Are you planning a party or get-together and looking for a delicious and easy appetizer to serve? Look no further than bacon-wrapped smokies!
These bite-sized sausages wrapped in crispy bacon are always a crowd-pleaser. But once they’re cooked, how do you keep them warm and tasty for your guests?
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for keeping your bacon-wrapped smokies warm, whether you’re using a slow cooker, oven, or freezer. Plus, we’ll share tips for storing and reheating leftovers.
So let’s get started and make sure your next party is a hit with perfectly warm and delicious bacon-wrapped smokies!
How To Keep Bacon Wrapped Smokies Warm?
One of the best ways to keep your bacon-wrapped smokies warm is by using a slow cooker. Simply place them in the slow cooker on the low setting and add a bit of maple syrup to keep them moist and enhance the flavor.
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can also keep them warm in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and set the oven to warm. This will keep them at a safe temperature without overcooking them.
Another option is to use wood skewers instead of toothpicks to keep the bacon wrapped around the smokies. This will help them stay together during cooking and make it easier to transfer them to a serving dish.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or toss them back in the oven until warm.
And if you want to freeze your bacon-wrapped smokies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover before freezing for a few hours or up to overnight. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag or another freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
Introduction: The Delicious And Easy Appetizer
Bacon wrapped smokies are a delicious and easy appetizer that are sure to please any crowd. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game day, or even just a fun snack at home. They are simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
To make bacon wrapped smokies, all you need are little smokies sausages, thin-cut bacon, brown sugar, and spices of your choice. Wrap each smokie in a piece of bacon, roll it in brown sugar and spices, and secure it with a toothpick. Bake until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.
The result is a sweet and savory treat that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? You can easily keep them warm and ready to serve with just a few simple tips and tricks. So next time you’re looking for an easy and delicious appetizer, give bacon wrapped smokies a try!
Why Keeping Bacon Wrapped Smokies Warm Is Important
Keeping bacon-wrapped smokies warm is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish. When served hot, the bacon stays crispy and the brown sugar glaze remains caramelized and bubbly. This enhances the overall taste and presentation of the dish, making it more enjoyable for guests.
Secondly, keeping them warm ensures that they are safe to eat. Food that has been cooked and then left at room temperature for an extended period can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. By keeping the smokies warm, you are reducing the risk of foodborne illness and ensuring that your guests can enjoy your delicious appetizer without any health concerns.
Lastly, keeping bacon-wrapped smokies warm is important for convenience. By using a slow cooker or oven to keep them warm, you can prepare them ahead of time and have them ready to serve when your guests arrive. This allows you to spend more time enjoying the party and less time in the kitchen.
Using A Slow Cooker To Keep Bacon Wrapped Smokies Warm
Using a slow cooker is a great way to keep your bacon-wrapped smokies warm for any party or gathering. The slow cooker is perfect for keeping the smokies at a safe temperature without overcooking them.
To use a slow cooker, start by pouring about 1 cup of brown sugar on the bottom of the crockpot. Then, wrap each cocktail wiener with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Place the bacon-wrapped wieners in a single layer in the crockpot on top of the brown sugar. Sprinkle more brown sugar over the top of the smokies.
Cook the smokies on high for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. After 3 hours, turn the slow cooker off, so they do not burn. You can keep them on warm for up to 2 hours, checking on them occasionally and stirring if needed.
If you want to add some extra flavor and moisture to your smokies, pour about 2 tablespoons of maple syrup in the crockpot before adding them. This will enhance the flavor and keep them moist.
When serving, remove the smokies from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving dish. They are now ready to be enjoyed by your guests!
Keeping Bacon Wrapped Smokies Warm In The Oven
If you prefer to keep your bacon-wrapped smokies warm in the oven, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to use a low temperature setting to avoid overcooking them. Set your oven to the warm setting, which is usually around 200-225 degrees Fahrenheit.
To keep the smokies from sticking to the baking sheet, line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will also make for easier clean-up later on. Arrange the smokies in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
Once the smokies are on the baking sheet, cover them with foil. This will help trap in the heat and keep them warm while also preventing them from drying out. You can also add a bit of water or broth to the baking sheet to create steam and keep them moist.
It’s important to check on the smokies periodically to make sure they are still warm and not overcooking. If they start to dry out, you can brush them with a bit of BBQ sauce or maple syrup to add moisture and flavor.
When it’s time to serve, transfer the smokies to a serving dish using tongs or a slotted spoon. You can also leave them on the baking sheet and place it directly on your serving table for a rustic look.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your bacon-wrapped smokies stay warm and delicious for your guests to enjoy.
Freezing Bacon Wrapped Smokies For Later
If you want to freeze your bacon-wrapped smokies for later use, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure they are fully cooked before freezing. Once they are cooked, allow them to cool completely before freezing.
There are a couple of methods you can use to freeze bacon-wrapped smokies. One option is to place them into a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze. Another option is to place them on a baking sheet and freeze them uncovered for about an hour until they are frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
To prevent the smokies from sticking together, make sure they are arranged in a single layer when freezing. If you want to use only a few at a time, it’s best to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag once they are frozen.
When you’re ready to use the frozen smokies, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet and heating them at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes. If you’re using the microwave, heat them in 20-second intervals until they are heated through.
It’s important to note that frozen bacon-wrapped smokies may not be as crispy as freshly cooked ones. However, they will still be delicious and convenient for quick snacks or appetizers.
Storing And Reheating Leftover Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Leftover bacon-wrapped smokies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three to four days. If you have a large batch of leftovers, you can also freeze them for later use. To freeze, arrange the smokies in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover before freezing for a few hours or up to overnight. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or another freezer-safe container.
To reheat refrigerated smokies, you can simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or toss them back in the oven until warm. If you prefer to use the oven, place them on a baking sheet and reheat at 325°F until warmed through.
When reheating frozen smokies, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through.
It’s important to note that when reheating leftover bacon-wrapped smokies, you should avoid overcooking them as this can cause the bacon to become tough and chewy. Keeping them at a safe temperature without overcooking is the key to maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.
