Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available for better crisping.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and onion powder until well combined.
- Wrap each sausage slice with one half-strip of bacon, forming a small cup or barrel shape. Secure the bacon ends with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the bacon-wrapped sausage pieces on the prepared baking sheet, standing them upright if possible.
- Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into the top of each bacon-wrapped sausage cup, filling them generously.
- Brush the tops lightly with a little extra barbecue sauce if desired.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through and the filling is hot and bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired and serve warm.
Notes
For the best texture, use thick-cut bacon and avoid overfilling the cups so the filling stays in place while baking. A wire rack helps the bacon crisp more evenly, but the recipe will still work on a foil-lined baking sheet.
