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Best Bacon-Wrapped Brown Sugar Smokies: Easy Game Day Appetizer

bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies - featured image

These bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies are the ultimate game day appetizer. Little smoked sausages are wrapped in bacon, coated in brown sugar, and baked until the bacon is crispy and the sugar caramelizes into a sticky, sweet glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (14-ounce) package little smoked sausages (like Lit’l Smokies)
  • 1 pound thinly sliced bacon
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
  2. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  3. Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise.
  4. Wrap each piece of bacon around one little smoked sausage, overlapping slightly. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Secure each wrapped smokie with a toothpick, inserting through the bacon and into the sausage.
  6. Pour the brown sugar into a small bowl. Roll each wrapped smokie in the brown sugar, pressing gently to coat evenly. Place back on the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is bubbly and caramelized. Start checking at 25 minutes.
  8. Let the smokies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter using a spatula. Serve hot.

Notes

Use thin-cut bacon for best results. Do not skip the toothpick. Space the smokies out on the baking sheet to ensure even caramelization. For a make-ahead option, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then add 5-10 minutes to baking time. Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer, not the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped smokies, brown sugar smokies, game day appetizer, little smokies, bacon appetizer, sweet and salty