These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are a tasty treat! Wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with sweet brown sugar, they make a perfect party snack or game day delight.
Who knew little sausages could be this good? I can’t help but sneak a few as they bake—there’s just something about that sweet and salty combo that’s hard to resist! 😉
They’re super easy to make—just wrap, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for sharing, though I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These are the stars of the dish! You can find beef or pork versions, depending on your taste. For a turkey option, look for turkey smokies if you’re aiming for a lighter version.
Bacon: Thin-cut bacon crisps up nicely and wraps easily. If you prefer turkey bacon for a healthier twist, it can work too, though it may not get as crispy.
Brown Sugar: Regular brown sugar is great for that sweet flavor. If you want a touch more flavor, try using light or dark brown sugar. You could also use maple sugar for a unique sweetness.
Toothpicks: These help hold everything together. If you run out, small skewers or even kitchen twine can work in a pinch!
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting bacon crispy while still ensuring the insides are fully cooked is key. Here’s how:
- Thin slices cook faster and crisp more evenly, so aim for that if you can.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet; give each piece some space to cook properly.
- Flipping halfway through helps with even cooking, so be sure not to skip that step!
- If they need extra crisping, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes—just watch carefully to prevent burning.
Helpful Tips to Make These Smokies Shine
For the best results, allow the bacon-wrapped smokies to sit for a minute or two after baking. This helps the sugar set and makes them easier to handle. You can also double the batch as they’ll disappear quickly!
Don’t hesitate to customize! Try adding spices or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce before baking for a little extra kick. Enjoy your cooking!
Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14-ounce) package of Little Smokies sausages
- 10-12 slices of bacon (thin slices work best)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes to whip up these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfect cooking temperature for crispy bacon and a delicious glaze.
2. Prepare the Bacon
Grab your bacon slices and cut each one into thirds. If your Little Smokies are larger, you might want to cut them in half instead. This will help in wrapping them snugly.
3. Wrap Each Smokie
Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each Little Smokie. Secure it in place with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling while cooking.
4. Sweeten It Up
Now, coat the bacon-wrapped sausages by rolling each in the brown sugar until they are evenly covered. This will give them that tasty sweet glaze when cooked.
5. Arrange and Prepare for Baking
Place all the wrapped Little Smokies on a foil-lined baking sheet or a greased pan. Make sure to space them apart to allow hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
6. Bake to Perfection
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn the sausages over halfway through baking to get them crispy all around.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re golden and crispy, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm and enjoy these delightful bites!
These sweet and savory bacon-wrapped Little Smokies make a perfect appetizer or party treat with a delightfully sticky brown sugar glaze. Get ready for everyone to come back for seconds!
Can I Use Different Sausages Instead of Little Smokies?
Yes, you can! While Little Smokies are traditional for this recipe, you can use other types of sausages or even cocktail sausages if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the sausages.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Make These in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies up to a day in advance. Just wrap and coat them in brown sugar, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, throw them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
For a spicy kick, you can sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder over the brown sugar before coating the sausages. Another option is to use spicy sausages or add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving!
