Kurt
Culinary Explorer
Try this yummy treat!
Ingredients:
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon barbecue seasoning or your favorite dry rub
- 24 toothpicks
Instructions:
- Prepare the bacon:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise so you have 24 pieces of bacon.
- Assemble the pig shots:
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeño until well combined.
- Stuff the bacon:
- Take each piece of bacon and stretch it gently with the back of a knife. Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture over the bacon strip.
- Roll up the bacon:
- Starting from one end, roll up the bacon strip tightly with the cheese mixture inside. Secure each roll with a toothpick.
- Season the pig shots:
- Sprinkle each bacon roll (now a pig shot) with barbecue seasoning or your favorite dry rub. This adds flavor and a bit of spice.
- Bake the pig shots:
- Place the pig shots on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned.
- Serve hot:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter and serve warm.
Tips:
- Variations: You can customize the filling by adding diced onions, garlic, or even a bit of cooked sausage to the cheese mixture.
- Grilling option: If you prefer, you can grill the pig shots instead of baking them. Cook them over medium heat on a grill until the bacon is crispy, turning occasionally.
- Make ahead: Pig shots can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
I love how creative it is with combining bacon and cheese. Can't wait to try making these for our next backyard barbecue—they seem like the perfect crowd-pleaser! 
