Pig Shots Oven Baked

Name: Pig Shots Oven Baked
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 lb bacon (thick-cut is preferred); 8 oz sausage (spicy or mild); 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 0.5 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 tsp garlic powder

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By: Maria
Posted: 01/05/2025

Pig Shots Oven baked are the ultimate party appetizer! These bite-sized treats are made by wrapping smoky sausage in crispy bacon and stuffing them with a rich, creamy cheese filling. They’re easy to prepare, loaded with flavor, and perfect for tailgating, holiday gatherings, or game day Snacks. You’ll love how the bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven, making every bite irresistible!

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Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) thick-cut bacon slices
1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage, cut into ½-inch thick slices
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
Toothpicks

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Sausage

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each half slice of bacon around a piece of smoked sausage, forming a small “cup.” Secure with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and smoked paprika. Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Fill the Pig Shots

Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the bacon-wrapped sausage cups, filling them just to the top. If desired, sprinkle a little brown sugar over each filled pig shot for a hint of sweetness.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pig shots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Allow the pig shots to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as is!

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke to the cheese filling.
If you prefer spicier pig shots, add diced jalapeños to the filling or sprinkle with cayenne pepper.
These can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven just before serving.

Conclusion

Pig Shots Oven Baked are an easy yet impressive appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With their savory bacon, smoky sausage, and cheesy filling, they deliver the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Serve them at your next event, and watch them disappear in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Pig Shots ahead of time and how should I store them?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the Pig Shots in advance. You can assemble them completely and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, you can bake them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake the refrigerated, unbaked pig shots at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated through. Reheat baked pig shots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

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

You can substitute the smoked sausage with other types of sausage like chorizo for a spicier flavor, or Italian sausage for a different herb profile. For the cheddar cheese, you can use other shredded cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for heat, or a Mexican blend. If you don’t have green onions, you can substitute with finely chopped chives. Smoked paprika can be substituted with regular paprika, but the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. Brown sugar is optional, but can be replaced with maple syrup or honey for a similar sweet glaze.

How do I know when the Pig Shots are perfectly cooked?

The Pig Shots are perfectly cooked when the bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese filling is bubbly and slightly melted. The internal temperature of the sausage should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Visually, the bacon should have shrunk slightly and become firm. The aroma will be a combination of smoky bacon and melted cheese. If you use a meat thermometer, insert it into the center of a sausage slice to check for doneness.

Can I scale this recipe up or double it for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe for a larger crowd. When doubling, use two pounds of bacon and sausage, 16 ounces of cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, along with the appropriate amount of green onions, smoked paprika and brown sugar. Ensure you use multiple baking sheets or bake in batches to avoid overcrowding. You may need to increase the baking time slightly, but keep a close eye on the bacon to prevent burning.

What is the nutritional value of these Pig Shots?

Pig Shots are a high-protein, savory appetizer. They provide protein from the sausage, bacon, and cream cheese. The cheddar cheese adds calcium. The main health benefits are in the protein content, which aids in muscle building and satiety. However, they are also high in fat and sodium due to the bacon and cheese, so enjoy them in moderation.