Festive Pig Shots
These irresistible bacon-wrapped kielbasa bites filled with a savory-sweet cream cheese mixture are guaranteed to be the star of your next holiday celebration. Combining smoky, crispy, creamy, and sweet elements in one perfect bite, Pig Shots deliver maximum flavor with surprisingly simple preparation.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat
- Toothpicks
- Wire Rack (optional)
- Piping Bag or Zip-top Bag (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 1 pound regular-cut bacon avoid thick-cut
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar light or dark
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons green onions finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. For best results, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
- Slice the kielbasa into approximately 1-inch thick rounds. Aim for pieces that are between 3/4-inch to 1-inch thick to create the perfect "shot glass" foundation.
- Cut the bacon strips in half crosswise. Wrap each piece around the outer edge of a kielbasa slice, starting at the bottom and wrapping upward to create a cup-like structure. Secure with a toothpick.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, brown sugar, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until thoroughly incorporated.
- Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each bacon-wrapped kielbasa cup. Fill each cup generously, creating a slight dome on top.
- Place the filled pig shots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch between each for proper bacon crisping.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bacon begins to crisp and the filling is bubbly.
- If using maple syrup, brush the tops lightly during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra caramelized finish.
- Bake until the bacon is fully crisp and the filling is bubbly and slightly golden, approximately 35-40 minutes total.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Remove toothpicks if desired, or leave them in as picks for guests.
Notes
For best presentation, arrange on a wooden board with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive holiday look.
You can assemble these up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 3-5 minutes to the baking time if cooking from the refrigerator.
Leftover Pig Shots can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon and reduced-fat cream cheese.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 12gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 58mgSodium: 685mgPotassium: 182mgSugar: 7gVitamin A: 310IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 0.6mg
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