Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty appetizer that everyone will love, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family night, these little bites never fail to impress. The combination of crispy bacon and savory little smokies creates an irresistible flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute snack cravings. Plus, they are always a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty treats in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet and savory flavors, making this dish perfect for family gatherings.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer or snack, these bacon wrapped delights fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Satisfying flavor: The combination of bacon and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smokies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for this recipe! You likely already have most of them on hand. Let’s gather what we need to make these delightful Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies:

For the Main Dish

• 1 lb of Bacon
• 1 1/2 lb pack of Little Smokies (24 oz)
• 2/3 cup Brown sugar
• 1 tbsp BBQ Rub

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some heat: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking for a spicy twist.
• Change up the seasoning: Swap out the BBQ rub for ranch seasoning or your favorite spice blend for a different flavor profile.
• Try different meats: Replace Little Smokies with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Sweeten it up: Experiment by adding maple syrup on top before baking for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that our Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies cook evenly and become nice and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

While the oven warms up, grease a large baking dish with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier later on!

Step 3: Wrap those Smokies

Next, cut your bacon into thirds. Take one piece of bacon and wrap it around each little smoky tightly. Place each wrapped smoky in the greased baking dish. This step is crucial because the wrapping helps lock in all that delicious flavor.

Step 4: Season Generously

Once all your little smokies are snugly wrapped in bacon, sprinkle them with BBQ rub and brown sugar. The brown sugar caramelizes as they bake, giving these bites their signature sweetness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Now it’s time to bake! Place your dish in the preheated oven and let them cook for about 40-45 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end—this is when they transform into golden perfection!

And there you have it—delicious Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies ready to impress! Enjoy every bite at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Making the perfect Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is all about those little tweaks that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your appetizers are a hit!

• Choose Quality Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a more substantial wrap and better flavor. It holds up well during baking and crisps nicely.

• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the bacon crisp up perfectly.

• Even Spacing: When placing the wrapped Little Smokies in the baking dish, make sure they are spaced evenly. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, promoting even cooking and crispiness.

• Experiment with Seasoning: While BBQ rub adds great flavor, don’t hesitate to try different seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika. These can add a unique twist to your dish.

• Let Them Rest: After baking, let your Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Serving these delightful bites can be as fun as making them! With a few creative ideas, you can turn your appetizer into a showstopper at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the smokiness.
• Dijon Mustard: Serve with a small bowl of Dijon mustard on the side for dipping. The tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich bacon.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers adds crunch and freshness alongside the rich flavors of the smokies.

• Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with your favorite spices make for a hearty side that goes well with any appetizer.

• Coleslaw: A light and refreshing coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the richness of the bacon-wrapped treats, balancing out flavors perfectly.

• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting accompaniment that rounds out your appetizer spread beautifully.

With just these simple serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your guests with not only delicious food but also an inviting presentation! Enjoy every bite of these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies at your next gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy schedules or festive gatherings. You can easily prepare them in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family during your events.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
• To keep them from getting soggy, ensure they are cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the little smokies.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• You can also microwave them for quick reheating; just be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies.

Can I make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

How do I get crispy bacon on my Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?

To achieve crispy bacon, make sure your oven is preheated properly and consider baking them until the bacon is golden brown. The sugar will caramelize and help crisp up the edges!

What should I serve with Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?

These tasty bites pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. They’re great for parties alongside veggies, chips, or sliders!

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes! Turkey bacon is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Keep in mind that it may not get as crispy as traditional bacon.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies brings joy and deliciousness to your next gathering! They are not only simple to make but also pack a delightful flavor punch that everyone will love. Enjoy preparing these tasty bites, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you try. Happy cooking!