If there’s one appetizer that disappears faster than anything else on the table, it’s Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies. This simple comfort food is perfect for holidays, game days, and potlucks. You only need three core ingredients: cocktail sausages (little smokies), regular-cut bacon, and brown sugar.
As they bake, the brown sugar melts and caramelizes, creating a glossy, sticky, and sweet coating over the savory, crispy bacon. It is an incredibly easy, budget-friendly recipe that is guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Also Read : Saffron risotto
Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Course: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium10
servings10
minutes25
minutes345
kcalIngredients
Main Ingredients:
1 (14-ounce) package little smokies (cocktail sausages)
12 slices regular-cut bacon, cut into thirds
1 cup packed brown sugar
Optional Additions:
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon maple syrup (for drizzle)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F–400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if you want crispier bacon.
- Prepare the Bacon: Cut each slice of bacon into thirds. This creates the perfect size pieces for wrapping each smokie.
- Wrap the Smokies: Wrap one piece of bacon around each little smokie. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or rack.
- Add the Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over each wrapped smokie, coating generously. For extra coverage, you can roll each one in a bowl of brown sugar before placing on the pan.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and the brown sugar has melted and caramelized.
- Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully to prevent burning!
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. The glaze will thicken slightly as it sets.
Notes
- Bacon Choice: Regular-cut bacon works best for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon can take longer to cook and may not crisp up as easily before the brown sugar caramelizes.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F in the air fryer for 10–15 minutes, checking frequently. Work in batches and avoid overcrowding.
- Make-Ahead: You can wrap the smokies in bacon and refrigerate them (uncooked) up to 24 hours in advance. Add the brown sugar right before baking.
- Slow Cooker Serving: After baking, transfer the smokies to a slow cooker on the “warm” setting to keep them hot for parties.
