Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect finger food for parties! Just picture juicy little sausages wrapped in crispy bacon—yum! They’re easy to make and always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These small sausages are the star of the dish! If you can’t find them, consider using mini sausages or cocktail franks. Just ensure they are fully cooked before wrapping.
Bacon: Regular bacon is great, but turkey bacon is a lighter option. If you need to avoid pork, turkey or beef bacon will work well too! Keep in mind that cooking times may vary with different types of bacon.
Toothpicks: Standard toothpicks are perfect for securing the bacon. If you’re feeling fancy, look for colorful or decorative picks to add a fun touch to your presentation!
How Can I Get My Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon is key to making these little bites irresistible! Here’s how:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps cook the bacon evenly.
- Place the bacon-wrapped sausages on a wire rack set over the baking sheet for better airflow. This allows fat to drain off, resulting in crisper bacon.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Give each sausage enough space to cook properly.
- Check for doneness. If you prefer ultra-crispy bacon, leave them in for an extra few minutes, just keep an eye on them!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 Little Smokies sausages (cocktail-sized smoked sausages)
- 12 slices of bacon (each slice cut in half)
- Toothpicks (about 24)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, for a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your bacon cooks perfectly. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Bacon
Next, take your bacon slices and cut each in half to create 24 smaller pieces. Each half will be just the right size to wrap around a Little Smokie.
3. Wrap the Little Smokies
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one half-slice of bacon and start wrapping it around a Little Smokie sausage, beginning at one end and winding tightly until the sausage is fully covered. Make sure each piece is snug!
4. Secure with Toothpicks
Use a toothpick to secure each bacon-wrapped sausage. This keeps the bacon in place while baking, making serving easier.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies on your prepared baking sheet. Arrange them with a little space between each one. This allows the heat to circulate for even cooking.
6. Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven! Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and nicely browned. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through to ensure even crispiness!
7. Cool and Serve
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Little Smokies cool for a few minutes. This makes them safer to eat and helps the bacon set.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies warm as a finger-licking appetizer or snack. Your guests will love these delicious bites!
These little treats are a surefire hit for any party, gathering, or game day. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not get quite as crispy as regular bacon, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How Can I Store Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies a day in advance. Just wrap them, secure with toothpicks, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What Other Dips Can I Serve with Them?
These tasty bites pair well with a variety of dips! Consider serving them with BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a creamy ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!