Easy Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a delicious and fun appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized sausages wrapped in crispy bacon bring together two classic favorites that everyone loves. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the juicy, flavorful little smokies inside, making every bite satisfying and tasty.
I love making these because they’re so simple to prepare but always a hit with friends and family. You just wrap little smokies with a piece of bacon, secure them with a toothpick, and bake or grill until the bacon is crispy. I find they’re a great snack to have ready before friends arrive, and they always disappear quickly, which is proof enough of how good they are.
My favorite way to serve them is with a little side of barbecue sauce or honey mustard for dipping. It adds a bit of sweetness or tang that works beautifully with the smoky bacon. Whether it’s for a game day, holiday party, or just a casual get-together, these little bites are always a crowd pleaser and super comforting to enjoy with good company.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the dish. If you can’t find little smokies, cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs work well too. Just pick the size that fits nicely inside the bacon.
Bacon: Regular cut bacon crisps up great without overpowering the smokies. You can use turkey bacon for a leaner option, but it might be less crispy. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it may not cook through at the same time.
Toothpicks: Essential to keep the bacon wrapped tightly around the smokies during cooking. Wooden or bamboo toothpicks work well. Soaking them briefly can prevent burning, but it’s usually not necessary in the oven.
How Do You Get the Bacon Crispy and the Smokies Perfectly Cooked?
Balancing crispy bacon and fully cooked smokies is the key here. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Wrap the bacon tightly but not too thickly; half a slice per smokie is ideal.
- Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to let heat circulate and help crisp bacon evenly.
- Bake at 400°F and check halfway, flipping the smokies gently to avoid burning on one side.
- Keep an eye in the last few minutes to get the bacon just right — crispy edges without burning.
- Rest a few minutes before serving; bacon firms up and bites are easier to handle.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I suggest using a rimmed sheet to catch any drips and keep your oven clean.
- Wire rack (optional) – It helps the bacon crisp up evenly by allowing hot air to circulate around the wrapped smokies.
- Toothpicks – These keep the bacon tightly wrapped during baking and make serving easier.
- Kitchen scissors – Handy for cutting bacon into halves quickly and cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Glaze with honey or maple syrup before baking for a sweet touch that balances the smoky flavor.
- Wrap the smokies with an extra sprinkle of brown sugar or a dash of chili powder for added sweetness or heat.
- Add a small piece of cheese or jalapeño inside before wrapping for a cheesy or spicy kick.
- Serve with a side of dipping sauce like barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch for more flavor options.
Easy Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (about 20-25) little smokies sausages
- 10 slices of bacon (regular size, not thick cut)
- Toothpicks (about 20-25)
- Optional for serving: barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes of baking. So, in under 40 minutes, you’ll have hot, crispy bacon-wrapped smokies ready to enjoy. Perfect for last-minute parties or quick appetizers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Bacon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. This will give you about 20 half slices, perfect to wrap around each smokie.
2. Wrap the Little Smokies
Take one little smokie and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Start at one end and spiral the bacon around until you reach the other end. Push a toothpick through the center to hold the bacon securely in place.
3. Arrange and Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or better yet, use a wire rack on top of a sheet pan to help air circulate and crisp the bacon evenly. Place all the bacon-wrapped smokies on the prepared pan.
4. Bake Until Crispy
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, carefully turn the smokies so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides. Keep an eye near the end to prevent burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Take the smokies out once the bacon is crispy and browned. Let them cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen little smokies, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before wrapping with bacon to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and wrap the smokies in advance, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for the best crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bacon wrapped smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispiness.
Are There Any Good Alternatives to Bacon?
If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon works well, though it might not get as crispy. You can also try prosciutto for a different flavor twist.