Ingredients
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To make this easy appetizer recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 (14-ounce) package Little Smokies cocktail sausages (beef or pork)
- 1 pound regular-cut bacon, cut into thirds
- ½ cup light or dark brown sugar
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
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Step 2: Wrap the Smokies
Cut each bacon slice into thirds.
Wrap one piece of bacon around each cocktail sausage and secure it with a toothpick if necessary.
Arrange the wrapped smokies in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Add the Brown Sugar
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the wrapped sausages.
The sugar will melt and caramelize during baking, creating a delicious sweet glaze.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the brown sugar is bubbling and golden brown.
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the smokies to cool slightly before serving.
Transfer them to a serving platter and watch them disappear within minutes.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Use Regular-Cut Bacon
Thin bacon crisps up nicely without overwhelming the sausage. Thick-cut bacon may require additional cooking time.
Try Different Sausage Varieties
Beef, pork, cheddar-filled, or spicy cocktail sausages all work well in this recipe.
Make Them Ahead of Time
You can assemble the smokies several hours before baking and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
Add Extra Flavor
For a flavor upgrade, try adding:
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Maple syrup
- Honey glaze
- Cracked black pepper
- BBQ seasoning
Perfect Occasions for Serving Bacon Wrapped Smokies
These versatile appetizers are ideal for:
- Holiday parties
- Christmas gatherings
- Super Bowl celebrations
- Tailgate parties
- Family reunions
- Potluck dinners
- Birthday parties
- Backyard barbecues
Their bite-sized format makes them easy to serve and enjoy without utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bacon Wrapped Smokies ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Can I cook them in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for approximately 10–12 minutes, checking frequently for desired crispness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
Yes. Freeze them before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Southern 3-Ingredient Bacon Wrapped Smokies prove that simple recipes are often the most memorable. With just cocktail sausages, bacon, and brown sugar, you can create a crowd-favorite appetizer that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing game day snacks, or looking for an easy party appetizer, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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