When the weekend rolls around and the craving for something indulgent strikes, I often find myself gravitating towards a dish that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying: Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar and Butter. This scrumptious appetizer is not just a delight for the taste buds; it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes any gathering feel special. Picture smoky little sausages enveloped in crispy bacon, kissed with buttery brown sugar that caramelizes into a glaze of pure magic.
It all started at a potluck when I spotted a platter of these tempting morsels on the table. The aroma was irresistible, and before I knew it, I was back at the buffet for seconds—no, thirds! Now, I always keep this recipe close at hand, perfect for unexpected guests or lazy evenings when I need a comforting bite. Surprisingly easy to whip up, this dish is a testament to how just three ingredients can transform a mundane gathering into a feast of flavor. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe proves that great taste doesn’t have to be complicated. Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive in!
Why are Bacon Wrapped Smokies so addictive?
Irresistible flavor: The perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory keeps you coming back for more.
Simplicity: With just three main ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort—ideal for busy hosts!
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with spices or bacon types, tailoring it to your taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at parties or cozy family dinners, these bites consistently impress.
Quick preparation: Bake them in under 30 minutes, making it a speedy option when cravings strike.
For an equally delightful indulgence, don’t forget to try my Brown Sugar Garlic for another impressive twist!
Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar and Butter Ingredients
• For the Main Dish
- Little Smokies Sausages – Smoky mini sausages that offer a burst of umami flavor. Substitutions: Mini chicken sausages or vegetarian sausages work wonderfully too.
- Bacon (thin-cut recommended) – Provides that crispy texture and salty depth. Substitutions: Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter option.
- Brown Sugar – Ideal for sweetness and creating a sticky glaze as it caramelizes. Substitution: Maple syrup can lend a richer, earthy flavor.
- Butter – Helps the brown sugar caramelize beautifully while adding richness. Substitutions: Vegan butter or olive oil can be used if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
• Optional Enhancements
- Black Pepper – Adds a subtle spicy kick for complexity.
- Paprika or Chili Powder – For a hint of depth and mild heat.
Transform your gatherings with these delightful Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar and Butter—simple to make, yet impressive enough to wow any crowd!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Smokies
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the perfect crispy texture for your bacon and caramelization of the brown sugar while baking.
- Cut the bacon strips in half. Each half will wrap around one sausage, creating that delightful crispy layer.
- Wrap each Little Smokie with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to keep it all together while cooking.
- Combine in a zip-top bag: the bacon-wrapped sausages and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Shake gently to coat until each sausage is blissfully covered in sweetness.
- Transfer the coated smokies to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar over them, along with black pepper, if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon looks crispy and the sugar is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if you want extra crispiness, but keep an eye on them!
- Rest for 5 minutes. Allow the smokies to cool slightly so that the glaze can set, locking in that delicious flavor.
Optional: Serve these smokies with a side of honey mustard or barbecue sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Smokies
- Pre-Bake Prep: To save time, wrap the sausages and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking your bacon wrapped smokies.
- Crispy Finish: For extra crispiness, place the sausages on a wire rack set above the baking sheet during baking, allowing heat to circulate.
- Avoid Sogginess: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent the brown sugar from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Tip on Bacon: If using thick-cut bacon, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F and extend the baking time to prevent burning.
- Flavor Combinations: Play with spices! Adding black pepper, paprika, or even cayenne pepper can elevate your bacon wrapped smokies with brown sugar and butter.
- Serving Suggestion: For added fun, serve them with a variety of dips like honey mustard or spicy barbecue sauce, creating an inviting appetizer spread.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delectable little bites, and elevate the classic recipe with exciting twists!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based sausage and bacon alternatives to keep it meat-free but equally tasty!
- Maple Magic: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory bacon.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brown sugar for a warm burst of heat that enhances every bite.
- Herbal Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the brown sugar mixture for an unexpected burst of herbal flavor.
- Savory Depth: Experiment with smoked paprika for an added layer of smokiness that will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
- Crispy Finish: Try using thick-cut bacon or broil the smokies for an additional crispy texture that takes this finger food to the next level.
- Sweet & Tart: Sprinkle a touch of lemon zest on top before serving to brighten the flavors and add a zingy contrast to the sweetness.
Storage Tips for Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze bacon wrapped smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the smokies and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a convenient, time-saving option when entertaining.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven for the best results, allowing the glaze to become sticky and the bacon crispy again.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar and Butter?
Create the ultimate appetizer spread that complements the sweet and savory flavors of these irresistible bites.
- Honey Mustard Dip: A tangy contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the smokies, enhancing every bite.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and coolness of coleslaw add a refreshing element, offsetting the richness of the bacon.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A warm, creamy side that creates a comforting plate that pairs beautifully with the meaty flavors of the smokies.
- Roasted Veggies: Colorful and flavorful roasted vegetables lighten the meal, providing a healthy counterpoint to the indulgence.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette brighten up the table, making it a well-rounded feast.
- Cheesy Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food that brings warmth and creaminess, making it a perfect match for your smokies.
- Sparkling Wine: Elevate your gathering with a bubbly drink, enhancing the flavors of the smoky appetizer while keeping the mood festive.
Each of these pairings draws out the magic in your Bacon Wrapped Smokies, turning simple ingredients into an unforgettable dining experience!
Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar and Butter Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bacon for my Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
Absolutely! I recommend using thin-cut bacon as it crisps up beautifully and cooks evenly. Look for bacon that has a good balance of meat and fat for the best flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can also work wonderfully, giving that savory taste without the heaviness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
Very! Store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. By reheating in the oven or an air fryer, you can restore that delightful crispiness. Just heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, and you’ll be enjoying those flavors all over again!
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
Definitely! To freeze, first place your assembled smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze them for about 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
What do I do if the bacon isn’t crispy enough after baking?
No worries! If your bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like after the initial bake, you can pop them under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Alternatively, if you’re using thick-cut bacon, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F and increasing the baking time for better results.
Are these Bacon Wrapped Smokies suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! These bites can easily be tailored to meet various dietary needs. Substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based option to cater to health-conscious eaters. Additionally, you can swap the brown sugar for maple syrup if you’re looking for a refined sugar alternative. Just make sure to check any specific allergies, especially with the sausages used.
How long can I make Bacon Wrapped Smokies ahead of time?
The more the merrier! You can prepare these smoky delights up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap the sausages and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a quick and easy appetizer solution, especially for gatherings or parties!
Irresistibly Sweet Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar Bliss
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Zip-top bag
Ingredients
- 1 package Little Smokies Sausages Substitutions: Mini chicken sausages or vegetarian sausages work wonderfully too.
- 1 pound Bacon Thin-cut recommended. Substitutions: Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Substitution: Maple syrup can lend a richer, earthy flavor.
- 1/4 cup Butter Substitutions: Vegan butter or olive oil can be used if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
- to taste Black Pepper Optional, adds a subtle spicy kick.
- to taste Paprika or Chili Powder Optional for a hint of depth and mild heat.
Instructions
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Smokies
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the perfect crispy texture for your bacon and caramelization of the brown sugar while baking.
- Cut the bacon strips in half. Each half will wrap around one sausage, creating that delightful crispy layer.
- Wrap each Little Smokie with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to keep it all together while cooking.
- Combine in a zip-top bag: the bacon-wrapped sausages and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Shake gently to coat until each sausage is blissfully covered in sweetness.
- Transfer the coated smokies to a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Sprinkle any remaining brown sugar over them, along with black pepper, if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon looks crispy and the sugar is melted and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if you want extra crispiness, but keep an eye on them!
- Rest for 5 minutes. Allow the smokies to cool slightly so that the glaze can set, locking in that delicious flavor.
Notes
Leave a Comment