If you’re searching for an unforgettable appetizer that will wow your guests, look no further than the best pig shots recipe. These delightful bites, often referred to as pig shots, are packed with flavor and are sure to become a staple at your gatherings. With a perfect combination of savory sausage, crispy bacon, and a creamy filling, these treats are an absolute must-try. Below, I’ll guide you through the process of creating smoked pig shots with a mouthwatering maple bourbon glaze.
What Are Pig Shots?
Pig shots are a tantalizing combination of sausage and bacon, often filled with a delicious mixture of cheeses and spices. Originating from BBQ culture, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, tailgating, or simply indulging on a cozy evening at home. The versatility of pig shots allows you to customize the filling to suit your taste, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Best Pig Shots Recipe
To create the best pig shots recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Sausage: Choose your favorite sausage—Italian, breakfast, or smoked sausage work wonderfully.
- Thick-cut bacon: The star of the show, bacon adds a crispy, savory element.
- Cream cheese: For a rich, creamy filling.
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy depth to the filling.
- Shredded cheese: Any cheese you prefer—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Jalapeños: Finely diced for an optional kick of heat (or leave them out for a milder option).
- BBQ rub: A flavorful blend of spices to enhance the taste of your filling.
- Maple syrup: For sweetness and depth in the glaze.
- Honey: Adds an additional layer of sweetness.
- Bourbon: Infuses the glaze with a warm, rich flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions To Make The Best Pig Shots Recipe
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing the sausage into one-inch rounds. This size is perfect for creating a sturdy base for your pig shots. Next, ensure your thick-cut bacon is cold; this helps it maintain its shape when wrapping around the sausage.
2. Wrap the Sausage
Take each sausage slice and wrap it tightly with a piece of bacon. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place. This not only holds everything together but also adds an appealing presentation to your pig shots.
3. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and your favorite BBQ rub. This mixture should be creamy, flavorful, and slightly spicy, depending on the amount of jalapeño you include.
4. Pipe the Filling
Transfer the filling to a ziplock bag, cut the tip of one corner, and use it to pipe the filling into each pig shot. Don’t be shy—fill them generously! A jalapeño slice on top adds a finishing touch, providing both flavor and color.
5. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and bourbon. This sweet and savory glaze will elevate your pig shots to a whole new level.
6. Cooking Methods
You can prepare pig shots using various methods, but for the best results, smoking them is recommended. Here’s how:
- Smoking: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the pig shots on the grill grates and smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is bubbly. During the last 15 minutes, drizzle the maple bourbon glaze over each shot to caramelize and enhance the flavor.
- Oven or Air Fryer: If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 25-30 minutes or use an air fryer, adjusting the time based on your model.
Enjoying Your Pig Shots
Once the pig shots are cooked to perfection, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, and watch as your friends and family devour these flavorful bites. The combination of the crispy bacon, savory sausage, creamy filling, and sweet bourbon glaze is simply irresistible.
Variations to Try / Best Pig Shots Recipe
The best pig shots recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese in the filling—try pepper jack for a spicy kick or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Additional Ingredients: Add cooked and crumbled bacon, green onions, or other spices to your filling for extra flavor.
- Sauce Options: Instead of the maple bourbon glaze, try a spicy BBQ sauce or a tangy mustard sauce for a different flavor profile.
With this best pig shots recipe, you’re equipped to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. These smoked pig shots are not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you serve them at a BBQ, a game day gathering, or as a fun weeknight treat, they are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up your smoker, and get ready to indulge in these delightful bites. Happy cooking!
Best Pig Shots Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pig Shots:
- 12 slices of sausage your choice: Italian, smoked, or breakfast
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack
- 1-2 jalapeños finely diced (optional)
- 1 tbsp BBQ rub store-bought or homemade
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp bourbon
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients:
- Slice sausage into 1-inch rounds and set aside.
- Keep the thick-cut bacon cold for easy wrapping.
Wrap Sausage:
- Wrap each sausage slice tightly with a piece of bacon.
- Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick.
Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced jalapeños (if using), and BBQ rub.
- Mix until well combined and creamy.
Pipe the Filling:
- Transfer the filling into a ziplock bag and cut one corner.
- Pipe the filling generously into each pig shot.
- Top each shot with a slice of jalapeño for garnish, if desired.
Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and bourbon until well combined.
Cooking Methods:
- Smoking: Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place pig shots on grill grates and smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, until bacon is crispy and filling is bubbly. Drizzle the glaze over the pig shots during the last 15 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Place pig shots on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until bacon is crispy.
- Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and cook for about 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness.
Serve:
- Allow the pig shots to rest for a few minutes after cooking.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
