Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

Classic cocktail smokies are a crowd-pleaser, and when you wrap them in crispy bacon and add a hint of sweetness with a spicy brown sugar rub, they become irresistible! These Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. Their unique flavor profile and easy preparation make them a standout appetizer that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious snack in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet brown sugar and spicy cayenne creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or cozy nights at home—you can’t go wrong!
• Crowd Favorite: These little bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference for a tailored experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for cooking. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jelly roll pan or large baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Paper towels
• Toothpicks
• Large resealable plastic bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Jelly roll pan: This is essential for catching drips from the bacon while allowing the smokies to cook evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Helps with easy cleanup while preventing sticking.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Ensures that nothing sticks to your pan for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Ingredients

Classic cocktail smokies are wrapped in smoky bacon, coated with a spicy brown sugar rub, and baked until crispy and oh so addicting!

For the Smokies

• 16 oz package of little smokies (or small cooked sausages) (I use Hillshire Farm brand)

For the Bacon Wraps

• 15 slices bacon, each cut into 3 smaller sections

For the Sweet Spicy Rub

• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (more or less, according to your tastes)
• Pinch of black pepper (optional)

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a jelly roll pan (or large baking sheet with a rim) by lining it with aluminum foil and lightly coating it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausages

Pat the little smokies dry using paper towels. Take each sausage and wrap it snugly with one piece of cut bacon. Secure each wrap with a toothpick to keep everything in place.

Step 3: Coat the Sausages

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Use a spoon to mix well. Add several bacon-wrapped sausages into the bag at a time. Seal it shut and shake gently to coat them evenly with the sugar mixture. Repeat this process until all sausages are coated.

Step 4: Bake the Smokies

Line up the coated sausages on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes until the bacon is browned and crispy. If you desire extra crispiness, broil them for an additional couple of minutes after baking.

Enjoy these savory Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies as an appetizer at your next gathering!

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are a delightful treat perfect for gatherings and parties. They can be served in various ways to impress your guests and enhance their flavor experience.

On a Skewers

• Use wooden or metal skewers to thread multiple bacon-wrapped sausages together for easy serving and fun presentation.

With Dipping Sauces

• Pair with sweet or spicy sauces like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing for an added flavor boost.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include these smokies on a charcuterie board alongside cheese, crackers, fruits, and nuts for a visually appealing spread.

Accompanied by Fresh Veggies

• Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or bell pepper slices to balance the richness of the bacon.

In a Sliders Style

• Place the bacon-wrapped smokies inside small slider buns with toppings for an approachable twist on classic sliders.

How to Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

To make your Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies even more delicious, consider these tips:

• Use Quality Bacon: Select thick-cut bacon for better flavor and texture.
• Season Generously: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance to enhance the taste.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking and crispy bacon.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Space out the sausages on the baking sheet to allow even heat distribution and crispiness.
• Experiment with Glazes: Try adding different glazes like maple syrup or sriracha for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

Serving side dishes alongside Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw
   A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the smokies.

2. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs complement the savory flavors perfectly.

3. Macaroni and Cheese
   Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort food vibes that pair well with meat snacks.

4. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to salty bacon flavors.

5. Stuffed Mini Peppers
   Mini peppers stuffed with cream cheese bring color and freshness to your plate.

6. Caesar Salad
   A light Caesar salad adds greens while keeping your meal hearty yet balanced.

7. Spicy Garlic Breadsticks
   Flavorful breadsticks add texture and make it easy to enjoy every last bite of sauce.

8. Grilled Vegetables
   Colorful grilled veggies provide a healthy option that still feels indulgent alongside your smokies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Overcooking the Bacon: Cooking bacon too long can lead to a tough texture. Monitor closely during the baking process to achieve that perfect crispiness without overdoing it.
• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to pat the sausages dry can result in excess moisture, affecting how well the bacon adheres. Always dry your sausages with a paper towel before wrapping them.
• Not Using Enough Brown Sugar: Insufficient sugar can result in bland flavor. Make sure you coat each sausage adequately for that sweet and spicy kick.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may leave bacon undercooked or burnt. Preheat your oven to 350°F and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Arrange your bacon-wrapped sausages in a single layer with space between them for optimal crispness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste.

Freezing Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet until heated through, ensuring the bacon remains crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?

Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are small sausages wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with brown sugar and spices, making them a delicious appetizer.

How do I customize my Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?

You can customize by adding different spices or using barbecue sauce instead of brown sugar for a tangy twist!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and bake just before serving.

Are there vegetarian alternatives?

You can substitute little smokies with plant-based sausages and use vegan bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish.

What’s the best way to serve Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?

They are best served warm as finger food at parties or gatherings, paired with dipping sauces like barbecue or ranch.

Final Thoughts

Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. Their combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them a crowd favorite. Plus, you can easily customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—give this delightful snack a try at your next gathering!