Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic party favorite that's super simple yet always a hit. Smoky, juicy little sausages are wrapped in crispy, salty bacon, creating the perfect bite-sized…
Tip: save now, cook later.Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic party favorite that’s super simple yet always a hit. Smoky, juicy little sausages are wrapped in crispy, salty bacon, creating the perfect bite-sized treat with a great mix of flavors and textures. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy—who doesn’t love the combo of bacon and sausages?
I like to make these whenever friends come over or for game day snacks because they’re always gone in minutes. One tip I’ve learned is to secure the bacon with a toothpick and bake them until the bacon is nice and crispy but the smokies stay juicy inside. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference in how they turn out.
Serving them up with a side of your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or barbecue sauce makes them even better, and they’re perfect for nibbling while chatting and relaxing. I can’t help but smile watching everyone grab these from the platter—I think that’s part of their charm, being so simple but so crowd-pleasing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These small sausages are the star here. You can find them smoked or regular. If you can’t find little smokies, cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs work well too.
Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor and crispiness. I like regular sliced bacon for even cooking, but thick-cut bacon works if you prefer a meatier bite. Turkey bacon can be a lighter substitute but won’t get as crispy.
Glaze Options: Brown sugar, barbecue sauce, or honey add a nice sweet touch that balances the saltiness. If you prefer no glaze, that’s fine too—the bacon and sausages have plenty of flavor on their own.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon Wrapped Smokies Without Burning?
Bacon can be tricky—it needs to cook fully and get crispy without burning. Here’s how I handle it:
- Cut bacon into smaller pieces so it wraps neatly around the smokies and cooks evenly.
- Use a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow the bacon fat to drip off. This helps the bacon get crispier.
- Bake at 375°F to let the bacon slowly crisp without burning. Avoid higher heat that can burn bacon edges too fast.
- Turn the smokies halfway through cooking so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Keep an eye near the end—once the bacon looks golden and crisp, they’re ready to take out.
Following these steps helps you get that perfect balance of crispy bacon with juicy, flavorful little smokies inside. It’s a simple trick that makes these appetizers shine!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – essential for holding your smokies while they bake evenly in the oven.
- Wire rack – lets the bacon crisp up all around by allowing fat to drip off below.
- Toothpicks – perfect for keeping the bacon wrapped tightly around each little smokie.
- Aluminum foil – helps catch drips and makes cleanup much easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Brush with barbecue sauce or honey before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze that contrasts nicely with the salty bacon.
- Try sprinkling brown sugar on top for a caramelized, slightly crunchy finish.
- Swap the little smokies with mini sausages flavored with jalapeño or cheddar for a spicy or cheesy twist.
- Add a small piece of cheese inside the bacon wrap before baking for a melty surprise in each bite.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 14-16 oz) little smokies sausages
- 12-14 slices of bacon (regular or thick cut)
- Toothpicks
Optional for Glazing:
- Brown sugar
- Barbecue sauce
- Honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. Allow a few minutes for cooling before serving. In total, you’ll spend around 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy appetizer to prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack over it. The rack lets the bacon fat drip away so your little smokies get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Smokies:
Cut each bacon slice into halves or thirds, depending on size, so you have pieces just big enough to wrap each little smokie. Wrap every smokie with a piece of bacon and use a toothpick to keep it snug and secure.
3. Add Some Sweetness (Optional):
If you like, add a sweet touch by sprinkling a little brown sugar over each wrapped smokie or brushing them lightly with barbecue sauce or honey. This adds a lovely glaze that caramelizes as they bake.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the wire rack, making sure there’s space between each piece. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is golden and crunchy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the smokies out of the oven and let them cool just a little so they’re not too hot. Then serve them warm as a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with smoky, savory flavor!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Frozen Little Smokies?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or frozen little smokies. Just make sure to thaw frozen smokies completely before wrapping them in bacon to ensure even cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Can I Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the smokies in bacon and place them on the baking sheet, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauce Options?
Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo complement the smoky and salty flavors of these bites perfectly. Serve a few on the side for guests to choose their favorite!
