If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines sweetness with savory goodness, look no further than Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. These bite-sized delights are incredibly simple to prepare and will surely impress your guests at any gathering. The combination of crispy bacon and sweet brown sugar creates a flavor explosion that complements the juicy little smokies perfectly. You can whip up this dish in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for parties, game days, or even family dinners. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its taste but also in its versatility; you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or enjoying them as a weeknight treat, these tasty morsels will be the star of the show. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Little Smokies: These small sausage links are the star ingredient; choose your favorite brand for optimal flavor.
- Bacon Strips: Use regular or thick-cut bacon based on how crispy you prefer it; cut each strip into thirds.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well; it adds that essential sweetness to balance the salty bacon.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut each bacon strip into thirds. You will wrap each little smokie with one-third of a bacon strip.
Step 3: Wrap the Little Smokies
Take one little smokie and wrap it snugly with a piece of bacon. Secure it with a toothpick if needed.
Step 4: Coat with Brown Sugar
Place all the wrapped smokies onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle brown sugar generously over each one.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Transfer to plates and serve warm as an irresistible appetizer that everyone will love!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Bacon Choice: Choose high-quality bacon for better flavor; it makes a noticeable difference in the final dish
- Serve Immediately: For optimal taste and texture, serve these treats right after baking while they’re still warm
How to Serve Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
This Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies in advance by wrapping them in bacon and coating them with brown sugar. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispy bacon texture.
Suggestions for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies :
Avoid Overcooking the Bacon
When preparing brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies, one common mistake is overcooking the bacon. Overcooked bacon can become too crispy and may lose its delicious flavor. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely. Typically, you should aim for a cooking time of 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on your little smokies as they cook; if your bacon starts to crisp before the smokies are heated through, it’s better to remove them from the oven early. This way, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance between crispy bacon and juicy sausages.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Another tip to elevate your brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies is to use fresh ingredients. While pre-packaged items might seem convenient, fresh bacon and quality little smokies will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh bacon has a better texture and taste compared to frozen or processed options. When selecting your ingredients, check for quality labels and expiration dates. Fresh produce not only tastes better but also ensures that your dish will be healthier and more aromatic.
Don’t Skimp on Brown Sugar
Using enough brown sugar is crucial for achieving that perfect sweet and savory balance in brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies. Many people make the mistake of using too little sugar, which can lead to bland results. Aim for about half a cup of brown sugar for every pound of bacon used. This quantity allows the sugar to caramelize properly during cooking, creating a delightful glaze that complements the smoky flavor of the bacon and enhances the overall experience of these appetizers.
Serve with Dipping Sauces
Many people forget that serving suggestions can elevate their brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces alongside these tasty treats. Options like mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy hot sauce can add an exciting twist to their flavor profile. Not only do dipping sauces enhance taste but they also encourage guests to personalize their eating experience according to their preferences. Just remember to keep portions manageable so everyone gets a chance to enjoy them!
FAQs :
What are Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
Brown sugar wrapped little smokies are bite-sized sausages wrapped in strips of and coated in brown sugar before baking until crispy and caramelized. This appetizer combines smoky flavors from the sausage with sweetness from the brown sugar, making it a favorite at parties and gatherings. The preparation is simple: wrap each sausage with bacon, secure it with a toothpick if needed, coat with brown sugar, and bake until golden brown. They are perfect for game days, holiday celebrations, or casual get-togethers.
Can I Make Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare brown sugar wrapped little smokies ahead of time! To do this, you can wrap the sausages in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This technique allows flavors to meld together while saving you time on game day or during gatherings. When you’re ready to serve them, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed—no need for thawing if they have been refrigerated.
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! You can use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative when making brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies. Turkey bacon provides a lower-fat option while still delivering great flavor when cooked properly. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as well as traditional pork bacon due to its different fat content. Adjust cooking times accordingly; start checking earlier than usual so you achieve the desired texture without burning.
What Are Some Variations for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
There are numerous variations you can explore when making brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies! For instance, try adding spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brown sugar mixture for added heat. Alternatively, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile—just be cautious with moisture levels during baking since syrup is liquid-based. You could also experiment with different types of sausage or add cheese fillings inside each sausage before wrapping them in bacon!
Conclusion for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies :
In conclusion, mastering brown sugar bacon wrapped little smokies involves understanding key aspects such as ingredient quality, cooking times, and serving suggestions. Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking and using insufficient amounts of brown sugar by following our suggestions carefully. By preparing these delicious bites ahead of time or experimenting with variations like turkey bacon or different spices, you’ll create an unforgettable appetizer that wows guests at any gathering. With fresh ingredients and suitable dipping sauces by your side, these treats will surely be a hit every time!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining sweet and savory flavors for a delicious bite-sized treat. These delightful morsels are super easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion—from game day to holiday gatherings. With crispy bacon wrapped around juicy little smokies and coated in brown sugar, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will impress your guests. In less than an hour, you can whip up this irresistible dish that’s sure to steal the spotlight at your next event. Whether you’re serving them with dipping sauces or as part of a larger spread, these tasty bites are a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Little Smokies sausages
- 1 pound bacon strips (cut into thirds)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wrap each Little Smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the wrapped sausages on the baking sheet and sprinkle generously with brown sugar and black pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces (60g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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