Smoked Pig Shots Recipe 🍖

Introduction:

Smoked Pig Shots are a delicious and indulgent appetizer that brings together the savory flavors of smoked sausage and crispy bacon, with a rich, cheesy filling that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or just a fun snack, these bite-sized morsels are smoked to perfection, offering a unique twist on traditional bacon-wrapped snacks. The addition of jalapeños adds a spicy kick, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb bacon, sliced in half (to fit around the sausage slices)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional for extra heat)
• 2 tbsp barbecue rub (for extra flavor)
• Toothpicks (to secure the bacon and sausage)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage and Bacon:

   Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch pieces. Each piece should be thick enough to support a bacon wrap. Cut the bacon slices in half so they’re the right size to wrap around the sausage pieces.

2. Wrap the Sausage:

   Take one piece of sausage and wrap it with half a slice of bacon, forming a small cup. Secure it with a toothpick. Repeat for all the sausage pieces.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:

   In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

4. Fill the Bacon Cups:

   Spoon the cheesy cream cheese mixture into each bacon-wrapped sausage cup, filling them generously.

5. Season and Smoke:

   Sprinkle each filled cup with a little barbecue rub to enhance the smoky flavor. Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F (120°C). Place the pig shots on the grill or in the smoker and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly.

6. Serve:

   Once the bacon is crispy and the filling is cooked through, remove the toothpicks and serve the pig shots warm.

Methods:

• Smoking/Grilling: Smoking these pig shots over low and slow heat ensures that the bacon becomes crispy while the cheesy filling stays creamy and melty. It also imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the savory sausage.
• Toothpicks: The toothpicks help secure the bacon and sausage, ensuring the pig shots stay intact during cooking.

History:

The origin of pig shots is relatively modern, emerging from the creative minds of backyard BBQ enthusiasts who wanted to make the most of traditional smoked meats. The combination of sausage, bacon, and cheese has been a favorite in Southern and barbecue cultures for years. These bite-sized treats are often referred to as “pig shots” because of their bacon-wrapped shape, mimicking the appearance of a shot glass.

While the dish doesn’t have a deep historical lineage, it has quickly gained popularity in BBQ competitions and gatherings, earning its place in the realm of decadent comfort food.

Benefits:

• Protein-Rich: The smoked sausage and bacon offer a good amount of protein, making this dish satisfying for meat lovers.
• Cheesy Delight: Cream cheese and cheddar provide a creamy, rich texture that pairs well with the crispy bacon.
• Customizable: The addition of jalapeños allows for an optional spicy kick, which can be adjusted or omitted based on personal preference.

Formation:

This recipe forms an irresistible appetizer by combining the crunchy texture of bacon with the savory flavors of sausage and creamy, cheesy filling. The result is a perfect balance of smokiness, richness, and heat, making it a crowd-pleasing bite-sized treat. The method of wrapping and filling ensures that each piece is bursting with flavor, creating an unforgettable snack.

Conclusion:

Smoked Pig Shots are a fun and indulgent appetizer that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With their perfect combination of crispy bacon, savory sausage, and creamy cheese, these pig shots make an ideal addition to any barbecue or casual gathering. Whether you’re looking for something unique for game day or simply craving a decadent snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Lovers of the Recipe:

This dish is for lovers of smoky flavors, cheese enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys rich, savory snacks. If you’re a fan of bacon-wrapped foods or creamy dips, these smoked pig shots will quickly become one of your favorite go-to appetizers.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Protein: 15-18g
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 3-5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 500-700mg

Conclusion:

Smoked Pig Shots offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re a fan of smoked meats or creamy appetizers, these tasty bites will quickly become a favorite at your gatherings. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to leave everyone craving more. So fire up the smoker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this indulgent treat!