Skillet Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Introduction

Skillet Bacon Wrapped Smokies are an irresistible appetizer that combines the smoky goodness of little sausages with the crispy, savory delight of bacon. Each bite-sized piece is wrapped in bacon, caramelized to perfection with a hint of brown sugar, and cooked in a skillet until irresistibly crispy and flavorful. Whether for game day, holiday gatherings, or a casual snack, these smoky, bacon-wrapped bites disappear fast.

I prepare this dish by wrapping each smoky in a strip of bacon, securing it carefully before placing it in the skillet. As they sizzle, the bacon crisps up beautifully, releasing an aroma that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering anticipation. The brown sugar melts into a caramelized glaze, adding a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the smoky, salty flavors. Turning them ensures an even, golden crisp on all sides.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. Adding a sprinkle of cayenne for heat, a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness, or a touch of barbecue sauce can elevate the flavors even more. Skillet Bacon Wrapped Smokies aren’t just an appetizer—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Perfect For

I serve these at parties, game nights, and holiday gatherings. They also make a fun and flavorful addition to any appetizer spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Juicy: The turkey bacon crisps up beautifully while the smokies stay tender and juicy inside. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, flavorful center makes each bite irresistible. To get the best crisp, I make sure to cook them at the right temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet.
Sweet & Savory: The brown sugar coating adds a delicious caramelized glaze that perfectly balances the saltiness of the turkey bacon. As the sugar melts, it creates a slightly sticky, glossy finish that enhances every bite. For extra depth of flavor, I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Quick & Easy: I prepare everything in under 30 minutes, making this a go-to recipe for last-minute appetizers or party snacks. The simple steps—wrapping, coating, and cooking—make it easy to throw together with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option since I can assemble the smokies in advance and cook them when needed.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These always disappear fast at gatherings, whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a casual get-together. They’re bite-sized, fun to eat, and pair well with a variety of dips, like honey mustard or spicy sriracha mayo. No matter the event, these smokies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving Portion

This recipe makes about 24 bacon-wrapped smokies, serving 6-8 people.

Calories and Key Nutrients

Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
Protein: 9g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g

Ingredients

1 package (14 oz) little beef or chicken smokies
12 slices turkey bacon, cut in half
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon butter
Toothpicks for securing

Ingredient Highlights

Turkey Bacon: A leaner alternative that still crisps up perfectly.
Brown Sugar: Caramelizes beautifully for a sweet and smoky glaze.
Smoked Paprika: Enhances the depth of flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle kick for heat lovers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wrap the Smokies

I cut each turkey bacon slice in half to fit the little smokies.
I wrap each smokie tightly with a piece of turkey bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Coat with Seasoning

In a bowl, I mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
I roll each wrapped smokie in the mixture for an even coating.

Cook in the Skillet

I heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
I place the smokies seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
I rotate them occasionally for even browning.

Serve and Enjoy

I remove them from the skillet and let them cool slightly before serving.
I plate them with dipping sauces for extra flavor.

How I Serve It

I pair these with barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo. They also go well on a party platter with cheese and crackers.

Additional Tips

I let them rest before cooking so the bacon adheres better.
I increase heat slightly for extra crispiness.
I use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for the best results.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Version: I add extra cayenne or drizzle hot honey on top for a bold kick. The cayenne pepper intensifies the heat, making each bite more fiery, while hot honey adds a sweet-and-spicy contrast that enhances the overall flavor. If I want even more heat, I can sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or serve them with a side of spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli.
Glazed Version: I brush them with maple syrup while cooking for a deliciously caramelized finish. The maple syrup creates a glossy, slightly sticky coating that enhances the savory flavors with a touch of natural sweetness. For extra depth, I can mix a bit of Dijon mustard or balsamic vinegar into the syrup before glazing. This version pairs especially well with breakfast sides or as a unique appetizer for brunch gatherings.
Oven-Baked Option: I bake them at 375°F for 20-25 minutes for hands-free cooking. This method ensures even cooking without the need for constant flipping, making it perfect for preparing larger batches. To keep them extra crispy, I place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet so the heat circulates evenly. For a deeper golden-brown color, I finish them under the broiler for a minute or two before serving.

Freezing and Storage

Storing: I refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their texture and flavor while preventing them from drying out. If possible, I separate layers with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
Reheating: I warm them in a skillet over medium heat or bake at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through. Using a skillet gives them a nice crisp exterior, while baking is an easy hands-off option. If I’m in a hurry, I can microwave them in short intervals, but this method may make them slightly softer.
Freezing: I freeze uncooked, wrapped smokies and cook them straight from frozen for convenience. To prevent them from clumping together, I arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, I bake them at 375°F, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until they’re golden and crispy. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead for parties or quick snacks!

Special Equipment

Large Skillet: I use a large skillet to cook the smokies evenly and achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for preventing sticking and ensuring even heat distribution. If I’m making a big batch, I make sure not to overcrowd the skillet so everything cooks properly.
Tongs: I use tongs to easily turn and flip the smokies while cooking, ensuring they brown evenly on all sides. They also make it simple to transfer the cooked smokies to a serving dish without breaking or damaging them. For added convenience, I prefer silicone-tipped tongs to prevent scratching my cookware.
Mixing Bowl: I use a mixing bowl to toss the ingredients together before cooking. Whether I’m coating the smokies in seasoning, mixing a glaze, or preparing a dipping sauce, a sturdy bowl helps keep everything well combined. If I’m marinating the smokies beforehand, I use a bowl with a lid for easy storage in the fridge.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I prepare these in advance?
A: Yes! I wrap them the night before and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Q: Can I substitute turkey bacon with another option?
A: Yes, but I may need to adjust the cooking time for crispiness.

Q: How do I keep them warm for serving?
A: I place them in a slow cooker on “warm” to keep them hot.

Conclusion

Whip up Skillet Bacon Wrapped Smokies and enjoy a savory and crowd-pleasing snack that combines smoky bacon with tender sausages for an irresistible bite. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving a delicious appetizer. The sizzling bacon adds flavor and crunch, while the smokies remain juicy and flavorful—this recipe is a must-try for bacon lovers.

Get creative by experimenting with different seasonings or dipping sauces to elevate the flavor. Enjoy them as is, or serve with a side of your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy kick.

Cook a batch today, fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas, and share the joy. Snap a photo of your tasty creation and share it in all your social media accounts— be sure to tag me so we can celebrate your culinary success. Happy cooking!