These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are a tasty treat that brings together smoky sausages wrapped in crispy bacon with a sweet brown sugar glaze. They’re perfect for parties!
Who can resist that sweet and salty combo? I could eat these all day, even for breakfast! 😄 Just pop them in the oven, and you’ve got an easy and delicious snack ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages add great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken little smokies are available. They work pretty well and still taste great!
Bacon: Regular bacon gives a perfect crisp. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter version, or even maple bacon for an extra sweet flavor boost!
Brown Sugar: Essential for that sweet glaze! If brown sugar isn’t on hand, coconut sugar or even honey can be used, but adjust the amount as honey is sweeter.
Parsley: It’s optional, but fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, any fresh herb you like, like cilantro or chives, could work instead.
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Is Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that bacon to a crispy goodness is key! Here are some important points to follow:
- Preheat your oven properly to make sure the bacon cooks evenly.
- Place the smokies on a wire rack; this elevates them and lets fat drip away, leading to a crispier bacon.
- Monitor cooking time closely. Cooking over 25-30 minutes helps to avoid soggy bacon, and flipping halfway ensures both sides get nice and crispy.
Patience is key here, and don’t rush the process! A little extra time in the oven can make a huge difference in texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb little smokies sausages (cocktail sausages)
- 8-10 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley
- Optional: coarse sea salt for finishing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish, including cooking time. Then you’ll have a sweet and savory treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the smokies and bacon cook evenly from the get-go.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the oven is heating, take your bacon and cut it into thirds or halves. The right size should allow each piece to wrap snugly around a little smokie. This might vary depending on your sausages, so adjust as needed.
3. Wrap the Smokies:
Now, take each little smokie and wrap it with a piece of bacon. If you like, secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep everything in place. This step not only helps keep the bacon on but also makes for easy serving.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Next, place the bacon-wrapped smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, using that on top of the baking tray will help with airflow and give you extra crispy bacon!
5. Add Brown Sugar:
Generously sprinkle the brown sugar over each bacon-wrapped smokie. Use your fingers to press the sugar down lightly to make sure it sticks to the bacon.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the smokies halfway through for even cooking. You want that bacon to be beautifully crispy and the brown sugar to turn into a delicious glaze!
7. Finish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, you can sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. They make for a fantastic appetizer or snack at any gathering!
These Brown Sugar Bacon Little Smokies are sure to be a hit, combining crispy bacon with juicy smokies and a delightful sweet glaze. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While little smokies are traditional, you can use other types of cocktail sausages or even larger sausage links cut into bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the cooking time as needed if the sausage is thicker.
How Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon-wrapped smokies and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat, place the smokies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method will help retain the crispiness of the bacon.
Can I Add Spices for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle some black pepper, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper over the brown sugar before baking to add some extra flavor to your little smokies!
