Pig Shots are little bites of crispy, cheesy, and meaty goodness that are sure to make any snack time a hit. These tasty morsels usually involve sausage wrapped in crescent roll dough, baked until golden and perfect for popping in your mouth. The combination of warm, juicy sausage with a flaky crust and a bit of melted cheese makes them wonderfully satisfying.
I love making Pig Shots for parties or just a quick treat when I want something filling but easy to eat. They come together really fast, which is awesome when friends drop by unexpectedly. My favorite trick is to add a little bit of mustard or ketchup on the side for dipping—it just makes them even better!
Serving Pig Shots warm right out of the oven is the best way to enjoy them. I like to line them up on a platter so everyone can grab a few and keep coming back for more. They remind me of those fun finger foods you find at casual get-togethers, the kind that get everyone smiling and chatting while snacking away.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Sausages: These small sausages are the heart of Pig Shots. I like smoky mini sausages for extra flavor. If you can’t find them, little breakfast sausages or chopped regular sausages work well.
Bacon: Bacon wraps the sausage with crispiness and smoky taste. Use regular or thick-cut bacon. Turkey bacon is a leaner option but won’t be quite as crispy.
Brown Sugar & BBQ Sauce: They create a sweet glaze. You can swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup, and BBQ sauce can be homemade or your store favorite.
Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of savory depth. Fresh garlic can be used but be careful as it burns faster.
How Do I Get Crispy, Caramelized Bacon on Pig Shots?
Making bacon crispy without burning it is key for great Pig Shots. Here’s what works best for me:
- Use a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet so air circulates around the bacon-wrapped sausages.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake slowly—this cooks bacon evenly and allows fat to render properly.
- Wrap the sausage tightly but don’t overlap bacon too much; this helps it crisp better.
- Brush with the sweet BBQ glaze before and halfway through baking to build a sticky, caramelized coating.
Let them cool a few minutes after baking, so the bacon firms up and the glaze sets. This gives you those perfect bites full of flavor and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – I prefer this setup so the bacon crisps all around and excess fat drips away.
- Toothpicks – these keep the bacon secure on the sausages while baking.
- Small bowl – for mixing the barbecue sauce and brown sugar glaze.
- Pastry brush – makes it easy to coat the bacon with the glaze during baking.
- Kitchen tongs – helpful for turning or removing the hot bacon-wrapped sausages.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy sausages or add a splash of hot sauce to the barbecue glaze for a kick.
- Sprinkle cracked black pepper or smoked paprika on the bacon before baking for extra flavor.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
- Swap the barbecue sauce for honey mustard or a spicy chipotle sauce to change the flavor profile.
How to Make Pig Shots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 cocktail sausages (such as cocktail smokies or mini sausages)
- 12 strips of bacon (cut in half)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: toothpicks for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25–30 minutes to bake, so plan for roughly 40 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy game-day or party snack that you can whip up anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Sausages:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. This setup helps the bacon cook evenly and get crispy. Pat the cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel so the bacon sticks nicely.
2. Wrap Sausages With Bacon:
Wrap each cocktail sausage with half a strip of bacon. If needed, use a toothpick to keep the bacon wrapped tightly around the sausage.
3. Mix and Brush the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and garlic powder until smooth. Brush each bacon-wrapped sausage with this tasty glaze generously.
4. Bake to Crispy Perfection:
Arrange the wrapped sausages on the wire rack so they don’t touch. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the bacon is crispy and caramelized, and the sausages are hot inside. Halfway through baking, brush on more glaze to build a sticky, delicious coating.
5. Finish and Serve:
Let your Pig Shots cool for a few minutes after baking, then sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy these smoky, sweet, savory bites with friends or family!
Can I Use Frozen Sausages for Pig Shots?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before assembling. Pat them dry well to help the bacon stick and cook evenly.
Can I Prepare Pig Shots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the sausages in bacon and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just brush with the glaze and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover Pig Shots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces to Serve With Pig Shots?
Try classic options like mustard, ranch dressing, or extra barbecue sauce. Even a spicy sriracha mayo can add a tasty kick!