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Best Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Smokies Recipe

bacon-wrapped smokies - featured image

These sweet and spicy bacon-wrapped smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring a perfect balance of salty bacon, juicy sausage, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of heat. Quick and easy to make with just four ingredients, they disappear faster than anything else on the table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14 oz) little smokies
  • 1 pound thin-cut bacon
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top if using.
  2. Cut each slice of bacon into thirds (about 2-3 inches long).
  3. In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar and cayenne pepper. Stir until evenly distributed.
  4. Wrap one piece of bacon around each little smokie and secure with a toothpick. Repeat until all smokies are wrapped.
  5. Roll each bacon-wrapped smokie in the brown sugar mixture, pressing gently so the sugar adheres. Coat all sides.
  6. Place the coated smokies on the wire rack (or directly on the lined baking sheet) with the toothpick pointing up. Leave space between each one.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark. For extra crispy bacon, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Let the smokies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving warm with toothpicks still in.

Notes

Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning. For best results, use a wire rack to allow even crisping. Watch the sugar carefully in the last 5-10 minutes to prevent burning. Can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped smokies, sweet and spicy, appetizer, party food, game day snack, little smokies, bacon wrapped sausages