Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

It's hard to go wrong with bacon-wrapped smokies! These bites are meaty, smoky, a little sweet, and nicely crispy in spots, with a bit of lovely char.

When you're arranging the smokies on the oven rack, you can secure them in place by sending one end of the toothpick through a hole in the rack; when you go to flip them over and brush them with sauce, this method will help keep them in place.

Learn how to make bacon-wrapped smokies. They are great as part of a breakfast buffet, for tailgating snacks, or on a Southern charcuterie board.

What Are Smokies?

Smokies are mini, smoked (hence the name) sausages typically made from pork, beef, or a combination of the two. They're a popular appetizer or snack at parties, tailgates, and other types of gatherings, and can be served wrapped in crescent dough, simmered in barbecue sauce, grilled, or pan-fried. They're a satisfying little finger food, packing a big punch of flavor thanks to the smoking process that infuses them with a slightly smoky taste.

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Just three main ingredients are needed to prepare these savory little bites, and each one packs a ton of flavor. To make bacon-wrapped smokies, you'll need:

• Cooking spray: To prevent the bacon-wrapped smokies from sticking to the wire rack.
• Smokies (mini smoked sausages): Little sausages with a smoky, meaty flavor.
• Regular-cut bacon: To wrap around the smokies for a crispy, salty exterior.
• Barbecue sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy coating to the bites that caramelizes as they bake.

How To Make Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Wrapping small sausages with bacon is a simple technique that transforms a classic appetizer into an irresistible treat with enhanced flavor and texture. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Wrap sausages with bacon: Wrap each smokie with a piece of bacon, and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on a wire rack and bake at 400°F on an oven-safe wire rack in a pan lined with foil or parchment until bacon is browned and crisp.
• Brush sausage bites with barbecue sauce: Remove pan from oven, and rotate smokies. Brush tops with barbecue sauce and bake until crisp and caramelized. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Variations

To change up these bacon-wrapped smokies, consider these variations:

• Sausages: Substitute the smokies with chicken or turkey sausages for a leaner option, or cocktail franks for a similar size.
• Bacon: Swap the sausages with turkey bacon or pancetta, if preferred.
• Barbecue sauce: Replace the barbecue sauce with teriyaki sauce, maple syrup, a balsamic glaze, sprinkling of brown sugar, or a combination of soy sauce and honey or apricot jam, as desired.
• Stuff with cheese: Wrap each smokie with a layer of Cheddar or pepper Jack cheese before wrapping in bacon for a cheesy addition.

Can I Prepare Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Ahead?

These bites can be prepared in advance, so they'll be ready to bake and serve hot when guests arrive. To make them ahead, assemble the bacon-wrapped smokies as directed. Wrap tightly or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few minutes to the initial baking time if needed.

What To Serve With Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Bacon-wrapped smokies are irresistible little bites that are a must-make for just about any occasion. To create a well-rounded spread, serve with a variety of classic dips, including guacamole, onion dip, or queso. Hot appetizers like mac and cheese balls, or potato skins can pair nicely, while deviled eggs, crudité, charcuterie and cheese boards, and more would also be a welcome addition to the table.

More Hearty Game Day Appetizers You'll Love

Game day appetizer recipes are designed to be crowd-pleasers, offering a variety of delicious, easy-to-make snacks that keep everyone satisfied and focused on the action:

• Buffalo Chicken Bites
• Spicy Cheese Twists
• Hasselback Sausage Bites
• Mini Potato Skins
• Loaded Deviled Eggs
• Fried Pickle Chips