Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies – Crispy, Savory, and Perfectly Bite-Sized

Name: Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies – Crispy, Savory, and Perfectly Bite-Sized
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds little smokies (can be beef or pork); 1 pound bacon (sliced into thirds); 0.5 cup brown sugar (packed)

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By: Maria
Posted: 01/02/2025

Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the ultimate appetizer that combines the savory flavors of bacon with the smoky, delicious taste of mini sausages. These bite-sized treats are wrapped in crispy bacon and brushed with a sweet and savory glaze, making them irresistible to everyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or just looking for a snack, these bacon-wrapped little smokies are guaranteed to be a hit. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re the perfect finger food that everyone will love.

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Ingredients:

1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies (cocktail sausages)
1 lb bacon (cut into thirds)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)

Directions:

Prepare the bacon-wrapped little smokies:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Wrap the sausages: Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each little smokie, securing the bacon with a toothpick. Place each bacon-wrapped sausage on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Make the glaze:

Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is smooth.

Bake the little smokies:

Coat with glaze: Brush the bacon-wrapped little smokies with the glaze, ensuring each one is well-coated.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are heated through. Halfway through baking, brush with more glaze for extra flavor and sweetness.

Serve:

Serve: Once baked, remove the little smokies from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Notes:

Bacon Options: You can use thick-cut bacon for a heartier bite, or regular bacon for a slightly crispier texture.
Make-Ahead: These can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Flavor Variations: If you like a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze, or drizzle some sriracha sauce over the top for a spicy kick.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy bacon.

Conclusion:

Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are the perfect appetizer or snack, offering a delicious combination of savory bacon, smoky sausages, and a sweet, tangy glaze. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a favorite at your next gathering. Whether served at a party, game day, or as a fun snack, these bacon-wrapped little smokies will disappear fast. Try them today for an irresistible and simple treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies ahead of time, and if so, how far in advance?

Yes, you can definitely assemble these ahead of time. Wrap the Little Smokies with bacon and secure with toothpicks, then arrange them on a baking sheet. You can store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply brush with the glaze and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the bacon crisps properly.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in the glaze, and how will they affect the flavor?

You can substitute maple syrup for the honey in the glaze, using the same 2 tablespoons measurement; this will give a slightly different, yet still delicious, sweetness. If you’re out of Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard, though the flavor will be less complex; use the same 2 tablespoons. For a gluten-free option, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari, using the same 1 tablespoon measurement.

How can I tell when the Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are perfectly cooked?

The Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies are perfectly cooked when the bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the sausages are heated through. The bacon should be firm to the touch and no longer translucent. The internal temperature of the sausages should reach at least 165°F (74°C), though you can’t check that easily. The entire cooking process should take approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on your oven.

Can I double or triple this recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. When doubling, you’ll need two packages of Little Smokies and two pounds of bacon. Make sure to use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent the bacon from crisping properly. You may need to increase the baking time slightly, so keep a close eye on them, and rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even cooking.

What is the nutritional value of this appetizer, and are there any health benefits?

This appetizer provides protein from the sausages and bacon. The glaze contributes some carbohydrates and antioxidants from the honey and soy sauce. Bacon provides some fat and sodium. While it’s not a health food, it can be part of a balanced diet in moderation. The Dijon mustard contains some beneficial compounds, and the honey offers some trace nutrients.