Barbecue Bacon and Gouda Shots

Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Bites with Gouda Cheese Filling

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delectable appetizer that marries the smoky richness of bacon and sausage with the creamy delight of cheese. Our Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Bites are an indulgent treat, filled with a luscious mixture of cream cheese and Dutch Gouda, making them the perfect starter for any gathering or a delicious treat for yourself.

Creating these savory bites is a straightforward process, but the result is nothing short of gourmet. The key to achieving perfection lies in selecting high-quality ingredients. Choose a good brand of cream cheese for a smooth texture and opt for a rich, flavorful Dutch Gouda cheese that melts beautifully. The sausages should be solidly smoked to complement the bacon's crispiness. Wrapping each bite with thick-cut bacon not only adds a delectable crunch but also encases the juicy sausage and creamy filling, sealing the flavors.

Preparation is simple but requires attention to detail. Properly shredding the Gouda allows it to melt seamlessly into the cream cheese mixture, enhanced with barbecue seasoning for a hint of smokiness. An essential tip is to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing, ensuring a smooth blend. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line your baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil for easy cleanup and perfect baking. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around each sausage slice, preventing any tangy escape of cheese during cooking.

In crafting these morsels, ensure uniformity in the size of your sausage and bacon slices to promote even cooking. The final touch of vibrant green onions adds a burst of fresh flavor and a dash of color, transforming these bites into an irresistible platter that will disappear in minutes. Let's dive into the recipe to create these savory sensations!

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese: Provides a rich, creamy filling; let it soften for easy mixing.
• 8 oz Dutch Gouda cheese: A flavorful addition with a smooth, meltable texture; shred before use.
• 3 links smoked sausage (about 8 oz): Offers a hearty, savory element; choose your favorite smoked variety.
• 12 slices thick-cut bacon (about 1 lb): Ensures a crispy, flavorful wrap for the sausage bites.
• Nonstick aluminum foil: Prevents sticking and enables easy cleanup.
• 24 toothpicks: Secures the bacon wrap, ensuring everything stays intact during cooking.
• 2 tablespoons barbecue seasoning: Enhances the cheese filling with a smoky, tangy kick.
• ¾ cup sliced fresh green onions, divided: Adds an aromatic finish; reserve some for garnish.
• Quart-size zip-top bag (optional): Assists in piping the cheese mixture into the sausage cylinders if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by allowing the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy, lump-free texture when mixed. Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil, ensuring easy cleanup and preventing the bites from sticking.
2. Shred and Mix: Use a box grater to shred the Gouda cheese finely. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Gouda, barbecue seasoning, and ½ cup of the sliced green onions. Mix until completely smooth and evenly dispersed. For ease, consider using an electric mixer on a low setting.
3. Prepare Sausages and Bacon: Slice each smoked sausage into 24 pieces, each approximately ½ inch thick. Cut the bacon slices in half to yield 24 shorter strips, suitable for wrapping.
4. Assemble Bites: Lay each sausage slice flat on your prepared baking sheet. Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each sausage piece, overlapped to create a tight circle. Secure each with a toothpick to keep the bite intact and the bacon from unraveling.
5. Fill the Cylinders: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a quart-size zip-top bag if using it as a piping tool. Snip a small corner of the bag and gently fill each bacon-wrapped sausage cylinder with the cheese mixture.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Keep an eye on the oven as the bacon should be crisp and the cheese mixture should be bubbly. Using a thermometer, check that the internal temperature of the sausages reaches 165°F to ensure safe cooking.
7. Finalize and Serve: Allow the bites to rest for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of green onions over the bites for garnish. Serve them warm, reveling in the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Tips for Troubleshooting if Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe

• Filling too thick? If the cheese mixture seems too dense to pipe, stir in a tablespoon of milk or cream to reach a smoother consistency.
• Bacon not crispy enough? Try broiling the bites for a minute or two after baking while keeping a careful watch to avoid burning.
• Bites falling apart? Make sure that the toothpicks are tightly securing the bacon, and consider using additional toothpicks if needed.
• Bites are under-seasoned? Generously sprinkle additional barbecue seasoning or sea salt over the bites before serving.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

These Bacon-Wrapped Sausage Bites are rich and flavorful, complementing a range of sides, drinks, and desserts to create a balanced spread:

• Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette, which offers a refreshing contrast. Another excellent choice is roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic glaze to add a touch of earthiness.
• Drinks: Pair with a crisp, cold lager beer that complements the smokiness. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider a zesty, ginger-infused lemonade for a refreshing match.
• Desserts: Round off the meal with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate or offer rich, dark chocolate truffles for a sumptuous finish.
• Garnishes: Enhance the dish with additional sprigs of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and freshness on the plate.

How to Store Properly

To maintain the quality of any leftovers, follow these storage tips:

• For refrigeration: Place any leftover bites in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• For freezing: If you need to freeze these bites, ensure they are completely cooled. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen in a 375°F oven, allowing an extra 10 minutes for heating.

FAQs

• Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely! A sharp cheddar or smoked gouda can add delightful variations to the recipe, providing different flavor profiles.
• Is there a vegetarian-friendly option? Consider using vegetarian sausage links and plant-based bacon to maintain the same vibrant flavors sans meat.
• What can I do if I don’t have barbecue seasoning? Mix your own using paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, and ground mustard for a DIY version that adds the same smoky depth.
• Why should I use thick-cut bacon? Thick-cut bacon is less likely to overcook and maintains a satisfying crisp texture while providing sturdiness to hold the bite together.