Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a fun and tasty appetizer that’s hard to resist. These little sausages get a flavor boost when wrapped in crispy bacon, making every bite perfectly salty and smoky. They’re super easy to make and always disappear quickly at parties or family gatherings.
I love how simple they are to prepare but still feel special enough to serve when friends come over. My favorite trick is to secure each smokie with a toothpick and bake them until the bacon is just the right amount of crispy. It’s like a little package of goodness that’s satisfying and comforting every time.
These bacon-wrapped treats are perfect served with some barbecue sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. I usually keep a big platter nearby because they’re gone in minutes, and everyone always asks for more. They’re a sure way to bring smiles and a little extra fun to any get-together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Little Smokies
- These mini sausages are the star of the show, offering a smoky, juicy bite. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with cocktail sausages or small hot dogs cut into pieces.
- Bacon
- Regular-cut bacon works best here because it crisps nicely without overpowering the smokies. Thick-cut can work but may need longer cooking. For a leaner option, try turkey bacon, but note it crisps differently.
- Brown Sugar
- This adds a sweet caramelized coating that balances the saltiness from the bacon. If you prefer less sweetness, use a bit less or swap with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
- Black Pepper
- Optional but helps add a subtle spicy kick. You can skip it or replace with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like some heat.
How Do You Get Bacon Crispy Without Burning the Smokies?
Achieving crispy bacon without overcooking the smokies is key. Here’s what works well:
- Preheat your oven to a medium-high heat (375°F). This cooks the bacon slowly enough to crisp but avoids burning.
- Use foil or parchment on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Wrap bacon tightly around each smokie and secure with a toothpick to keep it from sliding off during cooking.
- Turn the smokies halfway through baking to crisp all sides evenly.
- If bacon seems to cook faster than the smokies, loosely cover the tray with foil for a few minutes to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for cooking the bacon-wrapped smokies evenly and catching drips for easy cleanup.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze.
- Toothpicks – essential to keep the bacon tightly wrapped around the little smokies while baking.
- Small mixing bowl – for mixing the brown sugar and pepper to sprinkle on top.
- Tongs – handy for turning the smokies halfway through cooking without messing up the bacon wrap.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try wrapping the smokies with maple-flavored or peppered bacon for an extra layer of taste.
- Sprinkle with chili powder or cayenne pepper instead of black pepper to add a spicy kick.
- Add a small cube of cheese inside the bacon before wrapping for melty pockets of flavor.
- Brush with barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sticky, tangy glaze.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb little smokies sausages
- 12 slices of bacon (regular cut, not thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare to spend about 10 minutes getting your ingredients ready and wrapping the smokies. Baking takes about 25-30 minutes, so plan for approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, including a short cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing to Bake:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper—this helps with easy cleanup after cooking.
2. Wrapping the Smokies:
Cut each slice of bacon into halves or thirds, depending on size, so each piece fits nicely around one little smokie sausage. Wrap each smokie with the bacon and secure it with a toothpick so it stays in place while baking.
3. Arranging and Seasoning:
Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them for even cooking. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and black pepper (if using). Sprinkle this sweet and lightly spiced mixture evenly over the smokies.
4. Baking to Crispy Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, turning the smokies halfway through so the bacon crisps up evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is crispy and caramelized and the smokies are heated through.
5. Serving:
Take the smokies out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes so they’re safe to eat. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, like barbecue or mustard. Enjoy the juicy, smoky taste wrapped up in crispy, sweet bacon!
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before wrapping with bacon. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for quicker prep. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Wrap the smokies with bacon and secure with toothpicks, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just sprinkle with brown sugar and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftover Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
Barbecue sauce, honey mustard, spicy mustard, or ranch dressing all pair wonderfully. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!