Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
These crispy bacon-wrapped smokies are the ultimate party appetizer—salty, sweet, and smoky with a caramelized brown sugar glaze. Quick to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for game nights, holidays, or any gathering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
- Total Time: 50–60 minutes
- Yield: 30–36 smokies 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound little smokies (beef or pork mini smoked sausages)
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional)
- 30–36 wooden toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. If using, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Soak toothpicks in water for about 10 minutes.
- Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, cut each bacon slice into thirds to create short strips.
- Wrap each little smokie with a piece of bacon, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick through the middle. Repeat with all smokies and bacon pieces.
- Arrange bacon-wrapped smokies seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them slightly apart.
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously over the top of each smokie. For extra caramelization, roll each smokie in brown sugar before placing on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle with cayenne or smoked paprika.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and sugar has melted into a golden, bubbly glaze. If bacon isn’t crisping, increase oven to 375°F for the last 10 minutes or broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a platter for serving.
Notes
For best results, use thin-cut bacon for crispiness and soak toothpicks to prevent burning. Don’t crowd the pan—use two sheets if needed. Roll smokies in brown sugar for extra crunch. Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For a spicy twist, add cayenne or smoked paprika. Check labels for gluten if needed. Can be made in an air fryer at 370°F for 10–15 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bacon-wrapped smok
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Protein: 3
Keywords: bacon-wrapped smokies, party appetizer, easy appetizer, game day snacks, holiday recipes, finger food, brown sugar bacon, little smokies, crowd pleaser, gluten-free appetizer