Bacon Wrapped Smokies Recipe

Bacon: This is the star of the recipe, providing a crispy and savory wrap around the smokies.

Little smokies: These are small, cocktail-sized sausages that are perfect for appetizers.

Brown sugar: This adds a sweet glaze to the bacon, creating a delicious contrast of flavors.

To ensure the bacon is perfectly crispy, consider partially cooking it before wrapping the little smokies. This will help render some of the fat, allowing the bacon to crisp up more quickly in the oven without overcooking the smokies. Additionally, using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet can help the heat circulate around the bacon-wrapped smokies, promoting even cooking and crispiness.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option and provides a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thinly sliced Italian ham that offers a delicate, salty flavor and can crisp up nicely when cooked.

• little smokies - Substitute with mini chicken sausages: Mini chicken sausages are a lighter alternative and can be found in various flavors to match the dish.

• little smokies - Substitute with vegan sausages: Vegan sausages are a plant-based option that can mimic the texture and flavor of traditional smokies.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey offers a similar sweetness and can add a unique floral note to the dish.

• Allow the bacon-wrapped smokies to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps them from becoming soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the cooled smokies in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• If you want to freeze them, arrange the cooled smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the smokies are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the smokies to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the smokies in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, use the defrost setting on your microwave.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the thawed smokies on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.

• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are warmed through and the bacon is crispy.

• For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more brown sugar over the smokies before reheating to enhance the caramelized flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy again.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the smokies on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the smokies in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped smokies and cook, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

• If you prefer a slow cooker, place the smokies in the slow cooker and set it to low. Heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until they are warmed through. This method is great for keeping them warm during a party.

• Oven: Used to bake the bacon-wrapped smokies at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the bacon-wrapped smokies for baking.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around each smokie to ensure it stays wrapped during baking.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the bacon into thirds.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for cutting the bacon.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out 1 cup of brown sugar accurately.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to hold the brown sugar before sprinkling it over the smokies.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot bacon-wrapped smokies once they are done baking.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup.

Pre-cut the bacon: Buy pre-cut bacon or cut it in advance to save time during assembly.

Use a baking rack: Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on a baking rack over the baking sheet to allow even cooking and easier cleanup.

Prepare in batches: Assemble the smokies in batches and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or aluminum foil to line the baking sheet for quicker cleanup.

Pre-measure the brown sugar: Measure out the brown sugar beforehand to sprinkle it quickly over the smokies.