BBQ Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Game day gets an upgrade with these crave-worthy bbq bacon wrapped smokies! Little smokies sausages wrapped in bacon and dripping with sweet and sticky barbecue sauce make for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer. These two-bite snacks are sure to be a touchdown at your next gathering. Read on for the simple step-by-step recipe.

Ingredients

To make 24 bacon wrapped smokies you will need:

• 1 lb little smokies (cocktail wieners)
• 12 slices bacon, sliced in half
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Toothpicks

Ingredient Tips

Use pre-cooked little smokies. Look for sugar-free bbq sauce to make it keto. Any flavor works!

Prep the Bacon

First, let's get the bacon ready:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
3. Cut each slice of bacon in half widthwise so you have 24 pieces.

Bacon Tips

The thin bacon slices wrap around the smokies easier. Regular sliced bacon works too.

Assemble and Wrap

Now assemble and wrap the smokies:

1. Pat smokies dry with a paper towel.
2. Wrap each smokie with a bacon strip, securing ends with a toothpick.
3. Place on prepared baking sheet.

Wrapping Tips

Make sure bacon is snug but be gentle to avoid tearing. Only pierce with toothpicks at the ends.

Make the BBQ Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 cup bbq sauce
• Brown sugar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chili powder

Set aside 3⁄4 cup for basting later.

Bake the Smokies

1. Brush bacon wrapped smokies lightly with some of the bbq sauce.
2. Bake 15 minutes, rotate pan, then bake 15 more minutes.
3. Remove pan from oven. Brush again with sauce. Broil 2-3 minutes to caramelize.

Baking Tips

Watch closely so bacon doesn't burn. Baste with sauce halfway through and broil just to finish.

How to Serve

These bbq bacon wrapped smokies are fantastic:

• As game day appetizers
• On a party tray with other finger foods
• Added to a charcuterie or cheese board
• For potlucks, tailgates or cookouts

Provide extra napkins as they can get messy but deliciously sticky!

Make it a Meal

Serve alongside classic game day sides like:

• Chips and dip
• Loaded nachos
• Wings
• Veggie trays
• Meatballs

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover smokies in the fridge up to 5 days. Reheat on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5 minutes.

You can also freeze uncooked smokies up to 2 months then bake frozen until hot and sizzling.

Substitutions

Tailor these to your taste by trying:

• Mini smoked sausages instead of little smokies
• Almond flour wrap "bacon"
• Sugar free apricot jam glaze
• Spicy brown mustard dip

Troubleshooting

• Dry smokies well so bacon adheres
• Wrap bacon snugly to prevent unraveling
• Use foil lined pan for easy cleanup
• Watch oven closely to avoid burning

Conclusion

These sticky sweet BBQ bacon wrapped smokies are sure to score big at your next game day gathering. Little smokies enveloped in crispy bacon and lacquered with a zesty homemade barbecue sauce create an explosion of flavors in every bite. Easy to pick up and pop in your mouth, they make the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. Keep warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish and watch them disappear! Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

FAQs

Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble smokies up to 24 hrs in advance then keep chilled until ready to bake.

What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes until hot.

How long will they keep in the refrigerator?

Leftover bbq bacon wrapped smokies will keep covered in the fridge 5-6 days.

Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon. The flavor may be a bit milder.

Is there a shortcut for the bbq sauce?

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought bbq sauce if short on time.