Get ready for a fun snack with Pig Shots! These tasty bites are made with sausage, wrapped in bacon, and filled with cheese and spices. They’re perfect for sharing (or not!).
I’ve made these for game days, and they’re always a hit! Just pop them in the oven, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness—they’re so good you might not want to share!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is the way to go for these Pig Shots. It provides a nice crispy texture and holds everything together. If you’re looking for a slightly healthier option, you could use turkey bacon, but it won’t have the same richness.
Smoked Sausage: Any smoked sausage will work great! I like to use kielbasa or andouille for their bold flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, turkey sausage is a good substitute too.
Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese for easier mixing. If you’re dairy-free, you can try using a plant-based cream cheese. For a lighter version, low-fat cream cheese will do just fine!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds extra flavor, but feel free to swap it for another cheese like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch. If you don’t have them, chives or finely minced regular onions can substitute, but adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Bacon on My Pig Shots?
The secret to crispy bacon lies in the cooking method. Follow these steps to achieve that perfect crunch you want:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven sets the stage for good cooking.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This not only makes cleanup easier but also helps the bacon crisp up by allowing fat to drain away.
- Keep an eye on them while baking! Cook for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is golden and the cheese is bubbling. If they need a bit more time, check every 5 minutes to avoid burning.
- Allow them to cool slightly after baking. This lets the bacon firm up a bit more before serving.
How to Make Oven-Baked Pig Shots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bacon Wrapped Sausage:
- 1 lb bacon (thick-cut)
- 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
For Assembly:
- Toothpicks (for holding everything together)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you can enjoy these tasty Pig Shots in about 45 minutes. Perfect for a fun appetizer or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make clean-up easier later on. It’s little things like this that help!
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Set this delicious mixture aside for later!
3. Assemble the Bacon-Wrapped Sausages:
Next, cut each slice of bacon in half. Take one half of bacon and wrap it around a sausage round, securing it with a toothpick. Place each wrapped sausage upright on your lined baking sheet. Aim for them to stand tall and proud!
4. Fill with Cream Cheese:
Using a spoon, take that creamy filling you set aside and generously fill each bacon-wrapped sausage. Don’t be shy—make it nice and full! This will make them super tasty once they’re baked.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want the bacon to be crispy and the cheese filling to be bubbly and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the sheet from the oven and let the Pig Shots cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
These oven-baked Pig Shots are best served warm, so dig in and enjoy this delightful treat! They make for a great appetizer or snack at any gathering. Yum!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you’re looking for a healthier option! Just be aware that turkey bacon tends to be less fatty, so it might not get as crispy. You can increase the baking time slightly if needed to achieve your desired crunchiness.
How Can I Adjust the Cheese Mixture?
If you’re not a fan of sharp cheddar, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. You could also add in some crumbled blue cheese for a unique twist!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help maintain their texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make them soggy.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Pig Shots and store them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before baking. Just make sure to cover them well with plastic wrap. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they heat through properly.
