Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon: The Ultimate Irresistible Party Appetizer
Few appetizers are as irresistibly delicious as Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon.
These bite-sized cocktail sausages wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon and glazed with caramelized brown sugar create a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, holiday gathering, or casual get-together, this crowd-pleaser disappears from the tray in no time.
Let us guide you through a simple recipe that guarantees perfectly crispy, flavorful bites every time.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- Little Smokies cocktail sausages (1 package, 14 oz): The star of the dish, these savory, smoky mini sausages provide a juicy and flavorful base.
- Bacon, cut into thirds (1 package, 16 oz): Wrapping the sausages with bacon adds richness, a satisfying crunch, and deep smoky flavor.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Sprinkled on top to caramelize during baking, adding a delicious sweet glaze that perfectly complements the salty bacon.
- Toothpicks (as needed): Essential for securing the bacon around each Little Smokie for even cooking and easy handling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup quick and easy.
- Wrap the Smokies: Take one Little Smokie sausage and wrap it tightly with a third of a bacon slice. Secure it with a toothpick to keep the bacon in place.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies on the foil-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Add Brown Sugar: Generously sprinkle brown sugar over each wrapped sausage, coating them evenly. This will melt and caramelize for a sweet, glossy finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has caramelized beautifully.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let the Little Smokies cool for a few minutes. Carefully remove the toothpicks and transfer them to a serving platter.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd Favorite
The perfect blend of smoky, savory bacon and juicy Little Smokies with a sweet caramelized glaze makes this appetizer addictive.
Its ease of preparation, minimal ingredients, and impressive presentation mean you can whip it up quickly for any occasion and get rave reviews.
Plus, it’s easy to customize—try swapping brown sugar for maple syrup or adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Pro Tips for Perfect Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon
- Use thin-cut bacon: It crisps up nicely without overcooking the sausage.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each wrapped smokie space so the bacon crisps evenly.
- Line your baking sheet: Aluminum foil or parchment paper prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Keep an eye on the last 5 minutes: Brown sugar can burn quickly, so check frequently to get the perfect caramelization.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon warm as a standout appetizer alongside classic party dips like mustard or ranch dressing.
Pair them with crispy potato wedges, a fresh veggie platter, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
They also make a fantastic addition to a game-day buffet or holiday spread.
