Smoked Pig Shots

Smoked Pig Shots are the ultimate appetizer for BBQ parties or any gathering. These savory bites combine smoked sausage, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy filling with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a smoky, indulgent snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors in a single bite.
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for parties, game days, or BBQ get-togethers.
• Customizable with different fillings or levels of spice.
• A crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb bacon, sliced in half
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp barbecue rub

Directions

1. Prepare the Pig Shots

• Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch pieces.
• Wrap each piece of sausage with a half-slice of bacon, forming a small cup. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.

2. Make the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños (if using).
• Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each bacon cup, filling to the top.

3. Season

• Sprinkle the assembled pig shots generously with barbecue rub for added flavor.

4. Smoke or Grill

• Preheat your smoker or grill to 250°F (120°C).
• Place the pig shots on the smoker or grill and cook for 1–1.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbling.

5. Serve

• Remove the pig shots from the smoker or grill and allow them to cool slightly.
• Serve warm and enjoy the smoky, cheesy goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

• Add Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the pig shots before smoking for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Extra Spice: Use spicy sausage and jalapeños for a bolder flavor profile.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique taste.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
• Herby Flavor: Mix chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the cheese filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm pig shots in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as the bacon may become rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I make pig shots without a smoker?

Yes, you can use an oven set to 250°F, although you won’t get the smoky flavor. Adding a small amount of liquid smoke to the filling can mimic the taste.

2. Can I prepare pig shots in advance?

Yes, assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving.

3. What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa work wonderfully, but you can also use andouille or chorizo for different flavors.

4. Can I freeze uncooked pig shots?

Yes, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before smoking or grilling.

5. Can I make them spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese filling for extra heat.

6. What barbecue rub works best?

Choose a rub with a balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors to complement the ingredients.

7. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, but turkey bacon is less fatty and may not crisp up as much.

8. What sides pair well with pig shots?

Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete BBQ spread.

9. Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to crisp the bacon.

10. How do I keep the filling from spilling out?

Be sure the bacon is wrapped snugly around the sausage and secured with a toothpick. Avoid overfilling.

Conclusion

Smoked Pig Shots are a flavor-packed appetizer that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With their smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and creamy filling, these bite-sized treats are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or a game day party, these pig shots are sure to steal the show!

Smoked Pig Shots

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• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American BBQ

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Description

Impress your guests with Smoked Pig Shots—savory smoked sausage wrapped in crispy bacon and filled with a cheesy, creamy jalapeño mixture. Perfect for BBQ parties, tailgates, or any occasion!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb bacon, sliced in half
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional)
• 2 tbsp barbecue rub

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pig Shots:
   • Wrap each sausage slice with a piece of bacon to form a cup. Secure with a toothpick.
2. Mix the Filling:
   • Combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and diced jalapeños in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. Fill the Cups:
   • Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the bacon cups.
4. Season and Smoke:
   • Sprinkle barbecue rub over the filled cups. Place them on a smoker or grill preheated to 250°F (120°C). Smoke for 1–1.5 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
5. Serve:
   • Remove from the smoker and serve warm for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

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Notes

• Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of smoking for extra flavor.
• Use mild or spicy jalapeños depending on your heat preference.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.