Introduction

These 3-Ingredient Bacon Smokies are the easiest appetizer you’ll ever make, perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings. With just little smokies, bacon, and brown sugar, you get a sweet and savory bite that disappears fast. For more crowd-pleasing sides, try this Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe or Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe to complete your spread.

Ingredients

These sweet and savory bacon wrapped little smokies combine crispy bacon, juicy sausages, and caramelized brown sugar for the perfect party appetizer.

• 1 pound bacon, not thick sliced
• 14 oz little smoked sausages (1 package)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to simplified preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Ingredients and Tools

Gather one 14-ounce package of Lit’l Smokies, one pound of thin-cut bacon, ½ cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. You’ll also need toothpicks and a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2 — Cut and Season Bacon

Slice each bacon strip into thirds crosswise. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and smoked paprika. Toss bacon pieces in the sugar mixture to coat evenly—this adds caramelization and flavor.

Step 3 — Wrap Smokies with Bacon

Take one Lit’l Smokie and wrap a seasoned bacon piece around it. Secure with a toothpick through the center, making sure the bacon seam is on the bottom. Repeat with remaining Smokies and bacon.

Step 4 — Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This allows hot air to circulate for even cooking and crisping.

Step 5 — Bake Until Crisp

Step 6 — Check for Doneness

Bacon should be fully cooked, crisp, and browned. If bacon isn’t crisp enough, bake an additional 2–3 minutes. The internal temperature of the Lit’l Smokies should reach 160°F when fully heated.

Step 7 — Serve Warm

Let Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. Offer barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Calories	110
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	1g
Fat	9g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	310mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey bacon — Leaner protein option with smoky flavor that crisps well
• Chicken sausage bites — Lower-fat alternative to traditional little smokies
• Turkey or chicken little smokies — Reduced fat while maintaining the classic texture
• Low-sodium bacon — Cuts salt content significantly while keeping the signature bacon flavor
• Plant-based bacon alternatives — Excellent for dairy-free and vegetarian diets
• Gluten-free cocktail sausages — Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities
• Water chestnuts wrapped in bacon — Lower-carb option with satisfying crunch
• Bacon-wrapped asparagus tips — Vegetable alternative that reduces carbs and adds nutrients

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these savory Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies with a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard, barbecue, or sweet chili for a flavor contrast.
• Serve as a game day appetizer alongside other finger foods like sliders, nachos, and veggie trays.
• Offer at holiday parties or potlucks—these Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are always a crowd-pleaser and easy to eat while mingling.
• Arrange on a rustic wooden board or in a slow cooker to keep warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a festive touch.
• Include in a brunch spread with items like scrambled eggs, fruit salad, and biscuits for a hearty start.
• Skewer two or three Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies with a decorative toothpick for easy grabbing and elegant presentation.

These Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are versatile enough for casual gatherings or special events, delivering a satisfying bite every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thick-cut bacon. Fix: Opt for regular-cut bacon, which cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly around the smokies.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking sheet. Fix: Space them at least an inch apart to ensure proper air circulation and even browning.
• Mistake: Skipping the toothpick soak. Fix: Soak toothpicks in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning in the oven.
• Mistake: Wrapping bacon too loosely. Fix: Wrap each smokie snugly with a partial bacon strip, securing the ends firmly with a toothpick.
• Mistake: Baking at too low a temperature. Fix: Cook at 400°F (200°C) to render fat effectively and achieve a crispy exterior.
• Mistake: Not using a wire rack. Fix: Place bacon wrapped smokies on a rack over a baking sheet to allow fat to drip away, preventing sogginess.
• Mistake: Forgetting to glaze during cooking. Fix: Brush with a brown sugar or maple glaze halfway through baking for a caramelized, sticky finish.
• Mistake: Serving immediately from the oven. Fix: Let them rest for 5 minutes so the bacon firms up and they’re cool enough to handle.
• Mistake: Using cold bacon straight from the fridge. Fix: Let bacon sit at room temperature for 15 minutes for more pliable, easier wrapping.
• Mistake: Not patting smokies dry. Fix: Pat smokies dry with a paper towel before wrapping to help the bacon adhere better and crisp up.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 375°F until hot (internal temperature of 165°F), or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

These Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering. If you love this easy, savory snack, be sure to try our Cheddar Ranch Crack Dip Recipe next! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below.

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FAQs

Can I make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies perfect for easy party prep.

What is the best way to keep the bacon from falling off?

Secure each piece with a toothpick before baking. Partially cooking the bacon first can also help it crisp up without shrinking too much. This ensures your Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies stay intact.

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with other small smoked sausages or even mini hot dogs. Just ensure they are a similar size so the bacon wraps and cooks evenly. The classic flavor of Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies is easy to adapt.