Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a show-stopping dish that’s sure to become an instant favorite – Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight! Picture this – golden pasta shells stuffed with a mouthwatering mixture of ground beef, hot Italian sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and jalapeño, all wrapped in a blanket of smoky bacon and finished off with a sweet-hot barbecue glaze. The result? A flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

The magic of Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight lies in the perfect harmony of ingredients – the savory meat, gooey cheese, spicy kick, and crispy bacon all come together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is exciting. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking for a crowd-pleasing party dish, or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort, these bacon-wrapped delights are sure to hit the spot.

So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your guests with this unique twist on stuffed pasta. With a few simple swaps and storage tips, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences and make it ahead for easy entertaining. Whether enjoyed as a main course or served as appetizers, Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight is bound to be a hit at any gathering.

Quick Benefits

• Delightful combination of smoky bacon, cheesy filling, spicy sausage, and sweet-hot glaze
• Crowd-pleasing dish perfect for backyard gatherings, parties, or potlucks
• Versatile recipe with options to customize spice level and cheese choices
• Make ahead and freezer-friendly for easy meal prep and planning

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of smoky bacon, cheesy filling, spicy sausage, and sweet-hot glaze creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Crowd Favorite: Perfect for backyard gatherings, these Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight disappear quickly and are sure to impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Adaptations: Easily customize the recipe by swapping ingredients like the type of sausage, cheese, or barbecue sauce to suit different preferences.
• Make Ahead: Leftovers can be stored for up to three days and reheated to maintain the crispy bacon exterior, making it a convenient dish for meal prep or parties.
• Great for Parties: Whether as a main course or appetizer, these shells are a showstopper and pair well with classic barbecue sides for a complete feast.
• Seasonal Flexibility: Enjoy these shells in the summer on the patio or in the winter using the oven, making it a versatile recipe for year-round enjoyment.
• Recipe Success Tips: Follow expert tips provided in the recipe for the best results, such as gentle stuffing of the shells, ensuring even bacon crisping, and flavor adjustments for milder versions.
• Grilling Option: For additional smoky flavor, use a grill set for indirect heat with wood chips and monitor the temperature for a delicious twist on the recipe.

Ingredients for Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Pasta

• 16 ounces manicotti shells

Meat Filling

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely diced

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper

Other

• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
• barbecue sauce, for basting
• 32 ounces sliced bacon

Pro Tips for Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To ensure your Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight turn out perfectly every time, gently stuff the shells with a small spoon or piping bag to evenly pack the filling without applying too much pressure. This helps prevent the shells from breaking during cooking.

Pro Tip 2: For a milder version of this dish, you can omit or reduce the amount of jalapeño, hot sausage, and red pepper flakes without sacrificing flavor. This allows you to cater to different spice preferences without compromising on taste.

Pro Tip 3: To achieve a crispy and evenly rendered bacon finish, opt for thin-cut bacon, baste it regularly with barbecue sauce, and ensure proper heat circulation during cooking. This will help create a delightful smoky flavor and perfectly cooked bacon in every bite.

How to Make Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Smoker

Preheat smoker to 250°F until temperature is consistent.

Step 2: Prepare Meat Mixture

Combine ground beef, hot Italian sausage, diced onion, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, jalapeño, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and barbecue sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until evenly combined using clean hands or a spatula.

Step 3: Fill Manicotti Shells

Fill uncooked manicotti shells with the meat mixture from both ends, ensuring they are fully packed and free of air pockets.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed manicotti shell completely with sliced bacon, overlapping strips and using additional pieces if necessary for full coverage.

Step 5: Baste with Barbecue Sauce

Brush each bacon-wrapped shell generously with more barbecue sauce using a pastry brush. Place on a baking sheet.

Step 6: Smoke the Shells

Place shells in the preheated smoker and smoke for 60 minutes. Turn each shell, baste with barbecue sauce, and continue smoking for an additional 60 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

Step 7: Serve

Take the shells out of the smoker and serve while still hot.

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Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy them again, reheat the dish in an oven or toaster oven to help maintain the crispiness of the bacon. If you want to store the dish for a longer period, you can assemble the shells but refrain from smoking them, then tightly wrap and freeze them. To serve from frozen, simply thaw the shells overnight and smoke as usual for a delicious meal.

To make variations to the recipe, consider swapping the spicy sausage for sweet Italian sausage or seasoned ground turkey. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack instead of sharp cheddar to alter the flavor profile of the filling. Different barbecue sauces can also be used to cater to varying preferences, offering either a sweeter or smokier taste. When serving the Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight, consider presenting them on a platter with chopped green onions and extra sauce for dipping, making them a standout main course or appetizer for gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a milder flavor profile, you can easily swap out the hot Italian sausage for sweet Italian sausage or seasoned ground turkey. To adjust the cheese filling, consider using Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses instead of sharp cheddar for a milder or spicier taste, respectively. Experiment with different types of barbecue sauces to cater to your crowd’s preferences, whether they prefer sweeter or smokier undertones.

If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit or reduce the amount of jalapeño, hot sausage, and red pepper flakes while still maintaining the delicious flavors of the dish. When selecting bacon, opt for thin-cut slices and remember to baste regularly for a crisp, evenly rendered finish. If you’re short on time, assemble the dish ahead of schedule and refrigerate it for a few hours before smoking—just remember to bring it to room temperature before starting the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, arrange the Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight on a rustic wooden platter garnished with fresh jalapeño slices and a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce. Serve them as a show-stopping main course at your next backyard barbecue, alongside classic sides like cornbread, mac and cheese, and a refreshing cucumber salad.

To elevate the appetizer game at your next gathering, cut the Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight into bite-sized pieces after smoking, skewer each piece with a toothpick, and serve them as a delicious finger food option. Your guests will love the smoky, cheesy, and bacon-wrapped goodness in every bite, making it a surefire hit for any party or potluck.

FAQs for Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Can I make a milder version of this dish for guests who don’t enjoy spicy food?

Yes, you can omit or reduce the amount of jalapeño, hot sausage, and red pepper flakes to make a milder version of this recipe while still maintaining great flavor.

Can I assemble the dish ahead of time and cook it later?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for a few hours before smoking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before starting the cooking process.

Can I use a grill instead of an oven to cook this dish?

Yes, you can use a grill set for indirect heat to cook this dish. Add wood chips for smoke and monitor the temperature to stay around 250°F for a delicious smoky flavor.

How can I ensure the bacon turns out crispy and evenly cooked?

Use thin-cut bacon, baste it regularly with barbecue sauce, and ensure proper heat circulation while cooking to achieve a crisp, evenly rendered finish.

Conclusion

As you embark on making your own Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight, remember that this recipe is all about indulging in rich, smoky flavors and creating memorable moments with your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply craving a comforting and satisfying meal, these bacon-wrapped delights are sure to impress.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. From swapping out the spicy sausage for a milder option to experimenting with different cheeses and barbecue sauces, there are endless ways to make this dish your own. The beauty of Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight lies in its versatility and ability to bring people together over a shared love of good food.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious creation. Let the aroma of sizzling bacon and melted cheese fill your kitchen and the laughter of your loved ones fill your home. Shotgun Shells Bacon Delight is more than just a recipe — it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and the joy of sharing a meal with those who matter most. Enjoy every moment of creating and savoring this mouthwatering dish!

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Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells Recipe

Smoky bacon-wrapped manicotti shells stuffed with a savory, cheesy filling and sweet-hot glaze – a perfect crowd-pleaser for any barbecue gathering.

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Prep Time25 min

Cook Time120 min

Total Time145 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (16 shotgun shells)

Ingredients

Pasta

• 16 ounces manicotti shells

Meat Filling

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely diced

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper

Other

• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
• barbecue sauce, for basting
• 32 ounces sliced bacon

Instructions

1. Preheat Smoker: Preheat smoker to 250°F until temperature is consistent.
2. Prepare Meat Mixture: Combine ground beef, hot Italian sausage, diced onion, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, jalapeño, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and barbecue sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until evenly combined using clean hands or a spatula.
3. Fill Manicotti Shells: Fill uncooked manicotti shells with the meat mixture from both ends, ensuring they are fully packed and free of air pockets.
4. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed manicotti shell completely with sliced bacon, overlapping strips and using additional pieces if necessary for full coverage.
5. Baste with Barbecue Sauce: Brush each bacon-wrapped shell generously with more barbecue sauce using a pastry brush. Place on a baking sheet.
6. Smoke the Shells: Place shells in the preheated smoker and smoke for 60 minutes. Turn each shell, baste with barbecue sauce, and continue smoking for an additional 60 minutes or until bacon is crisp.
7. Serve: Take the shells out of the smoker and serve while still hot.