Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect bite-sized treats for parties! They’re made by wrapping juicy little sausages in crispy bacon and baking until golden brown.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These are small, smoked sausages that are the star of the dish. If you can’t find them, mini bratwurst or cocktail sausages could work as a substitute.
Bacon: I usually prefer thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness. Regular bacon also works. You can use turkey bacon for a lighter option, though it may not get as crispy.
Dipping Sauces: Barbecue sauce is fantastic, but feel free to try honey mustard or ranch dressing. If you want a little heat, a spicy dipping sauce or sriracha can be fun!
How Can I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting the bacon perfectly crispy is key for this dish. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven well—this sets the cooking temperature right from the start.
- Arrange Little Smokies spaced apart on the baking sheet to allow the heat to circulate.
- Flip them halfway through baking for even cooking and crispiness.
For best results, keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. Enjoy your crispy, delicious bites!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies sausages
- 10 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
- Optional: toothpicks for securing
- Optional dipping sauces: barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious treats. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies bake evenly and get nice and crispy. While it preheats, you can prepare the baking sheet.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This helps with easy cleanup after baking—who doesn’t love that?
3. Cut the Bacon:
Take the bacon slices and cut them in half crosswise. This gives you shorter strips to wrap around the Little Smokies.
4. Wrap the Smokies:
Grab a Little Smokie sausage and wrap it tightly with a piece of bacon. If you’d like, you can use a toothpick to secure it in place. Repeat this for all the sausages until they’re all wrapped up in delicious bacon!
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped sausages on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave a little space between each one so they can cook evenly.
6. Bake:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through to ensure they get crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be golden brown and sizzling!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help prevent little fingers from burning themselves on the hot sausage!
8. Enjoy with Dipping Sauces:
Serve your Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies warm with your choice of dipping sauces. Barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch work perfectly—choose your favorite!
Enjoy this classic party appetizer that’s crispy, smoky, and deliciously satisfying!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While Little Smokies are the traditional choice, you can substitute them with mini bratwurst, cocktail sausages, or any small sausages you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon-wrapped sausages in advance! After wrapping, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, so they regain their crispy texture.
Can I Cook These on the Grill Instead?
Yes! If you prefer grilling, simply wrap the Little Smokies in bacon as usual, then place them on a preheated grill over indirect heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy.
