If you’re looking for the ultimate party appetizer, few dishes deliver like Bacon Wrapped Smokies. These bite-sized bundles of sweet, savory, and smoky goodness are a guaranteed hit for game days, potlucks, holiday gatherings, and any celebration in between. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and completely addictive. Whether you’re hosting a big party or just craving something indulgent, these are the perfect finger food to serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Irresistible Flavor Combo – The smoky bacon wrapped around sweet little sausages and glazed with brown sugar creates an incredible contrast of salty and sweet in every bite.
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Easy to Prepare – Minimal ingredients and basic steps make this recipe perfect even for beginner cooks.
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Perfect for Parties – These appetizers are crowd-pleasers and can be made in bulk ahead of time.
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Customizable – You can play with seasonings, sauces, and even spice levels to make the recipe your own.
Ingredients List
To make classic bacon wrapped smokies, you’ll need:
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1 (14-ounce) package of little smokies (cocktail sausages)
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1 pound of bacon (cut each strip into thirds)
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¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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1 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
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Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Servings: Makes 30–35 smokies (depending on package size)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup and place a wire rack on top if you want extra crispy bacon.
Step 2: Cut the Bacon
Cut each strip of bacon into thirds. You want each piece long enough to wrap around a single cocktail sausage without overlapping too much.
Step 3: Wrap the Smokies
Take one piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around a little smokie. Secure it in place with a toothpick.
Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place each wrapped smokie on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer and not touching too much, which helps them crisp evenly.
Step 5: Add the Sugar and Seasoning
Sprinkle the brown sugar generously over the top of the wrapped smokies. If you’re using garlic powder, chili powder, or cayenne for added flavor, mix it with the brown sugar before sprinkling.
Step 6: Bake Until Crispy
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crispy and the sugar has caramelized.
Step 7: Let Cool Slightly Before Serving
Allow the bacon wrapped smokies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a platter. The sugar glaze will be hot and sticky right out of the oven.
Variations You Can Try
Spicy Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your brown sugar mix for a spicy-sweet twist.
BBQ Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Brush the smokies with your favorite BBQ sauce before baking, then top with brown sugar for a smoky and tangy flavor profile.
Maple Glazed Smokies
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a deeper, more complex sweetness that pairs perfectly with bacon.
Cheese-Stuffed Smokies
Make a slit in the little smokies and add a small piece of cheddar or pepper jack cheese before wrapping them with bacon for a gooey surprise center.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
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Offer dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or spicy aioli.
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Pair them with other appetizers like sliders, veggie platters, or chips and dip.
Make Ahead Tips
You can assemble the bacon wrapped smokies a day in advance and store them (uncooked) in the fridge covered with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just sprinkle the sugar on top and pop them into the oven.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
How to Reheat
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bacon rubbery.
Can You Freeze Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
Yes! You can freeze them both before and after baking.
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Before baking: Assemble, then freeze on a tray. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
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After baking: Let them cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in a hot oven until warmed through.
Tips for Success
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Use thin-cut bacon for the best texture. Thick-cut bacon may take too long to crisp.
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For crispier results, use a wire rack so fat can drip off during baking.
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Don’t skip the foil or parchment liner—it saves a lot of cleanup!
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Toothpicks are a must to keep everything secure and easy to grab.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per piece)
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Calories: 80–90
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 7g
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Carbs: 3g
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Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutrition varies based on sausage and bacon type used.
What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Smokies
These savory bites pair well with:
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Creamy coleslaw
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Macaroni and cheese
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Cornbread or hushpuppies
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Pickles and olives for contrast
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Ice-cold beer or fizzy drinks
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, but it won’t crisp the same way as pork bacon. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes. Check and turn halfway through for even browning.
Can I make them without sugar?
Yes, but the brown sugar gives the dish its signature caramelized glaze. You can reduce it or use a sugar substitute if preferred.
Do I need to precook the bacon?
No need—thin-cut bacon cooks thoroughly in the oven. Just make sure it browns and crisps up.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, easily! Just use a larger baking sheet or bake in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are everything you want in an appetizer—simple, flavorful, and utterly crave-worthy. The smoky richness of bacon, the juicy snap of cocktail sausages, and the sweet glaze of brown sugar make for a combination that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re preparing for a party, holiday, or just a fun family night, these little bites deliver big-time flavor. Once you try them, you’ll find they quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.