Easy BBQ Glaze Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Glazed bacon-wrapped little smokies on a serving tray
Photo via Unsplash

This easy BBQ glaze recipe takes the classic party appetizer — bacon-wrapped little smokies — and makes it even better with a sticky, glossy finish. They come together in under 30 minutes and disappear from the tray just as fast.

Why This Is the Easiest Appetizer You'll Make

Bacon-wrapped smokies barely need a recipe to begin with, which is exactly why this easy BBQ glaze recipe is such a natural fit — you're just adding one more simple step to an already low-effort favorite. The bacon fat helps the glaze cling and caramelize even faster than it would on its own.

The Classic Jalapeño Spread is a crowd-tested favorite for this recipe. If your group likes more heat, swap in the Red Hot Spread instead.

The Easy BBQ Glaze Recipe Method

  1. Wrap each smokie in a half-strip of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
  2. Arrange on a wire rack over a sheet pan or directly on the grill grates over indirect heat.
  3. Cook at 375°F (oven) or on the grill over indirect heat, about 20 minutes, until the bacon is mostly crisp.
  4. Warm your glaze in a small saucepan while the smokies cook.
  5. Brush generously in the last 5 minutes of cooking, letting the sugars set into a glossy coat.
  6. Cool 5 minutes before serving so the glaze isn't scalding hot.

Serving Tips

Serve straight off the tray with toothpicks still in for easy grabbing, and set a small bowl of extra warmed glaze alongside for dipping. This easy BBQ glaze recipe scales up effortlessly — just use two sheet pans if you're feeding a bigger crowd.

Make-Ahead Option

Wrap the smokies up to a day ahead and refrigerate, then cook and glaze right before your event so they come out hot and fresh. It's one less thing to think about on party day.

Find more easy party appetizer glazes at Smoky Mountain Spread.

Back to blog