Are you looking for an easy and incredibly delicious appetizer or snack that's guaranteed to impress your guests? Then look no further! These Little Smokies wrapped in bacon with a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze are the perfect solution for your next gathering. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a party. It's one of those delicious dishes that's surprisingly easy to make, and the combination of smoky, salty, and sweet flavors is simply irresistible. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Little Smokies sausages
- 1 package (12 ounces) bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Wrap the Little Smokies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take one piece of bacon and wrap it around a single Little Smokie sausage. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Repeat this process until all the Little Smokies are wrapped.
Step 3: Bake and Glaze
Place the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the glaze generously over the Little Smokies. This helps create a beautiful caramelized finish and adds extra flavor.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the Little Smokies cool slightly before serving. Remove the toothpicks carefully before enjoying these delectable treats. They are perfect served warm as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun addition to your next game day spread.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Little Smokies:
- Use high-quality bacon: The flavor of the bacon significantly impacts the overall taste, so opt for a good quality bacon with a nice smoky flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure there's enough space between the Little Smokies for even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Adjust the baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your Little Smokies and adjust the baking time as needed to achieve perfectly cooked bacon.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the bacon-wrapped Little Smokies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights or parties.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy twist.
- Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the glaze for an interesting sweet and savory combination.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the Little Smokies during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy topping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate for one bacon-wrapped Little Smokie is around 100-120 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, we recommend using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient brands.
This simple recipe for Little Smokies wrapped in bacon with a brown sugar glaze is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!