There’s nothing quite like the anticipation that fills the air when you fire up the smoker on a sunny afternoon. The moment you hear sizzling sounds mixed with the earthy aroma of smoky bacon is nothing short of magical. Today, I can’t wait to share my beloved recipe for Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells—a perfect blend of spicy Italian sausage, hearty ground beef, and silky cheddar cheese packed into crisp manicotti shells, all wrapped in smoky bacon.
These delightful bites are more than just a mouthwatering appetizer at your next BBQ—they’re an experience that brings family and friends together around the grill. Imagine indulging in a tender, flavor-packed shell that offers a creamy center and a crispy exterior, leaving your guests begging for seconds. Whether you’re an outdoor cooking enthusiast or simply a lover of homemade flavors, this dish is bound to elevate your gatherings and give fast food a run for its money. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen together!
Why Are Smoked Shotgun Shells So Irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite delivers a burst of savory goodness, combining beef, sausage, and cheddar in a deliciously smoky package.
Versatile Cooking: Smoke, bake, or air fry—there’s an option for every craving or cooking preference.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Ideal for gatherings, these shells are bound to impress guests and spark conversation.
Easily Customizable: Swap ingredients based on personal taste or dietary needs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Simple Preparation: With minimal prep work, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your BBQ!
Memorable Experience: The aroma and sizzling sound transform your cooking into a delightful event, making these shells a memorable addition to any meal.
Smoked Shotgun Shells Ingredients
• Get ready to fire up the flavor!
For the Filling
- Manicotti Shells – These provide the perfect sturdy envelope; no need to boil beforehand as they cook during smoking.
- Ground Beef – This adds rich, savory flavor and bumps up the protein; you can swap it out for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Hot Italian Sausage – Offers a lovely kick; feel free to use mild sausage if you prefer a less spicy bite.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and moisture to the mix; shallots or leeks could be great substitutes for a unique twist.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides that delightful tang which perfectly complements the meat; swap for pepper jack if you like more heat.
- Cream Cheese – This ensures your filling is creamy and luscious; try Neufchâtel for a lower-fat option.
- Jalapeño – Adds a fresh, spicy kick; omit it or use bell pepper for a milder flavor experience.
- Slap Ya Mama Seasoning – Infuses the filling with a touch of spice; a mix of paprika and cayenne can work for tailored heat levels.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall aroma; use fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor profile.
- Black Pepper & Red Pepper Flakes – Boost the flavor profile; adjust to suit your taste buds!
For the Wrapping
- Bacon – Envelops the shells with delicious fat and flavor; turkey bacon can lighten the dish, while prosciutto adds a gourmet touch.
For Glazing
- Barbecue Sauce – Gives a sweet, sticky glaze; experiment with a mustard-based sauce for a homemade flair!
How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
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Preheat your smoker to 250°F. This low and slow method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while crisping the bacon perfectly.
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Combine the filling ingredients in a large bowl: ground beef, Italian sausage, diced onion, cheeses, jalapeño, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly but don’t cook it just yet—this mixture is all about raw, fresh flavor.
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Stuff each manicotti shell gently with the meat mixture, ensuring there are no air pockets. Take your time here for the best results—aim for a snug fit!
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Wrap each stuffed shell generously with bacon, making sure to cover the ends completely. Every bite deserves a delicious burst of crispiness.
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Brush more barbecue sauce over the external sides of the shells. This adds an extra layer of sweet, smoky goodness while they cook.
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Arrange the wrapped shells on a baking sheet and smoke them for 60 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook to soak in those wonderful flavors.
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Flip the shells over, adding more barbecue sauce if desired, and smoke for an additional 60 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and delightful.
Optional: Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for an added dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Shotgun Shells
Fridge: Store leftover smoked shotgun shells in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the smoked shotgun shells in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the shells covered in foil at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through, preserving their smoky deliciousness.
Make-Ahead Option: Feel free to prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance; simply store them in the fridge before wrapping and smoking. This way, you’ll have piping-hot smoked shotgun shells ready for your gathering!
Smoked Shotgun Shells Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful alternatives to customize your Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells!
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Vegetarian Filling: Use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, black beans, and multiple cheeses instead of meat for a hearty option that’s sure to please everyone.
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra layer of heat that will ignite your taste buds.
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Cheese Fantasy: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or smoked provolone to create your own signature flavor blend, rich and smokey.
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Bacon Alternative: For a lighter twist, swap out bacon for turkey bacon or prosciutto to maintain flavor while reducing fat.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the filling for a burst of freshness that complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
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Barbecue Sauce Swap: Try a homemade cherry or apple-based barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy glaze that adds a fruity twist to your shells.
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Lower-Carb Style: Use zucchini boats instead of manicotti shells for a low-carb version, perfect for those watching their carbohydrates without sacrificing flavor.
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Cooking Method Variance: Bake the shells at 300°F to achieve a golden-brown finish or air fry them for a quicker, crispy result!
Each variation holds the promise of a new and delightful experience, making these Smoked Shotgun Shells a canvas for your culinary creativity!
Expert Tips for Smoked Shotgun Shells
- Stuff Carefully: Avoid overstuffing the manicotti shells to prevent bursting during cooking—aim for a snug yet manageable fit.
- Monitor Temperature: Ensure your smoker stays at 250°F for optimal flavor infusion; use an internal thermometer for perfectly cooked stuffing.
- Bacon’s Crispy Finish: For irresistibly crispy bacon, check for doneness after the second smoking phase and adjust timing as needed.
- Flavor Balance: Customize heat levels by adjusting your jalapeño and seasoning; ensure it aligns with your guests’ taste preferences for the best smoked shotgun shells.
- Experiment with Cooking: If you’re short on time, try baking at 300°F for 2 hours or air frying for a faster yet equally delicious outcome.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Shotgun Shells are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, sausage, onions, and cheeses) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can stuff the manicotti shells and wrap them in bacon up to 3 days ahead of time. To maintain the crispiest bacon, avoid brushing on barbecue sauce until just before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply smoke or bake them from refrigerated—they’ll turn out just as delicious and flavorful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Picture the joy of gathering with friends and family, sharing delightful flavors that complement your mouthwatering smokey bites, bringing everyone together.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy crunch of coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the shotgun shells beautifully, creating a refreshing contrast.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn adds a burst of summer flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the shells.
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BBQ Baked Beans: This classic side offers a savory sweetness that complements the smoky spices, making for a hearty meal that satisfies.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks provide a delightful texture, perfect for mopping up any leftover barbecue sauce.
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Zesty Potato Salad: A tangy, herb-infused potato salad refreshes the palate and adds a delightful tang to the overall experience.
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Cold Craft Beer: A refreshing craft beer enhances flavors and makes for a perfect drink to wash down those delicious smoked shells.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Freshly squeezed lemonade or a sweet iced tea provide a cooling effect against the smoky barbecue flavors, completing your meal beautifully.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your gathering on a sweet note—these warm, gooey cookies are the perfect way to round off a smoky feast!
Smoked Shotgun Shells Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right manicotti shells?
For this recipe, you’ll want to choose manicotti shells that are intact and free from cracks. Look for the ones with a smooth surface, which makes stuffing easier. Oversized shells might break easier, so aim for those that are robust enough to hold the filling during cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover smoked shotgun shells?
Absolutely! Once cooled, store leftover smoked shotgun shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture.
Can I freeze smoked shotgun shells? How?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first, arrange the cooked smoky shotgun shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven covered with foil at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
What should I do if my shells burst while cooking?
If your shells burst, don’t worry—this can happen! To prevent this in the future, ensure you’re not overstuffing them. A snug fit is ideal; you want just enough filling without packing it too tightly. If they do split, they can still be served as a layered dip with chips—it’s just as tasty!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re accommodating food allergies or dietary restrictions, substitute ingredients accordingly. For a gluten-free option, ensure the manicotti shells are specifically labeled as gluten-free. You can also replace the meats with a mixture of mushrooms, black beans, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian alternative, making it family-friendly for all dietary needs.
Can I use different meats or cheeses in my smoked shotgun shells?
Very much! Feel free to get creative with different meats or cheese based on your preferences. Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner option. For cheese, pepper jack provides some great heat, while an assortment of mild cheeses can make the filling even creamier. Customize it to your heart’s content!
Smoked Shotgun Shells: A Mouthwatering BBQ Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
- Combine the filling ingredients in a large bowl.
- Stuff each manicotti shell gently with the meat mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed shell generously with bacon.
- Brush more barbecue sauce over the shells.
- Arrange the wrapped shells on a baking sheet and smoke them for 60 minutes.
- Flip the shells and smoke for an additional 60 minutes or until bacon is crispy.