Bacon-wrapped little smokies are the ultimate party snack! Just think of juicy sausages hugged in crispy, smoky bacon. Can it get better? I don’t think so!
These are so easy to make, just roll the smokies in bacon, bake, and watch them disappear. I love serving them with a tasty dip—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These tiny sausages are key to this recipe. If you’re looking for something different, you can try chicken or turkey sausages for a leaner option.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon because it adds a lot of flavor and crispiness. If you’re cutting back on fat, turkey bacon could be a lighter alternative, though it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: Adding brown sugar gives these smokies a sweet touch. If you prefer a sugar-free option, you could sprinkle some smoked paprika or a dash of honey for a different flavor profile.
Barbecue Sauce: This is perfect for dipping! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own at home if you’re feeling adventurous.
What’s the Best Way to Wrap Bacon Around Little Smokies?
Wrapping bacon around little smokies is simple, but there are a few tricks to make it easier. First, cut the bacon into manageable pieces and work quickly to keep it from getting too stiff. Wrapping snugly, but not overly tight, ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Start by rolling one slice of bacon around the smokie, overlapping slightly.
- Secure it with a toothpick to hold everything together during baking.
- To add extra flavor, consider rolling the smoky in brown sugar before wrapping it. This creates a sweet glaze as it bakes.
- Don’t forget to space them out on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (14-16 oz) little smokies sausages
- 10-12 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- Toothpicks (to secure bacon)
- Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar (for a sweet glaze)
- Optional: 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (for serving or glazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze later on!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Take your bacon slices and cut them in half across. This gives you shorter pieces that are just the right size to wrap around the little smokies, making everything manageable and tasty!
3. Add Some Sweetness (Optional):
If you want to add a sweet glaze, sprinkle brown sugar evenly on a plate. This step is optional but adds a delicious caramelized flavor to the smokies.
4. Wrap the Smokies:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one little smokie, roll it in that brown sugar if you decided to use it, then wrap a half-slice of bacon around it. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold everything in place. Keep going until all little smokies are wrapped and ready!
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped little smokies on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out a little so they can cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
6. Bake:
Put your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn them over halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get crispy and browned.
7. Finish with Barbecue Sauce (Optional):
If you want to add more flavor, you can brush some barbecue sauce over the little smokies during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a tasty glaze that complements the bacon perfectly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, pull the baking sheet out of the oven and let the smokies cool for just a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious party treat!
Now you have an irresistible batch of crispy, smoky, and juicy bacon-wrapped little smokies to impress your friends and family! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Standard Sausages Instead of Little Smokies?
Absolutely! You can substitute little smokies with standard sausage links or cocktail sausages. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger sausages may take longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can assemble the bacon-wrapped smokies ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re going in cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or briefly in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or seasonings to the brown sugar for extra flavor. Options like garlic powder, paprika, or black pepper can give your smokies a unique kick!
