There’s something about Smoked Shotgun Shells that makes my heart race and taste buds tingle like they’re at a concert front row, soaking in the savory symphony of smoky, spicy, and oh-so-delicious flavors. Imagine crispy bacon wrapped around a tender sausage filling, all infused with a rich blend of spices and smoked to perfection. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of backyard barbecues and tailgating parties, calling out to friends for a feast that’s both fun and addictive. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Every time I whip up a batch of these delightful shells, I’m transported back to that unforgettable summer night when my buddy Dave attempted to impress everyone with his culinary skills. Let’s just say the only thing he managed to impress was the local fire department. Luckily, my Smoked Shotgun Shells saved the day, and now they’re my go-to crowd-pleaser for any occasion that demands good food and great company.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip them up without breaking a sweat
- Their flavor profile is a delicious mix of smoky and savory goodness that will have your taste buds dancing
- Visually appealing, they look stunning on any platter at gatherings or BBQs
- Versatile enough to customize fillings based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge!
I still chuckle when I think about how my friends devoured my Smoked Shotgun Shells in minutes while trying to forget Dave’s charred disaster in the corner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
12 Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for large shells; they hold the stuffing beautifully and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Ground Sausage: Choose your favorite sausage—spicy or mild—for different flavor profiles; it makes a world of difference.
Bacon Strips: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch; it wraps around the shells perfectly and adds irresistible smokiness.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works wonders for creaminess; feel free to experiment with different types!
Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder): These add depth and enhance the overall flavor; don’t skimp on seasoning!
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite sauce will add a tangy kick; drizzle some over before serving for extra yumminess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
Prepping these Smoked Shotgun Shells is like embarking on an exciting culinary adventure—get ready for mouthwatering results!
Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, ensuring they don’t stick together.
Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground sausage until fully cooked. Stir in spices like paprika and garlic powder for flavor enhancement.
Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each pasta shell generously with the sausage mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them good!
Wrap with Bacon: Take each filled shell and wrap it snugly with bacon strips. Secure with toothpicks if necessary; this step is essential for maximum flavor infusion during cooking.
Smoke Them Up!: Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C). Arrange your bacon-wrapped shells on the grill grates and let them smoke for 1 hour until perfectly crispy.
Add BBQ Sauce & Serve!: Brush BBQ sauce over each shell during the last 10 minutes of smoking. Once done, serve hot and watch everyone dive in!
Now that you’ve mastered making these heavenly Smoked Shotgun Shells, prepare yourself for compliments galore as friends ask for seconds!
You Must Know
- Smoked Shotgun Shells are a crowd-pleaser, combining flavors in a unique way
- They’re perfect for parties or game day
- The smell of smoking meat will have everyone flocking to the grill, and the crispy edges are simply irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve smoky perfection, first, prepare your shells while preheating your smoker to 225°F. Then, stuff them with your favorite filling and smoke for about two hours for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out the cheese or add different spices to customize your Smoked Shotgun Shells. You can even experiment with different meats for unique flavor combinations.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Smoked Shotgun Shells, always use fresh ingredients to elevate flavors
- Make sure not to overstuff, as this can lead to messy results
- Lastly, monitor the smoker temperature closely for consistent cooking
Smoked Shotgun Shells hold a special place in my heart after my buddy tried them at our last cookout. His joyful face was priceless when he took that first bite!
FAQ
What are Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Smoked Shotgun Shells are pasta tubes stuffed with delicious fillings and smoked for added flavor.
How long do I smoke Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Smoke them at 225°F for about two hours until they reach perfection.
Can I use different meats for stuffing?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various meats or even vegetarian fillings.
Smoked Shotgun Shells
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Delight your taste buds with Smoked Shotgun Shells, a crowd-pleasing dish featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with savory ground sausage, wrapped in crispy bacon, and infused with smoky flavors. Perfect for tailgating or backyard barbecues, these delectable bites are sure to steal the show at any gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’re just one step away from creating a memorable culinary experience!
Ingredients
- 12 Jumbo Pasta Shells
- 1 lb Ground Sausage (spicy or mild)
- 12 strips Thick-Cut Bacon
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ cup BBQ Sauce
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground sausage. Stir in paprika and garlic powder until fully combined.
- 3. Stuff the Shells: Fill each pasta shell generously with the sausage mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- 4. Wrap with Bacon: Tightly wrap each stuffed shell with a strip of bacon; secure with toothpicks if needed.
- 5. Smoke the Shells: Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place bacon-wrapped shells on grill grates and smoke for 1 hour.
- 6. Add BBQ Sauce & Serve: Brush BBQ sauce over shells during the last 10 minutes of smoking. Serve hot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 shells (130g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
