this helps them cook evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Brown Sugar
If you’re using brown sugar, sprinkle it over the wrapped smokies. This adds a delicious caramelized layer as they bake.
Step 6: Bake
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. This allows the bacon to crisp up nicely while the smokies warm through.
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you like your bacon extra crispy, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with barbecue sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce before baking.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier bite and better texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps the bacon crisp up.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or spices on the bacon.
- Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
- Make a double batch; they go fast!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using thin bacon may result in soggy bites; thick-cut is best.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet prevents crispiness.
- Skipping the toothpicks can lead to messy bites and bacon unwinding.
Serving Suggestions
These little smokies shine as a party appetizer, but they can also be served at family gatherings. Consider complementing them with the following:
- Spicy mustard for dipping
- Macaroni and cheese bites
- Vegetable platter with ranch dip
- Potato skins
- Buffalo chicken dip
Variations to Try
- Add jalapeño slices inside the wrap for a spicy kick.
- Use different sauces like teriyaki for a sweet-savory twist.
- Wrap in prosciutto for an elegant touch.
- Substitute turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter version.
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-free: Check bacon and sausage labels for gluten-free options.
- Dairy-free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free; no adjustments needed.
- Vegan/Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausages and vegan bacon alternatives.
- Low-carb/Keto: This dish is already low in carbs, making it perfect for keto diets.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they cool completely before sealing.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezer
You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat directly from frozen if you’re in a hurry.
Reheating
For reheating, place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the bacon crispy.
- A microwave can be used, but it may make the bacon chewy.
- Broiling for a few minutes can restore crispiness.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
This nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
You can use maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, but keep in mind that turkey bacon might not get as crispy.
Can I bake them without toothpicks?
It’s not recommended, as the bacon may unwrap during cooking.
Final Thoughts
Making Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is a delightful way to impress your guests while keeping things simple. They are a perfect blend of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
So why not give this recipe a try at your next gathering? And while you are at it, check out my candied bacon recipe or try making million dollar bacon for an unforgettable experience!
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped smokies on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the wrapped smokies if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly and serve warm with barbecue sauce.