Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect party snack! These tasty bites combine juicy little sausages wrapped in crispy bacon, making them hard to resist.
They’re great for game days or any gathering! Just pop them in the oven, and soon you’ll have a plate full of golden, crunchy goodness. Trust me, they’ll disappear quickly! 🥓🌭
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These cocktail-sized sausages are the star. If you can’t find them, you can use other small sausages, like mini bratwurst or kielbasa, for a different taste.
Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon works best. I prefer thick-cut for extra crispiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a good substitute, though it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: Both add a lovely sweetness! You can skip it for a more savory flavor or use honey as an alternative. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Seasonings: Adding black pepper or chili powder gives a nice kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika!
How Can I Ensure My Bacon Gets Extra Crispy?
Achieving crispy bacon wrapped around Little Smokies is all about the cooking method. Here are my top tips:
- Use a wire rack: This allows hot air to circulate around the bacon while cooking, getting it crispy all over.
- Preheat the oven: This ensures the bacon starts cooking immediately for better crispiness.
- Turn them halfway: This helps to cook and crisp the bacon evenly on both sides.
- Watch the time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking. Bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
With these techniques, you’ll have deliciously crispy bacon-wrapped treats that everyone will rave about!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound Little Smokies sausages (cocktail-sized smoked sausages)
- 12 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)
Optional Ingredients:
- Brown sugar or maple syrup (for glazing)
- Black pepper or chili powder (for seasoning)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, with around 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, in just about 40 minutes or less, you’ll have a delicious party appetizer ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet so the bacon can get nicely crispy as it bakes.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Next, take your bacon slices and cut them into thirds. If you’re using thick-cut bacon, halves might be sufficient. Each piece should be long enough to wrap around one Little Smokie sausage.
3. Wrap the Little Smokies:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take a piece of bacon and wrap it tightly around each Little Smokie. Secure it with a toothpick so it stays in place during baking. This step makes them easy to eat later!
4. Add the Sweet Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like a sweet touch, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top of each wrapped sausage or brush them lightly with maple syrup. This adds a deliciously sweet layer to your savory bites.
5. Arrange and Bake:
Place the wrapped Little Smokies on the wire rack or directly on the lined baking sheet, making sure the seam side of the bacon is down. Bake them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through cooking for even crispiness!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they are golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These tasty bites are best enjoyed warm, so serve them right away and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your crispy, savory, and slightly sweet bacon-wrapped Little Smokies—perfect for any party or gathering!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Yes, you can! Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not crisp up as nicely as regular pork bacon, so adjust cooking time as needed.
How Can I Store Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance up to the baking step. Just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake them right before serving for the best taste and texture!
What Can I Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?
These bites pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces like barbecue, ranch, or honey mustard. You could also serve them alongside some fresh veggies or a cheese platter for a great appetizer spread!
