Description
Pig Shots are a delightful appetizer featuring smoked sausage wrapped in bacon and filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture. They’re perfect for gatherings and can be prepared in various ways, including smoking, baking, or air frying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 12 ounces smoked sausage or kielbasa
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons barbecue rub or your favorite seasoning
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon and Sausage:
- Cut the bacon slices in half to create shorter strips.
- Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch thick pieces.
- Assemble the ‘Shot Glasses’:
- Wrap a half-strip of bacon around each sausage slice, forming a cup or “shot glass.” Ensure the bottom of the sausage is flush with the edge of the bacon. Secure with a toothpick to hold the shape.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeño (if using), sour cream, and barbecue rub. Mix until well incorporated.
- Fill the Cups:
- Using a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with the corner snipped off, pipe the cream cheese mixture into each bacon-wrapped sausage cup, filling just below the top to prevent overflow during cooking.
- Add a Sweet Touch:
- Sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar on top of each filled cup to add a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Cooking Options:
- Smoking:
- Preheat your smoker to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the assembled pig shots on the smoker grate and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly.
- Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the pig shots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
- Air Frying:
- Preheat your air fryer to 340°F (170°C).
- Place the pig shots in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated through.
- Smoking:
- Serve:
- Remove the pig shots from your cooking device and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
- Serve warm, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a sweeter variation, consider drizzling a small amount of maple syrup over the pig shots during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as adding pineapple tidbits or using different types of cheese, to suit your taste preferences.