Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies: These bite-sized appetizers are the undisputed king of party food, and for good reason! I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Imagine the irresistible combination of salty, smoky bacon perfectly wrapped around juicy, tender little smokies – a flavor explosion in every single bite. It’s a taste sensation that’s guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering.

While the precise origins of this delightful dish are a bit hazy, the concept of wrapping savory meats in bacon is an age-old tradition, reflecting a timeless desire to enhance flavor and create a satisfyingly rich culinary experience. The simplicity of Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies, however, makes it a modern classic, perfectly suited to today’s busy lifestyles. It’s a recipe that’s both impressive and incredibly easy to execute, requiring minimal prep time and offering maximum flavor impact.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

People adore Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies for their incredible ease of preparation and the undeniably delicious results. The sweet and smoky little smokies are beautifully complemented by the salty crispness of the bacon, creating a textural and flavor contrast that’s simply irresistible. They’re perfect for game days, holiday parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; you can easily customize them with different seasonings or dipping sauces to suit your preferences. So, if you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and sophisticated, look no further than these amazing Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies.

Get ready to experience the magic of these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies – a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14.5 ounce) package Little Smokies sausages
• 1 pound center-cut bacon, cut into thirds
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water
• Toothpicks

Preparing the Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. I like to use a good quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
2. Add the water to the saucepan. This helps thin the glaze and prevents it from becoming too thick and sticky.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Don’t rush this step; make sure the sugar dissolves completely to avoid a grainy glaze.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the glaze simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll notice the glaze starts to thicken slightly.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the glaze aside. Let it cool slightly before using. This prevents the bacon from cooking too quickly.

Wrapping the Little Smokies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. I prefer parchment paper as it prevents sticking.
2. Take one Little Smokie sausage and wrap it tightly with a piece of bacon. I find it easiest to wrap the bacon around the sausage lengthwise, then tuck the ends underneath to secure it. Make sure the bacon is snug against the sausage.
3. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. This will keep the bacon from unwrapping during baking. Be careful when using toothpicks, especially if you have children helping.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until all the Little Smokies are wrapped in bacon. This is a great task to do with family or friends – it’s surprisingly fun!
5. Arrange the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Baking and Glazing

1. Bake the Little Smokies for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. Ovens vary, so keep a close watch.
2. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a basting brush, generously brush the glaze over the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies. Don’t be shy with the glaze!
3. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. This adds a beautiful shine and extra flavor.
4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the Little Smokies cool slightly before serving. This allows the glaze to set and prevents burns.
5. Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. Remember to check for any remaining toothpicks before serving to children.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve these delicious bacon-wrapped Little Smokies as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They’re always a crowd-pleaser!
2. They’re also fantastic as a snack or even a fun addition to a game day spread. Serve them with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
3. Consider adding a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or BBQ sauce, for an extra flavor boost. Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect combination.
4. For a more sophisticated presentation, arrange the Little Smokies on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chives. A simple garnish can elevate the presentation significantly.
5. These are best served warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and even less cooking skill. The result? A party-pleasing appetizer that’s both incredibly flavorful and visually appealing. The sweet and smoky little smokies, perfectly complemented by the salty crunch of the bacon, create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and smoky that will leave your guests wanting more.

What makes this Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies recipe stand out is its versatility. It’s incredibly adaptable to your own tastes and preferences. Want a little extra kick? Try adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze before wrapping them in bacon. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of bacon – maple bacon would add a delicious sweetness, while pepper bacon would introduce a spicy element. You could even try wrapping them in prosciutto for a more sophisticated twist!

Beyond the variations in flavor, you can also get creative with presentation. Instead of simply arranging them on a platter, consider using skewers for a more elegant look. You could also serve them in a mini muffin tin for individual portions, making them perfect for a buffet or cocktail party. And don’t forget the dipping sauces! A simple honey mustard, a spicy BBQ sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing would all pair beautifully with these little bites of deliciousness.

I personally love serving my Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies alongside a selection of other appetizers, such as chips and dips, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. They’re also a fantastic addition to any game day spread, holiday gathering, or casual get-together with friends and family. They’re equally at home as a starter or even a fun, finger-food-style main course for a relaxed evening.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a variety of dipping sauces: honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
• Arrange them on a platter, use skewers for a more elegant presentation, or serve them in a mini muffin tin for individual portions.
• Pair them with other appetizers, such as chips and dips, or a fresh salad.
• Consider adding a side of crusty bread to soak up any delicious leftover glaze.

Variations to Try:

• Use maple bacon for a sweeter flavor.
• Add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for extra spice.
• Wrap them in prosciutto for a more sophisticated touch.
• Experiment with different types of cocktail sausages for varied flavor profiles.

I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using the hashtag #BaconWrappedLittleSmokies – I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Let’s get cooking!

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