Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic crowd-pleaser that bring together smoky, savory flavors wrapped up in crispy, salty bacon. These little bite-sized sausages are the perfect party snack or…
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Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic crowd-pleaser that bring together smoky, savory flavors wrapped up in crispy, salty bacon. These little bite-sized sausages are the perfect party snack or appetizer, with bacon that crisps up just right and smokies that stay juicy inside.
I love making these for gatherings because they’re so easy to pop in the oven or even on the grill, and everyone always comes back for more. One of my favorite tricks is to add a touch of brown sugar or a little bit of barbecue sauce before baking to give that perfect sweet and smoky blend that keeps people guessing.
They’re great served warm right out of the oven, maybe with a side of mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. I always find that they make any get-together feel a little more special, whether it’s a casual family night or a fun weekend party. Plus, they’re super fun finger food that both kids and adults enjoy equally!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star here. You can swap with cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs if needed. Just pick something with a nice smoky or savory flavor.
Bacon: Regular bacon works great, but turkey bacon is an option for a lighter choice. Keep in mind turkey bacon won’t crisp up as much as pork bacon.
Brown Sugar: Adds a sweet, caramelized touch. You can skip it or use maple syrup or honey for a different sweet note.
Black Pepper: Adds a little kick to balance sweetness. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.
How Can I Make Sure the Bacon Stays Wrapped and Crispy?
Wrapping bacon around little smokies can be tricky. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut bacon in half so it’s easier to wrap around the small sausages without too many layers.
- Wrap tightly but not too tight, so the bacon doesn’t tear or curl.
- Secure with a toothpick if needed to hold the bacon in place while cooking.
- Place seam side down on the baking sheet to prevent unwrapping.
- Bake in a single layer and turn halfway to crisp evenly on all sides.
- Keep a close eye towards the end to avoid burning but still get that crispy finish.
These steps help you get perfectly crispy, tasty bacon wrapped around juicy little smokies every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to hold all the wrapped smokies in a single layer for even cooking.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – makes cleanup quick and prevents sticking.
- Sharp knife – for cutting bacon slices in half neatly and evenly.
- Toothpicks – handy to secure the bacon and keep it wrapped during baking.
- Tongs – helps turn the smokies halfway through to crisp each side nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Brush with barbecue sauce before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze that adds depth.
- Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to add a bit of heat and smokiness.
- Try maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a rich, sticky sweetness that pairs well with bacon.
- Wrap with pepper jack or cheddar cheese-stuffed sausages for an oozy, cheesy surprise inside.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb little smokies sausages (cocktail sausages)
- 8 oz bacon (about 8 slices)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: toothpicks for securing bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes before you have delicious Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with foil or parchment paper to make cleaning up easy.
2. Wrap the Smokies in Bacon:
Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to get about 16 half-slices. Take one little smokie and wrap it with one half-slice of bacon, starting at one end and wrapping it tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
3. Arrange and Season:
Place the bacon-wrapped smokies seam side down on your baking sheet to keep them from unraveling while cooking. If you like, sprinkle brown sugar over the top for a sweet glaze and add a little black pepper for extra flavor.
4. Bake Until Crispy:
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to help the bacon crisp evenly. When the bacon is golden and crispy, they’re ready!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let them cool for a couple of minutes, remove toothpicks, and serve warm. These are perfect as finger food with mustard, barbecue sauce, or your favorite dip.
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before wrapping with bacon to ensure even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the smokies in bacon and store them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake as directed when ready.
What Can I Serve with Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
They’re great with mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli for dipping. You can also serve them alongside cheese and crackers or fresh veggie sticks for a full appetizer spread.
