Print

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies: Easy Appetizer Recipe

crispy bacon-wrapped little smokies - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy bacon-wrapped little smokies are the perfect party appetizer—salty, sweet, smoky, and perfectly crunchy. With just a few simple ingredients and a foolproof technique, you’ll get bacon that actually crunches, not chewy strips that slide off the sausage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14-ounce) package little smokies sausages (about 40 to 50 sausages)
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon (about 20 to 25 slices)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (optional but highly recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon your favorite BBQ seasoning or rub

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire cooling rack on top. Spray the rack lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut each slice of bacon in half crosswise, making pieces about 3 to 4 inches long.
  3. Par-cook the bacon pieces: Lay them on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels and microwave for 45 to 60 seconds. The bacon should still be pliable but slightly translucent. Let cool for a minute.
  4. Wrap each little smokie: Take one piece of par-cooked bacon and wrap it around a sausage, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure with a toothpick pushed through the overlap.
  5. Mix the brown sugar and seasoning (if using) in a small bowl until evenly mixed.
  6. Roll each wrapped smokie in the sugar mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres. Place on the wire rack with the toothpick facing up or to the side.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, rotate the pan and check the bacon. The smokies are done when the bacon is deep golden brown and crispy, and the edges are starting to caramelize.
  8. Let them rest for 5 minutes. The bacon will continue to crisp as it cools slightly.
  9. Remove the toothpicks before serving. Arrange on a platter and serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the par-cook step—it’s crucial for crispy bacon. Use thin-cut bacon only; thick-cut will be chewy. Soak toothpicks in water to prevent burning. For best results, don’t overcrowd the rack. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Can be frozen unbaked for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped little smokies, crispy bacon appetizer, easy party appetizer, game day snack, bacon wrapped sausages

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/crispy-bacon-wrapped-little-smokies-easy-appetizer-recipe/