Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic party favorite that always gets everyone smiling. These tasty little sausages are wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon, making every bite a perfect combination…
Tip: save now, cook later.Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic party favorite that always gets everyone smiling. These tasty little sausages are wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon, making every bite a perfect combination of chewy, salty, and juicy. They’re super easy to make and look impressive on any appetizer tray.
I love making these for gatherings because they’re simple but feel special. A little tip I’ve picked up is to secure the bacon with toothpicks before baking to keep everything nice and tight. It helps the bacon crisp up evenly without slipping off, and that smoky bacon flavor really takes the smokies to the next level.
These are fantastic served warm right out of the oven, but I’ve also enjoyed them with a little side of mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping. They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast, so I always make a big batch! For me, Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies bring back fun memories of holiday get-togethers and casual weekend hangouts with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These small smoked sausages are the star here. If you can’t find them, mini hot dogs or cocktail sausages work fine. Choose ones with good flavor to keep the dish tasty.
Bacon: Regular thin-sliced bacon crisps up quickly, but thick-cut bacon offers a meatier bite. Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter version, though it may not crisp the same.
Toothpicks: Essential for holding the bacon in place. Wooden toothpicks are easiest, but metal picks work too if you have them handy.
How Do You Get Bacon Perfectly Crispy Without Burning?
Getting bacon crispy without burning takes some attention. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat the oven so bacon cooks evenly.
- Wrap the bacon tightly around each smokie to avoid loose ends catching fire.
- Use a foil-lined baking sheet to catch drips; it helps avoid flare ups.
- Turn halfway through baking to crisp all sides evenly.
- Watch the last few minutes closely—bacon can go from perfect to burnt fast!
With these steps, you’ll get crisp bacon that stays wrapped nicely around each little smokie. It’s all about even cooking and turning at the right time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to fit all smokies without crowding so bacon crisps evenly.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – makes cleanup super easy and keeps the pan clean.
- Sharp knife – for cutting bacon strips in half quickly and neatly.
- Toothpicks – to secure bacon around smokies and keep everything tight during baking.
- Tongs – helpful for turning the smokies halfway through cooking without breaking the bacon.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try brushing a little barbecue sauce or honey mustard on the bacon before baking for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Use flavored sausages like spicy chorizo or maple breakfast links to change the flavor profile.
- Add a small cube of cheese inside each smokie before wrapping for a melty surprise.
- Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder on the bacon to give a mild smoky or spicy kick.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (about 16 oz) Little Smokies sausages
- 8 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- Toothpicks (for securing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 35 minutes. It’s quick to put together and the oven does most of the work, so it’s perfect for last-minute appetizers or snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleaning easier after baking.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Smokies:
Cut each slice of bacon in half crosswise to make the strips smaller and easier to wrap. Take one Little Smokies sausage and wrap a bacon strip around it tightly, overlapping slightly. Secure the bacon in place by inserting a toothpick through the bacon and smokie.
3. Wrap All the Smokies:
Repeat wrapping and securing with toothpicks for all the Little Smokies until all are covered in bacon.
4. Bake and Finish:
Place the bacon-wrapped smokies spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure even cooking. Bake until the bacon is crispy and the smokies are warmed through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the smokies from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. You may choose to remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve warm on their own or with dipping sauces such as mustard or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Yes, you can! Turkey bacon is a leaner option, but it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon. Keep an eye on it while baking to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and bake fresh when needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Smokies?
Serve them warm as a finger food at parties or alongside your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy ketchup for added flavor.
