Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious appetizer that everyone will love? This recipe for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is the perfect choice for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. The combination of sweet brown sugar and savory bacon creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In just a few simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next event. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up this delightful treat in no time. Your guests will rave about these tasty morsels as they enjoy the crispy bacon wrapped around juicy little smokies. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or as part of a larger spread, these smoky bites are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Get ready to dive into this scrumptious recipe that blends sweet and savory flavors seamlessly!
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 bite-sized sausages are the star of the dish; choose regular or beef varieties based on your preference
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for added flavor and texture; cut each strip into thirds to wrap around the smokies
- Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramelization during baking; light or dark brown sugar works well
- Soy Sauce: Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less saltiness
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). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut each slice of bacon into thirds. Take one little smokie and wrap a piece of bacon around it securely. Place it seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Mix the Topping
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and soy sauce until well mixed. You can adjust the ratio according to your taste preference.
Step 4: Coat the Wrapped Smokies
Drizzle or brush the brown sugar mixture over each bacon-wrapped smokie generously. Ensure they are covered evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake Them Up
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before transferring them to a serving platter. Enjoy them warm!
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
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Baking Sheet Prep: Use nonstick cooking spray on your foil-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking
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. Assemble them a day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to deepen. Bake them fresh when you’re ready, usually about 25-30 minutes at 375°F.
- Storing: For any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to two months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the little smokies on a baking tray and warm for about 15 minutes until they are heated through. This method ensures they retain their crispy bacon texture.
Suggestions for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies :
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Fresh bacon not only enhances flavor but also ensures a crispy texture. Stale or old bacon can lead to an undesirable taste and greasy finish. Additionally, opt for high-quality little smokies; the better the quality of your sausage, the tastier the final dish will be. Avoid using pre-cooked sausages as they may lack the rich flavor profile you’re aiming for. By prioritizing freshness, you’ll elevate your dish and impress your guests.
Don’t Overcook the Bacon
Overcooking the bacon can ruin your Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. While you want the bacon to be crispy, excessive cooking can make it too tough and chewy. Aim for a balance where the bacon is cooked through but still has some flexibility. If you cook it until it’s overly crispy before wrapping it around the smokies, it will become even crunchier in the oven, potentially leading to an unappetizing texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure perfect results.
Avoid Excessive Sugar
While brown sugar is essential for this recipe, using too much can overpower the dish. The sweetness should complement the savory flavors of the bacon and little smokies, not overshadow them. Stick to the recommended amount of brown sugar in your recipe; excess sugar can create a burnt or caramelized layer that detracts from the overall taste. Adjusting sugar levels carefully will help retain that sweet-savory balance that makes these bites so delicious.
Skipping Soaking Wooden Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers to hold your Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies together, soaking them in water beforehand is vital. This step prevents burning during cooking and ensures they hold up well throughout the baking process. Without soaking, skewers can easily catch fire or become charred, which may affect both presentation and flavor. Take this extra step to guarantee that your party appetizer remains intact and appealing.
FAQs :
How do I store leftovers of Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies?
Storing leftovers of Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is straightforward. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they will last up to three months in the freezer if well-wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil first. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crispy again.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative when making Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Turkey bacon generally has less fat than traditional pork bacon, resulting in a lighter version of this classic appetizer. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon may not crisp up as well as pork bacon does due to its lower fat content. To enhance its crispiness, consider baking it slightly longer or broiling it briefly at the end of cooking.
What dipping sauces pair well with these little smokies?
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces that enhance their flavor profile. Sweet barbecue sauce complements their sweetness perfectly while adding a smoky touch. Honey mustard offers a tangy contrast that balances out both sugar and saltiness from the dish. For something spicier, try sriracha or chipotle mayo for an exciting kick. Experimenting with different sauces allows you to customize each bite according to your guests’ preferences.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies ahead of time is convenient for gatherings or parties. You can assemble them earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake later on, which saves you time when hosting guests. Just cover them with plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake according to your recipe instructions straight from chilled; no need for thawing!
Conclusion for Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies :
In summary, making perfect Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies involves careful attention to detail regarding ingredient freshness and cooking techniques. Avoid common mistakes such as overcooking bacon or using excessive sugar to maintain a balanced flavor profile within each bite-sized treat. Proper storage allows you to enjoy leftovers without compromising quality while experimenting with dipping sauces adds an extra layer of fun at gatherings. By following these guidelines and tips shared above, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to impress everyone who tries it!
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines sweet and savory in every bite. Ideal for any gathering, these bite-sized sausages are wrapped in crispy bacon and coated with a luscious brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a cozy family dinner, these delectable smokies will have everyone coming back for seconds. With just four simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this irresistible dish. Serve them warm straight from the oven or accompany them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
- Little Smokies (regular or beef)
- Thick-cut bacon
- Brown sugar (light or dark)
- Soy sauce (low-sodium option available)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Cut each slice of thick-cut bacon into thirds. Wrap one piece around each little smokie and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar and soy sauce until combined.
- Brush or drizzle the mixture generously over each bacon-wrapped smokie.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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