Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Easy Party Appetizer
Introduction
Imagine the aroma of sizzling bacon filling your kitchen, paired with the irresistible scent of savory cocktail sausages. This easy party appetizer combines the rich flavors of bacon and the smoky goodness of little smokies for a mouthwatering treat that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a holiday party, or simply craving a delicious snack, these bacon-wrapped little smokies are the perfect choice.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that will have your guests coming back for more. The combination of crispy bacon and juicy sausages offers a tantalizing contrast of textures and flavors that is hard to resist.
While bacon-wrapped appetizers have become a popular choice for parties and gatherings, the origins of this classic dish can be traced back to traditional American cuisine. Bacon has long been a staple in Southern cooking, known for its ability to add a smoky, salty flavor to a wide range of dishes. By wrapping it around little smokies, you create a delectable appetizer that is both comforting and indulgent.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this delicious bacon-wrapped little smokies recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just two main ingredients, bacon, and little smokies, you can create a flavorful appetizer that requires minimal effort. The combination of crispy bacon and juicy sausages offers a delightful contrast of textures that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding spices, sauces, or glazes to elevate the flavors. Whether you prefer sweet and savory or spicy and smoky, you can tailor this dish to suit your palate.
From a practical standpoint, this recipe is perfect for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The prep work is minimal, and the cooking process is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Lastly, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of bacon and little smokies is a winning duo that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal party, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To make these delicious bacon-wrapped little smokies, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of bacon (approximately 12 slices)
– 1 package of little smokies sausages (12-ounce package)
Optional ingredient substitutions:
– Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to traditional bacon.
– Veggie sausages are a great vegetarian option for this recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips.
3. Wrap each little smokie sausage with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, evenly spaced apart.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped little smokies!
Expert Tips for Success
– Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the sausages can help ensure that it crisps up nicely in the oven.
– You can brush the bacon-wrapped little smokies with a glaze of your choice, such as barbecue sauce or maple syrup, for added flavor.
– Make sure to secure the bacon with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during baking.
– For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked bacon or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the sausages before wrapping them in bacon.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some creative ways to customize this recipe:
– Add a sprinkle of brown sugar over the bacon-wrapped sausages before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
– Drizzle the cooked bacon-wrapped little smokies with hot honey for a spicy and sweet flavor profile.
– Experiment with different types of sausages, such as spicy chorizo or chicken apple sausage, for unique flavor combinations.
– For a cheesy twist, insert a small cube of cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the center of each little smokie before wrapping it in bacon.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon-wrapped little smokies are perfect for serving as a party appetizer or a game day snack. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as mustard, ketchup, or ranch dressing, for added flavor. For a complete party spread, serve them alongside other appetizers like sliders, wings, and vegetable platters. Don’t forget to provide napkins or toothpicks for easy serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare these bacon-wrapped little smokies in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped sausages ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if baking them from chilled.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover bacon-wrapped little smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these appetizers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked bacon-wrapped little smokies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these bacon-wrapped little smokies are a must-try for any bacon lover or party host looking to impress their guests. With their crispy bacon exterior and juicy sausage center, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal event, these appetizers are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, wrap up those little smokies, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying snack that will have everyone coming back for more.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Easy Party Appetizer
These bacon-wrapped little smokies are a delicious party appetizer combining the rich flavors of bacon with the smoky goodness of cocktail sausages. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering or snack time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon (approximately 12 slices)
- 1 package little smokies sausages (12-ounce package)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips.
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Wrap each little smokie sausage with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
-
Place the bacon-wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and browned.
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Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your bacon-wrapped little smokies!
