Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect party snack! Each little sausage is wrapped in crispy bacon and baked until golden. It’s a combo that’s hard to resist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These are the star of the show! They are fully cooked and ready to enjoy. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with another type of pre-cooked sausage, like cocktail sausages.
Bacon: I recommend using regular-cut bacon for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, but it may not crisp up as well. For a flavorful twist, try using smoked bacon.
Dipping Sauces: Barbecue sauce is my favorite, but feel free to get creative! Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha sauce can add a fun kick.
How Do I Ensure My Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that bacon perfectly crisp can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure you achieve delicious results:
- Preheat your oven properly. A hotter oven helps the bacon render fat faster.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet if you have one. This allows hot air to circulate around the bacon for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give each piece enough space to crisp up.
- Turning halfway through cooking helps achieve an even golden color.
- Keep an eye on them near the end of baking, as the bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
Make sure to enjoy these tasty treats while they’re hot!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (14-16 oz) Little Smokies sausages
- 1 package (12 oz) bacon strips, cut in half
- Optional: toothpicks for securing
- Optional dipping sauces: barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ketchup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time just letting the oven do its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for an easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, place that on top of the baking sheet. This helps the bacon get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
Take your package of bacon and cut each strip in half crosswise. This gives you the perfect length to wrap around each Little Smokie.
3. Wrap the Little Smokies:
Grab a Little Smokie and take one of your half-strip bacon pieces. Starting at one end, wrap the bacon around the sausage, spiraling down until it’s fully covered. If you’d like, use a toothpick to secure it in place!
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place each bacon-wrapped Smokie on your baking sheet or wire rack, giving them a little space apart so they cook evenly.
5. Bake Them Up:
Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, turning halfway through for an even cook. You want the bacon to be crispy and golden!
6. Cool Slightly:
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the little smokies cool for a few minutes—you don’t want to burn your tongue!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These tasty treats are best served warm. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even some ketchup. Enjoy your delicious Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Yes, you can definitely use turkey bacon! Keep in mind it may not get as crispy as regular pork bacon, but it’s a healthier alternative that still delivers great flavor.
How Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies a few hours in advance. Simply wrap them, place them on the baking sheet, cover with foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in the oven cold!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap them as directed and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen—just add a little extra cooking time! Enjoy your delicious snacks anytime!