Description
These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Imagine tiny, smoky sausages embraced by crispy, caramelized bacon, all infused with the deep, rich sweetness of brown sugar and a hint of black pepper. This appetizer is incredibly simple to prepare, yet delivers an explosion of flavor that will have your guests clamoring for more. Perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any casual get-together, these little bites are utterly irresistible. They strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and smoky, making them a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids. Forget complicated hors d’oeuvres; this is quick, easy, and endlessly satisfying!
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely adore this recipe because it ticks all the boxes: simple, delicious, and addictive! First, it requires minimal ingredients and effort. The preparation is so straightforward that even a novice cook can master it. Second, the flavor profile is phenomenal. The combination of smoky little smokies, salty bacon, and sweet brown sugar creates a delightful symphony on your palate. The bacon crisps up beautifully, the brown sugar caramelizes into a sticky glaze, and the little smokies add a juicy, savory core. Finally, these little bites are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer, a snack, or even as a fun addition to a buffet. Plus, they are always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Who can resist bacon-wrapped anything, especially when it’s bathed in brown sugar goodness? The answer is: no one!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) package little smokies sausages
- 1 lb thin-cut bacon, each slice cut into three
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- Freshly grated black pepper, to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray or aluminum foil for the baking sheet
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheet by greasing it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Ensuring proper greasing or lining will prevent the bacon and brown sugar from sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Take each slice of bacon and cut it into thirds. Thin-cut bacon works best because it crisps up more quickly and evenly. Thicker bacon might not fully cook and crisp within the allotted baking time, resulting in a chewy, less desirable texture. The smaller pieces are also easier to wrap around the little smokies.
Step 3: Pat the little smokies sausages dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture will help the bacon adhere better and crisp up properly. Moisture can create steam, which will inhibit the browning and crisping of the bacon.
Step 4: Wrap each little smokies sausage with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. The toothpick is essential for keeping the bacon in place during baking. Without it, the bacon might unravel and not cook evenly. Ensure the toothpick goes through both ends of the bacon to firmly secure it to the sausage.
Step 5: Place the brown sugar in a large zip-top bag. Add a few of the bacon-wrapped sausages to the bag and shake well to coat them thoroughly with brown sugar. Remove the sausages from the bag and place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Repeat this process with the remaining sausages, ensuring each one is generously coated in brown sugar. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the bag and ensure even coating.
Step 6: Once all the sausages are arranged on the baking sheet, sprinkle them with freshly grated black pepper, if desired. The black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a touch of complexity to the flavor profile, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar. Adjust the amount of pepper to your personal preference.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies warm, directly from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. Arrange them artfully on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color. They pair well with a variety of dips, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing. Consider serving them alongside other appetizers like mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or cheese and crackers for a complete and satisfying spread. These little smokies are perfect for parties, game days, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you need a quick and delicious snack. They can also be served as part of a larger buffet spread, adding a sweet and savory element to the table.
Tips:
- For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper instead of foil.
- If you don’t have a zip-top bag, you can use a large bowl to coat the sausages in brown sugar.
- If the bacon is not browning enough, you can broil the sausages for a minute or two at the end of the cooking time. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
- To make ahead, wrap the sausages in bacon and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also coat them in brown sugar ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar for a little heat.
- Use maple-flavored bacon for an even richer flavor.
- Try different types of sausages, such as spicy Italian or chicken sausages, for a unique twist.
- To ensure the bacon stays crispy after baking, place the cooked little smokies on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off excess grease.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Bake in batches if necessary to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- You can use wooden skewers to thread a few little smokies onto each skewer for easier handling and serving, especially at parties.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, varies based on brand and specific ingredients used)
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 8-10g
- Sodium: 400-500mg
Conclusion
Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create culinary magic. This recipe is more than just a quick and easy appetizer; it’s a flavor explosion that will leave your guests impressed and wanting more. The sweet and savory combination is irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or simply craving a delicious snack, these little smokies are sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of these addictive treats. You won’t be disappointed! The balance of salty, sweet, smoky, and savory is something that makes this recipe stand out.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! One of the great things about this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can wrap the little smokies in bacon, secure them with toothpicks, and even coat them in brown sugar up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is especially convenient when you’re preparing for a party or gathering and want to get a head start on the appetizers. Just remember to take them out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow them to come to room temperature slightly, which will help them cook more evenly.
Q2: What if I don’t have brown sugar? Can I use something else?
A: While brown sugar provides the best flavor and caramelization, you can substitute it with other sweeteners in a pinch. If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses will mimic the flavor and color of brown sugar quite well. You could also use maple syrup or honey, but keep in mind that these will add a slightly different flavor profile. If using liquid sweeteners, be careful as they might make the bacon a bit stickier and more prone to burning, so watch them closely during baking.
Q3: How do I prevent the bacon from burning before the sausage is cooked through?
A: Preventing the bacon from burning while ensuring the sausage is fully cooked requires a bit of attention and potentially a slight adjustment to the oven temperature. First, make sure you are using thin-cut bacon, as it cooks more quickly and evenly. If you notice the bacon is browning too rapidly, you can loosely tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil to shield it from direct heat. Alternatively, you can lower the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit and extend the cooking time slightly. This will allow the sausage to cook through without the bacon becoming overly crispy or burnt. Monitoring the little smokies closely during baking is crucial to achieving the perfect balance.
Q4: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
A: Yes, you can definitely use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative to regular bacon. However, keep in mind that turkey bacon tends to be leaner and may not render as much fat as regular bacon, which can affect the overall crispiness and flavor. To compensate for this, you might want to lightly brush the turkey bacon with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray before wrapping the sausages. Also, turkey bacon tends to cook faster, so keep a close eye on the little smokies and adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out or burning.
Q5: What are some variations I can try to spice up this recipe?
A: There are numerous ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture. You can also incorporate a drizzle of hot sauce, like sriracha or Tabasco, after baking. To add depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or garlic powder in the brown sugar mixture. Another variation is to add a glaze after baking, such as a honey-mustard glaze or a bourbon glaze. Experiment with different types of sausages, such as spicy Italian or andouille, to add a unique flavor dimension. You can also try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, after baking for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavor combinations!
