Smoked bacon-wrapped pickles are a flavorful twist on a popular snack. This smoky version combines the salty, crispy taste of bacon with the tangy, crunchy bite of pickles, all enhanced by the deep flavor from smoking. They make the perfect appetizer or party snack and are super easy to make with just a few ingredients and a smoker.
In this guide, we’ll share how to make bacon-wrapped pickles smoked to perfection, along with tips and variations to customize this delicious dish.
Why Smoke Bacon Wrapped Pickles?
Smoking your bacon-wrapped pickles takes them to the next level. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Enhanced smoky flavor: The smoking process infuses the bacon with a rich, smoky taste that complements the tangy pickles perfectly.
- Simple preparation: With only bacon and pickles as the main ingredients, it’s easy to make, and the smoker does most of the work.
- Crowd-pleaser: These smoked bites are great for parties, game days, or whenever you want to impress your guests with something unique and tasty.
How to Make Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Ingredients:
- 12 dill pickle spears
- 12 slices of bacon
- Toothpicks (optional, to secure the bacon)
Instructions:
- Preheat the smoker: Set your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
- Prepare the pickles: Pat the dill pickle spears dry with a paper towel. This helps the bacon stick and prevents excess moisture.
- Wrap in bacon: Wrap each pickle spear with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Smoke the pickles: Place the bacon-wrapped pickles directly on the smoker rack. Smoke for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the bacon is crispy and has a deep smoky flavor.
- Serve warm: Once smoked, let the pickles cool for a few minutes, then enjoy them warm as a savory snack or appetizer.
Suggested Dips
Pair your smoked bacon-wrapped pickles with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Variations for Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Customize your smoked bacon-wrapped pickles with these easy variations:
- Spicy Smoked Pickles: Sprinkle cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili powder on the bacon before wrapping for a touch of heat.
- Cheesy Pickles: Add a slice of cheese inside each pickle spear before wrapping it in bacon. Cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella work great.
- Maple-Glazed Bacon: For a sweet and savory twist, brush a little maple syrup on the bacon before smoking.
For more creative smoky snacks, consider trying Bacon Wrapped Pickles in an Air Fryer as a quicker alternative with the same great flavor.
Tips for Perfectly Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pickles
- Choose the right wood chips: Use hickory, applewood, or cherry wood chips for a great smoky flavor.
- Even spacing on the smoker rack: Make sure the pickles are placed in a single layer, not touching each other, for even cooking.
- Crispier bacon option: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, pre-cook the bacon slices in the oven for a few minutes before wrapping the pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use different types of pickles?
Yes! While dill pickles are traditional, you can use bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles for different flavors.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover smoked bacon-wrapped pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the smoker, oven, or air fryer to restore the crispiness.
3. Are smoked bacon-wrapped pickles keto-friendly?
Yes! Both bacon and pickles are naturally low in carbs, making this dish a great keto-friendly snack or appetizer.
Conclusion: Smoky, Crispy, and Tangy
Smoked bacon-wrapped pickles combine all the best flavors – crispy, smoky bacon with tangy, crunchy pickles – to create a snack that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re making these for a crowd or as a tasty treat for yourself, they’re simple to make and sure to impress.
Final Verdict: If you love bacon, pickles, and smoky flavors, this is a must-try recipe for you!