Smoked Pig Shots

Smoked Pig Shots are a must-try appetizer that combines the smoky, savory goodness of sausage, bacon, and barbecue sauce with a creamy, cheesy filling. Perfect for BBQ gatherings, game day, or family events, these bite-sized treats deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of crispy bacon, tender sausage, and a rich cream cheese filling makes this recipe a standout. Plus, the smoky flavor from the grill elevates the dish to new heights. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage (cut into ¾-inch chunks)
• 12 ounces thick-cut maple bacon
• 4 ounces softened cream cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 jalapeño (stem, seeds removed, diced)
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• ½ teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• ⅛ cup honey
• 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
• Jalapeño slices

Directions

1. Preheat the Smoker
Set your smoker to 375°F to ensure even cooking and the perfect smoky flavor.

2. Prepare the BBQ Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Set this sweet and tangy glaze aside for later.

3. Assemble the Pig Shots
Cut the bacon strips in half. Wrap each piece of smoked sausage with a half-strip of bacon, creating a cup shape. Secure the bacon with toothpicks to hold it in place.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add sour cream, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and Slap Ya Mama seasoning. Stir until well combined.

5. Fill the Pig Shots
Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a quart-sized baggie. Cut a small corner off the bag and pipe the filling into each bacon-wrapped sausage. Top with a slice of jalapeño for an extra kick.

6. Brush with BBQ Glaze
Generously brush each pig shot with the prepared honey barbecue mixture, ensuring they’re coated for a flavorful caramelized finish.

7. Smoke to Perfection
Place the pig shots directly on the smoker grates and cook for 60–75 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the pig shots from the smoker, let them cool slightly, and serve these savory bites while they’re warm and delicious.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Best Served Warm: Smoked Pig Shots are at their tastiest when served fresh off the smoker. The crispy bacon, creamy filling, and smoky sausage are most flavorful when warm.
• Garnish for Presentation: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving to enhance both the flavor and presentation.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or extra barbecue sauce for added flavor. Pair them with other BBQ favorites such as coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn.
• Plating Idea: Arrange the pig shots on a platter lined with lettuce or parchment paper for an attractive display.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Place any leftover pig shots in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat, place the pig shots in a preheated oven at 350°F or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the bacon soggy.
• Freezing for Later: While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked pig shots. Allow them to cool completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Follow these tips to ensure your Smoked Pig Shots remain delicious, whether serving fresh or enjoying as leftovers!

Variations

• Add extra heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cream cheese filling. For an even spicier kick, use spicy sausage or a hot pepper cheese instead of sharp cheddar.

2. Sweet and Savory

• Swap the barbecue sauce with a sweet chili sauce or a maple syrup glaze for a sweeter flavor profile. The contrast of sweet and savory will elevate the dish!
• Add a sprinkle of brown sugar on top of the cream cheese mixture before smoking for an extra layer of sweetness.

3. Bacon-Wrapped Variety

• For an even crispier bacon experience, double-wrap the sausage with two strips of bacon for an added crunch.
• Use a combination of different types of bacon, like applewood smoked bacon or peppered bacon, for a more complex flavor.

4. Loaded Pig Shots

• Mix in diced cooked bacon or crumbled sausage into the cream cheese filling to create a meat lover’s dream.
• Add a handful of sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a loaded version of the pig shots with added savory flavors.

5. Cheese Lovers

• Swap the cheddar cheese for a blend of different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack, for a gooier and more melty filling.
• Top each pig shot with extra cheese halfway through smoking for a cheesy crust.

6. Keto-Friendly Pig Shots

• Replace the barbecue sauce with a low-carb alternative or skip the glaze entirely. You can also use a sugar-free honey substitute to keep it keto-friendly.
• Serve the pig shots with a side of avocado or a fresh cucumber salad to complete the low-carb meal.

7. BBQ Pulled Pork Pig Shots

• Add a spoonful of pulled pork on top of the sausage before wrapping with bacon. Once smoked, drizzle with a tangy barbecue sauce for a BBQ feast in a bite-sized form.

8. Veggie Pig Shots

• Make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using a veggie-based filling, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and onions mixed with cream cheese.
• Swap the sausage for a veggie sausage or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.

9. Mediterranean-Inspired

• Swap the jalapeños for sun-dried tomatoes and add a touch of oregano or basil to the cream cheese filling for a Mediterranean flavor.
• Use a sharp feta cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist and garnish with Kalamata olives for an authentic touch.

10. Smoky Buffalo Pig Shots

• Mix buffalo sauce into the cream cheese filling for a spicy and tangy twist on the classic pig shots. You can also add blue cheese crumbles for a true buffalo flavor.

These variations will keep your Smoked Pig Shots fresh and exciting, offering a wide range of flavors to please any crowd! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and enjoy these smoky, savory treats in new ways.

FAQs

1. Can I make Smoked Pig Shots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pig shots in advance by assembling them up to the point of smoking. Store them in the refrigerator and smoke them the day you plan to serve them.

2. Can I make Smoked Pig Shots without a smoker?
If you don’t have a smoker, you can cook them on a grill using indirect heat or bake them in the oven. Just ensure you get that crispy bacon texture, either by grilling with a lid on or baking at a high temperature.

3. How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy bacon, ensure that you cook the pig shots long enough for the bacon to crisp up. If you’re using a grill or smoker, cooking directly on the grates will help the fat render and allow the bacon to become crispy.

4. Can I freeze leftover Smoked Pig Shots?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pig shots. Allow them to cool completely, place them in a single layer to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or air fryer until warmed through and crispy again.

5. How can I make the cream cheese filling less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the jalapeños or replace them with milder ingredients like diced bell peppers. You can also adjust the amount of seasoning to taste.

6. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the smoked sausage with Italian sausage, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the sausage is cooked before wrapping it in bacon.

7. How long do Smoked Pig Shots need to cook?
Smoked Pig Shots should be smoked for 60-75 minutes at 375°F, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the filling is bubbly. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your smoker or grill.

8. Can I use a different cheese instead of sharp cheddar?
Yes, you can swap the sharp cheddar cheese for any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

9. What is Slap Ya Mama seasoning?
Slap Ya Mama seasoning is a popular Cajun spice mix that combines ingredients like salt, pepper, garlic, and other spices. If you don’t have it, you can make a similar blend at home or substitute with Cajun seasoning.

10. Can I make Smoked Pig Shots without toothpicks?
If you don’t have toothpicks, you can use small skewers or even kitchen twine to secure the bacon in place. Alternatively, you could lay the wrapped sausage directly on the grill or smoker with the bacon tucked under.

Smoked Pig Shots are the ultimate appetizer for any occasion, combining bold flavors with a perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or simply craving a delicious snack, these pig shots are sure to impress your guests. With their smoky aroma and rich, cheesy filling, they’ll disappear in no time. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and get ready for rave reviews!

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