Name: Pig Shots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484315H38M58S
Total time: PT-484315H38M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Bacon strips (preferably thick-cut): 8-10 strips (cut in half for wrapping); Breakfast sausage: 1 lb (about 450g); Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz (1 block); Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup; Green onions (finely chopped): 2-3 stalks; Jalapeños (optional for a spicy kick): 1-2, finely chopped (optional); BBQ rub (your favorite seasoning mix): 1-2 tbsp (to sprinkle on top, optional); Toothpicks: 12-16 (depending on the number of servings)

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If you’re looking for a bold, savory, and absolutely delicious appetizer to serve at your next BBQ or party, look no further than Pig Shots! These little bites of heaven are made with juicy sausage, wrapped in bacon, and topped with a flavorful cream cheese filling that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and are sure to be the star of your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Pig Shots are everything you want in an appetizer and more. The smoky flavor of bacon, the savory goodness of sausage, and the creamy filling create a perfect bite-sized treat that’s impossible to resist. Not only are they a huge hit at parties, but they’re also easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and toppings. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking them on the smoker, these tasty little shots are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and savory!

Ingredients

Here’s a quick list of the ingredients you’ll need for these delicious Pig Shots. You’ll find the full list below for reference.

Bacon strips (preferably thick-cut)
Breakfast sausage (or your preferred sausage)
Cream cheese (softened)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Green onions (finely chopped)
Jalapeños (optional for a spicy kick)
BBQ rub (your favorite seasoning mix)
Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)

These simple ingredients combine for a flavor explosion that everyone will love!

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Start by preheating your smoker or grill to 375°F (190°C), or heat your oven to the same temperature if you’re baking. While it’s heating up, take your bacon strips and cut them in half so they’re easier to wrap around the sausage.

Step 2: Make the Sausage Base

Next, take your breakfast sausage (or any sausage of your choice) and mold it into small rings. Each ring should be about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can use your hands or a small cookie cutter to shape them. Place the sausage rings on a tray or plate and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and finely chopped jalapeños (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture will give your Pig Shots that creamy, cheesy center that melts beautifully when cooked.

Step 4: Assemble the Pig Shots

Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each sausage ring. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to hold it in place. Then, fill the center of each bacon-wrapped sausage with the cream cheese mixture, pressing it down gently to fit. If you like, you can sprinkle a little BBQ rub or your favorite seasoning on top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Pig Shots

Place the prepared Pig Shots on the smoker, grill, or in the oven. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausage is fully cooked. If you’re using a smoker, the wood chips will add an extra smoky flavor that takes these shots to the next level.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the bacon is perfectly crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the Pig Shots from the heat. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These little bites are best served warm, so they maintain that creamy, cheesy goodness inside.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Bacon choice: Thick-cut bacon works best for these Pig Shots. It provides enough structure to hold the sausage and cheese without becoming too crispy and falling apart.
Cream cheese tip: If you want an extra creamy filling, use full-fat cream cheese. You can also add a little bit of sour cream for a tangy twist.
Make them ahead: You can prep these Pig Shots the day before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them into your smoker or oven, and you’ll have an easy appetizer ready in no time.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Meat alternatives: If you’re not a fan of breakfast sausage, you can substitute it with cooked ground beef, turkey, or even pulled pork for a different flavor.
Cheese variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture, or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pig Shots are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, coleslaw, or some crispy potato wedges for a complete meal. For drinks, a cold beer or iced tea would complement the smoky, savory flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store any leftover Pig Shots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the Pig Shots on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through. You can also microwave them, but the bacon won’t be as crispy.

4 FAQs

Can I make Pig Shots without a smoker?
Absolutely! While a smoker adds a nice smoky flavor, you can make Pig Shots in the oven or on a grill. Just bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausage is fully cooked.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage for these?
It’s best to use uncooked sausage so that it cooks properly with the bacon. However, if you want to use pre-cooked sausage, just make sure to heat it through before adding the filling and bacon.

How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
Keep an eye on your Pig Shots as they cook, especially if you’re using a high heat method like grilling or smoking. If you notice the bacon cooking too quickly, you can lower the temperature or cover the shots loosely with foil to prevent overcooking.

Can I freeze Pig Shots?
Yes, you can freeze them! After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until hot.

Conclusion

Pig Shots are an epic appetizer that’s sure to wow your guests every time. With their crispy bacon, savory sausage, and creamy, cheesy filling, they make the perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion. They’re easy to make, customizable to your taste, and incredibly delicious. Give them a try and watch how fast they disappear!

Pig Shots

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 12–16 Pig Shots (Serves 4-6) 1x
Category: Appetizer, Snack, Party Food
Method: Grilling, Smoker, Baking
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Pig Shots are savory, smoky, and packed with flavor. Made from sausage wrapped in bacon and topped with a creamy cheese mixture, these bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties, BBQs, or any gathering. They’re sure to be a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Bacon strips (preferably thick-cut): 8-10 strips (cut in half for wrapping)
Breakfast sausage: 1 lb (about 450g)
Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz (1 block)
Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup
Green onions (finely chopped): 2-3 stalks
Jalapeños (optional for a spicy kick): 1-2, finely chopped (optional)
BBQ rub (your favorite seasoning mix): 1-2 tbsp (to sprinkle on top, optional)
Toothpicks: 12-16 (depending on the number of servings)

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Instructions

Preheat smoker, grill, or oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut bacon strips in half for easier wrapping.
Shape the breakfast sausage into small rings, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and optional jalapeños until smooth.
Wrap bacon around each sausage ring, securing with toothpicks. Fill the center of each with the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle with BBQ rub for extra flavor.
Cook in the smoker, grill, or oven for 25-30 minutes, until bacon is crispy and sausage is fully cooked.
Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.