Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my favorite guilty pleasures that makes any gathering a blast—Smoked Pig Shots! Think of them as fancy little bites that take comfort food to a whole new level. There’s something irresistibly fun about food on a stick, and these will definitely be a conversation starter at your next barbecue or game day gathering. I remember the first time I made them, my friends couldn’t get enough; we almost had a pig shot eating contest!
The blend of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavors with each bite. Not to mention, the smokiness from the smoker wraps everything together. Seriously, these pig shots are the life of the party, and you will love making them as much as you enjoy eating them!
What’s in Smoked Pig Shots?
Chicken Sausage or Smoked Sausage: The foundation of your pig shots! I usually lean towards smoked sausage for that extra flavor boost, but you can use chicken sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Bacon: We all know bacon makes everything better. You’ll wrap each sausage with it to add a crispy and savory element to your bites. Get the good thick cut for maximum crunch!
Cream Cheese: This is where the magic happens! Creamy, smooth, and rich—that’s how I like my dip! It fills the center of the pig shots and pairs perfectly with everything else.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A must for cheesy goodness. I like sharp cheddar for a little kick, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
BBQ Rub or Seasoning of Choice: This is your chance to be adventurous! Stick with your favorite store-bought rub or whip up a simple mix of spices. I often go for a sweet and smoky blend.
BBQ Sauce (optional): Brush this on during the last minutes of cooking for a sticky, sweet finish. It adds another layer of flavor if you’re feeling indulgent!
Is Smoked Pig Shots Good for You?
Let’s be honest, pig shots are not exactly a health food, but in moderation, they can definitely be part of a delicious and balanced meal.
Chicken Sausage: Rich in protein and lower in fat than traditional pork sausage, it’s a great way to indulge without straying too far from health goals.
Bacon: While it’s not the healthiest option, choosing a high-quality bacon with no added sugars can make a difference. I always try to moderate my intake.
Cream Cheese: It’s not the lightest cheese on the block, but it does add a richness that complements the rest of the ingredients beautifully. Look for reduced-fat versions if you’re watching calories.
Shredded Cheese: Cheese is great in moderation! It provides calcium and protein, but again, moderation is key.
Overall, you might want to save these delectable bites for special occasions, and trust me, they will be worth the wait!
Ingredients List
– Chicken sausage or smoked sausage (about 1 pound)
– Bacon (about 1 pound)
– Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
– Shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)
– BBQ rub or seasoning of choice (to taste)
– BBQ sauce (optional, for glaze)
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how much they love pig shots—think of it as a snack that keeps on giving!
How to Make Smoked Pig Shots?
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking is key!
2. Slice the sausage into thick coins, about 1 inch thick.
3. Take a slice of bacon and wrap each sausage coin snugly, and secure it with a toothpick so it doesn’t go rogue.
4. Fill the center of each bacon-wrapped sausage with a generous spoonful of cream cheese. Don’t skimp on this part—it’s heavenly!
5. Top the cream cheese mound with a sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese. Like a mini cheesy blanket!
6. Sprinkle some BBQ rub on top of all that goodness. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor comes alive!
7. Place your pig shots in the smoker and let them cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the bacon is smoky and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. For the final touch, brush BBQ sauce over the top in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra sticky finish if you’re using it.
Flavorful Tips for Your Pig Shots!
– Experiment with different cheese fillings! Sometimes, I like to add some jalapeños for a spicy kick or some herbs for freshness.
– If you don’t have a smoker, these can also be made on the grill or even in the oven. Just keep an eye on them.
– Serve these poppable treats hot with lots of napkins nearby—they get a bit messy, but that’s part of the fun!
– Pair with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or even some pickles for a delightful contrast.
I can’t encourage you enough to whip these up for your next gathering (or just for yourself on a cozy night in)! Trust me, after one taste, your friends will be asking for the recipe—be prepared to share, though! Let’s get smoking and enjoy those tasty bites!
