Description
Succulent pig shots deliver a mouthwatering appetizer explosion of bacon, cream cheese, and savory sausage. Packed with robust flavors and simple preparation, these irresistible bites will make you the star of any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) smoked sausage, cut into ½-inch thick slices
- 1 pound (454 grams) thick-cut bacon, cut in half
Cheese and Dairy Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (56 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Garnish Ingredients:
- ¼ cup (15 grams) green onions, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Prepare the initial setup by warming the oven to a precise 350F (175C), creating the ideal environment for transforming raw ingredients into crispy, golden appetizers.
- Craft a flavor-packed mixture by thoroughly blending breakfast sausage with cream cheese, introducing shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until the ingredients form a harmonious, well-integrated filling.
- Transform bacon slices into delicate cups by carefully wrapping them around the edges of a muffin tin, securing each with a toothpick to create sturdy vessels that will hold the savory filling.
- Generously fill each bacon cup with the prepared sausage mixture, ensuring an even distribution that allows for maximum flavor while preventing overflow during the cooking process.
- Optional: Enhance the appetizer’s complexity by adding a slice of jalapeño atop each pig shot, introducing a subtle heat that complements the rich, meaty base.
- Slide the prepared pan into the preheated oven, allowing the pig shots to bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon achieves a perfectly crisp exterior and the sausage mixture reaches full, safe cooking temperature.
- For an extra layer of crispiness, activate the broiler for a brief 2-3 minute finale, creating a golden-brown finish that adds textural excitement to the appetizer.
- Remove from the oven and let the pig shots rest momentarily, allowing the intense heat to settle and the flavors to stabilize before serving.
- Present the pig shots with accompanying dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue, providing guests with an opportunity to customize their culinary experience.
Notes
- Bacon Selection: Choose thick-cut bacon to create sturdy cups that hold the sausage mixture without falling apart during baking.
- Fat Reduction: Partially cook bacon before wrapping to remove excess grease and ensure a crispier texture without making the dish too oily.
- Cheese Flexibility: Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or smoked gouda to add unique flavor profiles to the sausage mixture.
- Spice Customization: Adjust heat levels by adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or switching to spicy breakfast sausage for those who enjoy extra kick.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare pig shots in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving to save time during gatherings or game day parties.
- Dietary Adaptations: Use turkey bacon and turkey sausage for a lighter version, or create vegetarian alternatives with plant-based sausage and bacon substitutes.
- Cooking Surface: Use a silicone muffin pan or line metal pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 351
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 859 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 66 mg