Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic crowd-pleaser that mix smoky, juicy cocktail sausages with crispy, salty bacon. These bite-sized treats are perfect appetizers or party snacks, combining a little…

By Alina • January 4, 2026 • Reading time: 5 min

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I love making these because they’re so easy to prepare — just wrap the little smokies in bacon, secure them with a toothpick, and pop them in the oven. They always come out perfectly crispy on the outside, and the smoky sausage inside stays nice and tender. Plus, they’re a guaranteed hit whenever I bring them to gatherings or family get-togethers.

My favorite way to serve them is with a side of barbecue sauce or mustard for dipping. It adds that extra kick and makes these little bites even more irresistible. Whether it’s game day or a simple weekend snack, these bacon wrapped smokies always bring people together and make everyone smile.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star here. They’re already cooked and have a smoky flavor. If you can’t find them, small breakfast sausages or cocktail sausages work well too.

Bacon: I prefer regular-cut bacon because it crisps nicely without overpowering the smokies. Thick-cut works but may need more cooking time. For a healthier twist, try turkey bacon, but it won’t be as crispy.

Barbecue Sauce or Honey Mustard: These add a sweet and tangy touch if you dip or glaze the smokies. If you want something milder, plain ketchup or a spicy mustard are tasty options.

How Do You Get the Bacon Crispy Without Burning the Smokies?

The main challenge is cooking the bacon fully without drying out or burning the little smokies inside. Here’s how I do it:

Wrap the bacon tightly so it stays close to the smokie, which helps cook everything evenly.
Use a moderate oven temperature (375°F). Too high can burn the bacon before the smokies warm through.
Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch drippings and prevent sticking, making cleanup easy.
Turn halfway through cooking to crisp all sides evenly.
If adding sauce, brush it on near the end to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce.

Following these tips ensures perfectly crispy bacon wrapped little smokies every time!

Equipment You’ll Need

Baking sheet – essential for cooking all the smokies at once and catching drippings for easy cleanup.
Aluminum foil or parchment paper – helps prevent sticking and makes cleaning the baking sheet a breeze.
Toothpicks – these hold the bacon securely around the little smokies while they bake.
Tongs – handy for turning the smokies halfway through baking without breaking the bacon wrap.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Try wrapping smokies with peppered bacon for an extra spicy kick.
Add a small slice of cheese inside before wrapping for melty gooeyness.
Brush with a mix of barbecue sauce and honey during baking for a sweet glaze.
Wrap jalapeño slices with the smokies for a smoky, spicy bite that’s great for heat lovers.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 pound little smokies (cocktail sausages)
12 slices bacon (regular or thick cut), cut into thirds
Toothpicks, for securing
Optional: ½ cup barbecue sauce or honey mustard for dipping

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. So, plan for roughly 35 to 40 minutes total from start to finish, making it a quick and easy appetizer to get on the table.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to catch drippings and make cleanup simple.

2. Wrap the Little Smokies

Cut each bacon slice into thirds. Take one little smokie at a time and tightly wrap a piece of bacon around it. Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place so it won’t unravel while baking.

3. Arrange and Bake

Place the bacon-wrapped smokies on the baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.

4. Add Optional Glaze and Serve

If you like, brush your favorite barbecue sauce over the smokies in the last 5 minutes of baking to add a tasty glaze. When done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, paired with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard.

Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the little smokies completely before wrapping them with bacon to ensure even cooking.

Can I Make Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare and wrap them ahead, then refrigerate on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for best results.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.

Can I Use Different Meats to Wrap the Smokies?

Yes! You can experiment with turkey bacon, pancetta, or prosciutto, but keep in mind the cooking time and crispiness may vary slightly.