Description
🥓 Savor the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that make this appetizer a hit at any gathering, offering irresistible taste with simple preparation.
🥓 Enjoy an easy recipe that’s ideal for parties, providing a crowd-pleasing option that’s quick to assemble and always disappears fast.
Ingredients
– 1 package (14 ounces) little smokies (cocktail sausages) These provide the smoky base and protein, making the dish hearty and satisfying for any crowd
– 1 pound bacon strips Wraps around each smokie for that irresistible crispy texture and adds a salty depth that elevates the overall flavor
– 1/2 cup brown sugar Coats the smokies for a sweet caramelized finish, turning them into a mouthwatering appetizer that’s hard to resist
– 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps with browning and prevents sticking, ensuring even cooking and a nice golden color on the bacon
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a subtle savory note that complements the bacon and smokies without overpowering the taste
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a gentle kick and enhances the spices, making each bite more flavorful and exciting
– 24 toothpicks Secures the bacon in place during baking, ensuring everything holds together perfectly for easy serving
Instructions
First Step: Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F, so everything is ready to go and you can focus on the fun part. This mise-en-place step helps avoid any last-minute rushes, especially if you’re a busy parent multitasking in the kitchen!
Second Step: Take the package of little smokie and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which ensures the bacon sticks well and crisps up nicely. Arrange them on a cutting board for easy access, making this prep super quick and mess-free.
Third Step: Cut the bacon strips in half to make them the right size for wrapping each smokie, creating a perfect snug fit. This portion control helps with even cooking and prevents the bacon from overlapping too much, which could lead to uneven browning.
Fourth Step: Wrap each little smokie with a half-strip of bacon, securing the end with a toothpick to hold it in place. Position the seam side down on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for better air circulation, which promotes that crave-worthy crispiness all around. (I like to do this in batches if I’m making a large quantity, so nothing gets overwhelming!)
Fifth Step: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper, then sprinkle or brush this mixture over the wrapped smokies for that sweet and savory glaze. This adds layers of flavor that make them irresistible, but go light if you’re aiming for a less sweet version.
Sixth Step: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, checking at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking. The bacon should turn golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of the smokies should reach 160°F for safety, giving you perfectly done treats every time.
Seventh Step: Once baked, remove the smokies from the oven and let them cool on the wire rack for about 5 minutes to set the glaze and make handling easier. Use oven mitts to transfer them to a serving platter, as they’re hot and ready to impress your guests!
Final Step: Serve the Bacon Wrapped Smokies warm, perhaps with a side of dipping sauces like honey mustard for extra flair. They’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you’re prepping ahead, store them as outlined later this recipe is a hit for game days or casual get-togethers, bringing smiles all around!
Notes
🥓 Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier wrap that holds up better during baking.
🍴 Prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking to save time on the day of your event.
🔥 Keep an eye on them in the oven to prevent the sugar from burning for the best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Sugar: 10 grams
- Sodium: 500 milligrams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
- Cholesterol: 40 milligrams
Keywords: Brown Sugar Bacon, Wrapped Smokies, Easy Recipe, Delicious Appetizer