Bacon-wrapped little smokies are the perfect party snack! These tasty bites combine juicy sausage and crispy bacon, making them a hit with everyone.
Let’s face it, who can resist the flavor of bacon? They’re super easy to make too! Just wrap, bake, and enjoy—great for game day or any celebration!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These cocktail sausages are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages can work just as well. They’ll still taste great wrapped in bacon!
Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon both work beautifully. For a lighter version, turkey bacon is a good alternative, though it may not get as crispy. If you love spice, try using jalapeño or peppered bacon for an extra kick!
Toothpicks: Essential for holding the bacon in place. If you want a more fun presentation, consider using decorative picks. Just remember to soak wooden picks in water before using to prevent burning.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Bacon?
Getting your bacon crispy is key to a great outcome. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect texture:
- Use a wire rack: If you have one, placing your smokies on a wire rack over the baking sheet allows for better air circulation, helping the bacon to crisp evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each piece some space on the baking sheet. This helps the hot air circulate around each smokie and ensures even cooking.
- Flip halfway: Turning the bacon-wrapped smokies halfway through baking promotes even browning and prevents sticking.
With these steps, you will get the crispy perfection that everyone loves! Enjoy making these tasty treats for your next gathering!
Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb little smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1 lb bacon strips (regular or thick-cut)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier after enjoying your delicious creation!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Next, take each slice of bacon and cut it into thirds or halves, depending on how big your smokies are. You want enough bacon to wrap around each little smokie but not too much that it overlaps excessively.
3. Wrap the Little Smokies:
Now for the fun part! Take one little smokie and wrap it with a piece of bacon, making sure it’s snug. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place by poking it through both the bacon and the sausage. Repeat this process until all the smokies are wrapped!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them. This helps the bacon crisp up nicely as they cook.
5. Bake Them Up:
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the smokies bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and feel free to turn them halfway through to ensure they get that golden-brown color all over.
6. Drain Excess Grease:
Once they’re looking crispy and delicious, take them out of the oven and place the smokies on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb some of the excess grease. This keeps them from being too oily!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your tasty bacon-wrapped little smokies are ready to serve! Enjoy them warm as a fantastic appetizer or party snack that everyone will love. Happy snacking!
Enjoy these smoky, crispy bites that are sure to be crowd-pleasers!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that it may not get as crispy as pork bacon, so adjust your cooking time accordingly and check for doneness.
How Do I Keep Leftovers Fresh?
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped little smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which helps keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the bacon-wrapped little smokies in a single layer for about 10-15 minutes, checking for desired crispiness. This method cuts down on cooking time and results in a deliciously crispy snack!
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Dish?
To amp up the flavor, you can sprinkle the bacon-wrapped smokies with your favorite spices or seasonings before baking. Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, or even a drizzle of BBQ sauce can add delicious depth to the dish!