Bacon Wrapped Smokies: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

Bacon-wrapped smokies are a classic appetizer for a reason: they’re incredibly easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky sausage and crispy bacon is simply irresistible, and they’re perfect for parties, game days, or even just a quick snack. This recipe provides detailed instructions for achieving perfectly cooked, crispy bacon wrapped smokies every time, along with variations and tips to elevate your appetizer game.

## Why Bacon Wrapped Smokies Are Always a Hit

* **Simple Ingredients:** You only need a few basic ingredients: smokies, bacon, and a little brown sugar (optional). No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques required.
* **Quick and Easy:** These can be prepped in minutes and cook relatively quickly, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
* **Crowd-Pleasing Flavor:** The salty, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile appeals to a wide range of palates.
* **Versatile:** They can be baked, grilled, or even cooked in an air fryer, offering flexibility depending on your equipment and preferences.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** You can assemble the smokies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 (14-ounce) package of Little Smokies sausages (or cocktail wieners):** Any brand of little smokies will work. Choose your favorite flavor – classic, cheddar, or even jalapeno for a spicy kick.
* **1 pound bacon, thinly sliced:** Thinly sliced bacon is crucial for achieving crispy results. Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook and may not crisp up properly before the smokies are overcooked.
* **1/4 cup packed brown sugar (optional):** Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and helps the bacon caramelize beautifully. You can substitute maple syrup or honey for a slightly different flavor.
* **Optional additions:**
* Toothpicks: to help secure the bacon (highly recommended)
* BBQ sauce: for dipping
* Ranch dressing: for dipping
* Honey mustard: for dipping
* Everything bagel seasoning: Sprinkle on top before baking for added flavor and texture.
* Chili powder: Add a pinch to the brown sugar for a spicy-sweet twist.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking sheet:** A large baking sheet is essential for baking the smokies. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
* **Wire rack (optional):** Placing a wire rack on the baking sheet allows the bacon to crisp up more evenly by allowing air to circulate around the smokies. It’s highly recommended for optimal crispiness.
* **Small bowl (optional):** For mixing the brown sugar (if using).
* **Toothpicks:** To secure the bacon to the smokies. This is especially important if you’re not using a wire rack, as the bacon may shrink during cooking and fall off.
* **Tongs:** For flipping the smokies during cooking.
* **Knife or kitchen shears:** For cutting the bacon strips.

## Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Smokies

### 1. Prepare the Bacon

* **Slightly Freeze the Bacon (Optional but Recommended):** Place the bacon in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and handle, preventing it from tearing or sticking together. The slightly frozen bacon will also crisp up better in the oven.
* **Cut the Bacon Strips:** Cut each bacon strip into thirds. This is usually the perfect length to wrap around a smokie without too much overlap. If your bacon is particularly long, you may need to cut it into fourths.

### 2. Assemble the Smokies

* **Wrap Each Smokie:** Wrap each smokie with a piece of bacon, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, inserting it through both ends of the bacon and into the smokie. This will prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.
* **Prepare the Brown Sugar (Optional):** In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar (if using). If you’re adding any other spices, such as chili powder or everything bagel seasoning, mix them in now.
* **Coat the Smokies (Optional):** If using brown sugar, lightly coat each bacon-wrapped smokie with the mixture. You can either dip them into the bowl or sprinkle the brown sugar over them.

### 3. Bake the Smokies

* **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* **Prepare the Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If using a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. This allows for better air circulation and crispier bacon.
* **Arrange the Smokies:** Arrange the bacon-wrapped smokies in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this will prevent the bacon from crisping properly.
* **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your bacon and your oven. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
* **Flip (Optional):** For even crispier bacon, flip the smokies halfway through the cooking time.
* **Remove from Oven:** Once the bacon is cooked to your liking, remove the baking sheet from the oven.

### 4. Serve and Enjoy

* **Cool Slightly:** Allow the smokies to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will prevent them from being too hot to handle.
* **Remove Toothpicks:** Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. If you’re serving them to children, make sure to double-check that all toothpicks have been removed.
* **Serve with Dips:** Serve the bacon-wrapped smokies with your favorite dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard. They’re also delicious on their own!

## Cooking Variations

* **Air Fryer:**
* Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
* Place the bacon-wrapped smokies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
* Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
* Air frying results in extra crispy bacon and a slightly faster cooking time.
* **Grilling:**
* Preheat your grill to medium heat.
* Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the grill grates.
* Grill for 8-10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, turning frequently.
* Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the smokies and provides a beautiful char on the bacon.
* **Slow Cooker:**
* While this doesn’t crisp the bacon, it is great if you need to keep them warm at a party.
* Place the bacon-wrapped smokies in the slow cooker.
* Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through.
* Add a bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

## Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Smokies

* **Use Thinly Sliced Bacon:** As mentioned earlier, thinly sliced bacon is essential for achieving crispy results. Thick-cut bacon will take longer to cook and may not crisp up properly before the smokies are overcooked.
* **Slightly Freeze the Bacon:** Freezing the bacon for a short period makes it easier to handle and slice, preventing it from tearing or sticking together.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Overcrowding the baking sheet will prevent the bacon from crisping properly. Make sure the smokies are arranged in a single layer with enough space between them.
* **Use a Wire Rack:** A wire rack allows for better air circulation and crispier bacon. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can still bake the smokies directly on the baking sheet, but they may not be as crispy.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking the smokies will result in dry, tough bacon and rubbery sausages. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the bacon is cooked to your liking.
* **Secure the Bacon with Toothpicks:** Toothpicks are essential for preventing the bacon from unraveling during cooking. Make sure to insert the toothpicks through both ends of the bacon and into the smokie.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try adding different spices to the brown sugar, such as chili powder or everything bagel seasoning. You can also use different types of bacon, such as maple bacon or peppered bacon.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the bacon-wrapped smokies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
* **Consider a Glaze:** For an extra layer of flavor, brush the smokies with a glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. A mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard works well. You can also use a simple honey glaze.

## Serving Suggestions

Bacon-wrapped smokies are a versatile appetizer that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Party Appetizer:** Serve them as a classic party appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces.
* **Game Day Snack:** They’re perfect for game day gatherings. Serve them alongside other game day favorites like wings, nachos, and pizza.
* **Quick and Easy Snack:** Enjoy them as a quick and easy snack any time of day.
* **Part of a Charcuterie Board:** Add them to a charcuterie board for a savory and flavorful element.
* **Side Dish:** Serve them as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.

## Dipping Sauce Ideas

* **BBQ Sauce:** A classic choice that complements the smoky flavor of the bacon and sausage.
* **Ranch Dressing:** A creamy and tangy option that adds a refreshing contrast to the savory smokies.
* **Honey Mustard:** A sweet and tangy sauce that pairs well with the bacon.
* **Spicy Mayo:** Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Sweet Chili Sauce:** A sweet and slightly spicy sauce that adds an Asian-inspired flavor.
* **Blue Cheese Dressing:** A bold and flavorful option for blue cheese lovers.
* **Horseradish Sauce:** A creamy and spicy sauce that adds a zesty flavor.
* **Ketchup:** A simple and classic option that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Mustard:** Yellow or Dijon mustard both work well.

## Nutritional Information (Estimated)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

Per serving (approximately 3 smokies):

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 8-10g
* Cholesterol: 40-50mg
* Sodium: 600-800mg
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g
* Protein: 10-15g

## Conclusion

Bacon-wrapped smokies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that are easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just looking for a quick and easy snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create a truly unforgettable appetizer that everyone will love. So, fire up your oven, grab some bacon and smokies, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate party snack!