Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Introduction

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a mouthwatering combination of savory, smoky, and crispy goodness. These bite-sized sausages are wrapped in strips of bacon, creating the ultimate indulgent treat. The contrast between the tender, flavorful little smokies and the crispy bacon is irresistible, making these a crowd favorite at parties, gatherings, or game day.

One of the reasons I love these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is their simplicity. Not only are they easy to make, but the recipe is also so versatile. You can adjust the flavors to suit your taste, adding seasonings like brown sugar for a sweet touch, or even incorporating a spicy glaze for an extra kick. Whenever I make them, they disappear almost immediately. The combination of salty bacon and savory sausage is just too good to resist.

The best part about making these little delights is how easily they come together in the oven. As the bacon crisps up, the savory aroma fills the air, making the anticipation all the more exciting. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or alongside a hearty meal, these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are sure to be a hit—just be sure to make extra, because they go fast!

Perfect For

These Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are perfect for party appetizers, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. They’re also a great finger food option for game days or when you simply crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Savory & Flavorful: Wrapped in an irresistible, crispy alternative to bacon, these smokies are savory and packed with flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: Easy to eat and a hit with children and adults alike.
• Quick & Simple: These little appetizers take only a few minutes to prepare and cook, making them a fantastic option when you’re short on time.
• Pork-Free: This recipe provides a perfect alternative for those avoiding pork, ensuring no one misses out on the flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 220 calories
• Key Nutrients Per Serving:
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Ingredients

For the Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies:

• 1 package of beef or chicken Little Smokies
• 1 package of turkey bacon or plant-based bacon, cut into halves or thirds
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• Toothpicks for securing the bacon

Ingredient Highlights

• Little Smokies: These mini sausages provide the delicious smoky flavor and a great base for your appetizer.
• Turkey or Plant-Based Bacon: Offers the crispy, savory element to the dish while being a perfect substitute for pork bacon.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance out the savory flavors, especially if you like a hint of sweet with your savory treats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bacon and Smokies:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Cut the turkey bacon or plant-based bacon into halves or thirds, depending on how long you’d like the strips to be.

Wrap the Smokies:

1. Take a piece of turkey bacon or plant-based bacon and wrap it around each Little Smokie, securing the bacon with a toothpick. If desired, sprinkle the wrapped bacon with a pinch of brown sugar for a sweet and savory twist.
2. Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and golden. If you’d like extra crispy bacon, broil the smokies for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking time, watching carefully to prevent burning.
2. Once done, remove the smokies from the oven and discard the toothpicks before serving.

How to Serve

Serve these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies as a party appetizer or snack. Pair them with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch for extra flavor. They’re also great for a quick and indulgent snack during your favorite movie or game.

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the bacon-wrapped smokies ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake as instructed when ready to serve.
• Alternative Meats: You can try using different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a bit of chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the brown sugar if you enjoy a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Stuffed:
  • Take your bacon-wrapped Little Smokies to the next level by stuffing them with cheese before wrapping them in bacon. To do this, simply make a small slit in the side of each Little Smokie and stuff a small piece of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or cream cheese for a rich, gooey center. The cheese will melt as the bacon crisps up, adding an indulgent, melty surprise in each bite. For extra flavor, you could experiment with smoked cheeses like Gouda or Mozzarella for a stretchy texture. This cheese-filled version is sure to please cheese lovers and brings an irresistible creamy contrast to the salty bacon.
• Honey BBQ:
  • For a sweet and savory twist, brush the bacon-wrapped smokies with honey BBQ sauce instead of brown sugar before baking. The honey BBQ sauce adds a sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy glaze that complements the rich bacon and savory smokies. You can make your own sauce with honey, ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and a little liquid smoke or use your favorite store-bought honey BBQ sauce for convenience. This variation creates a sticky, caramelized coating on the bacon, offering an even more flavorful bite. For added depth, you can sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top after baking for added texture and garnish.
• Vegan Version:
  • For a completely plant-based appetizer, use vegan sausage and plant-based bacon in place of traditional meat products. Many brands offer delicious vegan sausages made from tofu or seitan that mimic the flavor and texture of Little Smokies. Similarly, plant-based bacon products made from tempeh, rice, or soy offer a crispy, smoky texture without animal products. Once wrapped in the plant-based bacon, the preparation process remains the same, and you’ll have a fully vegan version of these delicious bacon-wrapped bites. This vegan variation is perfect for guests with dietary restrictions or those following a plant-based lifestyle, offering a delicious alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  • To store leftover bacon-wrapped smokies, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow the smokies to cool to room temperature before storing them, as hot food can create moisture, which could affect their texture. Storing them properly in an airtight container helps preserve their flavor and prevents them from becoming dry or soggy.
• Reheating:
  • To bring back the crispy exterior and warm center, reheating in the oven works best. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bacon-wrapped smokies on a baking sheet. Heat them for 5-10 minutes, checking midway through to ensure they don’t dry out. If the bacon starts to lose its crispness, you can broil them for the final 1-2 minutes to help restore the texture. This method ensures that the bacon stays crispy and the smokies remain juicy on the inside.
• Freezing:
  • For long-term storage, you can freeze the bacon-wrapped smokies before or after cooking. If freezing after cooking, place the baked smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Put them in the freezer for 1-2 hours until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer the smokies into an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Labeling the container with the date will help you keep track of their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the frozen smokies in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), and heat for 10-15 minutes or until they are thoroughly warmed through. Reheating from frozen helps maintain the bacon’s crisp texture and the smokies’ savory flavor.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Toothpicks

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
A: Yes, if you’re not following a pork-free diet, you can definitely use traditional bacon for extra flavor.

Q: Are these smokies spicy?
A: No, Little Smokies are generally mild. However, you can add spices or seasonings to the bacon before wrapping them if you prefer a bit of heat.

Q: Can I cook these on the grill instead of the oven?
A: Yes, you can grill them on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally until the bacon crisps up and the smokies are heated through.

Conclusion

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a savory and satisfying snack that brings together the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon and juicy, smoky sausages. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory bacon and tender sausages creates a deliciously indulgent bite, making them a hit at any event.

These bite-sized treats are customizable, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings or glazes to elevate the flavor even further. You can add a dash of brown sugar for a sweet-savory twist or drizzle with a tangy barbecue sauce for an extra zing. Serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them straight off the platter.

Make these tasty Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies for your next get-together, and get ready to watch them disappear quickly! Capture a photo of your tasty creation and share it on Instagram—tag me so we can celebrate your culinary success together. Happy cooking!