Bacon Wrapped Smokies: Elevate Your Appetizers with this Irresistible Recipe!

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will elevate your cooking skills? Look no further than bacon wrapped smokies! These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with the smoky flavor of bacon complementing the juicy cocktail sausages. Whether you're hosting a party or simply want to impress your family and friends, this irresistible recipe is sure to be a hit. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these delectable bacon wrapped smokies!

Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Smokies

To make these irresistible appetizers, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 package of smokies (mini sausages)

- 1 pound of bacon

- 1/2 cup of brown sugar

- 1 teaspoon of chili powder

- Toothpicks

These simple ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed treat that will leave your guests wanting more. Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

Step-by-step Instructions for Making Bacon Wrapped Smokies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Take each smokie and wrap it tightly with a strip of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks.

3. Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one.

4. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and chili powder to create a sweet and spicy rub.

5. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the bacon-wrapped smokies, ensuring they are evenly coated.

6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through.

7. Once cooked, remove the toothpicks from the smokies and transfer them to a serving platter.

8. Serve hot and enjoy these irresistible bites of goodness!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Smokies

1. Use thin-cut bacon: Thin-cut bacon is easier to wrap around the smokies and ensures that it cooks evenly.

2. Partially cook the bacon: Before wrapping the smokies, partially cook the bacon in a skillet for a few minutes. This will help render some of the fat and prevent it from becoming too greasy.

3. Secure with toothpicks: To keep the bacon in place while cooking, secure each end of the bacon-wrapped smokie with a toothpick. This will ensure that they stay together and maintain their shape.

4. Brush with glaze: For added flavor, brush the bacon-wrapped smokies with a glaze made from brown sugar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard before baking. This will give them a sweet and tangy taste.

5. Bake at high heat: To achieve crispy bacon, bake the wrapped smokies at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.

6. Drain excess grease: After baking, place the cooked smokies on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease before serving. This will help remove any unwanted greasiness.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be able to create perfectly cooked and delicious bacon wrapped smokies that are sure to impress your guests!

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Wrapped Smokies

1. Appetizer Platter: Arrange the bacon wrapped smokies on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces like barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch.

2. Party Skewers: Thread the cooked bacon wrapped smokies onto skewers along with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. This creates a visually appealing and delicious appetizer option.

3. Slider Bites: Slice mini buns in half and place a bacon wrapped smokie inside each one. Top with your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or pickles for a bite-sized snack that will impress your guests.

4. Salad Topping: Chop the cooked bacon wrapped smokies into small pieces and sprinkle them over a fresh green salad. The smoky flavor adds depth to the salad while the crispy texture provides a delightful contrast.

5. Breakfast Hash: Dice the cooked bacon wrapped smokies and sauté them with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast hash. Top with fried eggs for an extra indulgence.

These serving suggestions will elevate your bacon wrapped smokies to new heights and make them the star of any gathering or meal!

Variations and Additions to Bacon Wrapped Smokies

1. Cheese-Stuffed: Take your bacon wrapped smokies to the next level by adding a surprise burst of cheese inside. Simply cut each smokie lengthwise, stuff with your favorite cheese, and wrap it in bacon as usual. The melted cheese adds a gooey and delicious twist.

2. Spicy Kick: If you like some heat in your appetizers, try adding a sprinkle of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the bacon before wrapping it around the smokies. This will give your dish an extra kick that will leave your guests wanting more.

3. Sweet and Savory: For a delightful combination of flavors, brush the bacon wrapped smokies with maple syrup or honey before baking them. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty bacon, creating a mouthwatering treat.

4. Veggie Lovers: If you prefer a vegetarian option or want to add some veggies to your appetizers, consider wrapping asparagus spears or mini bell peppers with bacon instead of smokies. This variation adds color and freshness to the dish while still maintaining its irresistible appeal.

5. Glazed Goodness: Elevate your bacon wrapped smokies by glazing them with a homemade barbecue sauce or teriyaki glaze before baking. The sticky glaze caramelizes on the bacon, giving it a glossy finish and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

6. Mini Meatballs: Instead of using cocktail sausages, roll small meatballs out of ground beef or turkey seasoned with herbs and spices of your choice. Wrap each meatball in bacon for an elegant twist on traditional appetizers.

By experimenting with these variations and additions, you can create endless possibilities for your bacon wrapped smokies that will impress both friends and family alike!

In conclusion, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the perfect appetizer to impress your guests and elevate your cooking skills. The combination of crispy bacon and juicy cocktail sausages creates a mouthwatering flavor that is hard to resist. By following our step-by-step instructions and using the right ingredients, you can easily make these delicious bites at home.

Remember to experiment with different variations and additions to personalize your Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Whether it's adding a sprinkle of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness or wrapping them in puff pastry for an extra layer of indulgence, the possibilities are endless.

Don't forget our tips and tricks for perfect results every time. Pre-cooking the bacon slightly will ensure it becomes crispy without overcooking the sausages. And don't be afraid to get creative with your serving suggestions – from dipping sauces to garnishes, there are countless ways to enhance the presentation and taste.

So why not take your appetizers to the next level with this irresistible recipe? Bacon Wrapped Smokies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or party. With their savory flavors and easy preparation, they are a must-have in every cook's repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as your guests rave about your culinary skills!