Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells are a unique and delicious appetizer that combines the savory flavors of sausage and cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for game day, parties, or family gatherings, these smoked delights will impress your guests with their smoky depth and rich taste. The combination of creamy filling and the smoky aroma makes them stand out on any table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Mixture
• For the Shotgun Shells
• How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
• Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
• Step 2: Mix the Filling
• Step 3: Fill the Manicotti Shells
• Step 4: Wrap in Bacon
• Step 5: Season & Rest
• Step 6: Smoke Them Up!
• Step 7: Crisp Up & Add Sauce
• Step 8: Rest & Serve
• How to Serve Smoked Shotgun Shells
• On a Platter
• With Dipping Sauces
• As Party Bites
• Paired with Drinks
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board
• How to Perfect Smoked Shotgun Shells
• Best Side Dishes for Smoked Shotgun Shells
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Smoked Shotgun Shells
• Reheating Smoked Shotgun Shells
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Smoked Shotgun Shells?
• Can I use different meats?
• How do I serve Smoked Shotgun Shells?
• What are some good sides for this dish?
• Can I make these ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The mix of Italian sausage and cheese creates a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with the smokiness from the smoker.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have these smoked shotgun shells ready to go into the smoker with just a few simple steps.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, these shells fit in perfectly at any gathering.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of bacon-wrapped goodness is sure to get rave reviews from friends and family alike.
• Smoky Goodness: Infusing these shells with smoke adds an irresistible flavor that elevates this dish beyond typical appetizers.

Tools and Preparation

To make smoking your shotgun shells as easy as pie, gather some essential tools before you start cooking. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Wire rack
• Disposable piping bag
• Large bowl
• Sheet pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: The heart of this recipe, it imparts delightful smoky flavors to your shotgun shells.
• Wire rack: Allows even airflow around the shells while cooking, ensuring they cook thoroughly.
• Disposable piping bag: Makes filling the manicotti easy and mess-free, giving you control over how much mixture goes in.
• Large bowl: Essential for mixing all your ingredients together without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Mixture

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 4 oz Mozzarella cheese
• 4 oz Cream cheese
• 2 tsp Barbecue rub

For the Shotgun Shells

• 12 Manicotti shells
• 1 lb Bacon
• 1/2 cup Barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup Barbecue rub

How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Set the cream cheese out until it’s room temperature. Shred the mozzarella cheese and set it aside until you’re ready to make the shotgun shells.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

Combine sausage, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and 2 tsp of barbecue rub in a large bowl. Mix well until combined.

Step 3: Fill the Manicotti Shells

Add the meat mixture to a disposable piping bag fitted with a large tip. Squeeze the pork mixture into the uncooked manicotti shells halfway. Turn the pasta tube around and fill in the other half. If you don’t have a piping bag, use any kitchen utensil that will fit, such as a mini spatula or spoon.

Step 4: Wrap in Bacon

Wrap each stuffed shell with bacon, ensuring you cover them entirely. The bacon should reach both ends of each shell for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Season & Rest

Place the wrapped shells on a wire rack set over a large sheet pan underneath. Apply a generous amount of your favorite barbecue rub to fully coat each shell. Allow them to rest for four hours to overnight for optimal flavor development.

Step 6: Smoke Them Up!

When you’re ready to cook, set your smoker to 250 degrees Fahrenheit using your preferred wood type. Place the shotgun shells far from the heat source and allow them to smoke for one hour. After 30 minutes, turn them to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Crisp Up & Add Sauce

After an hour of smoking, increase heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes to crisp up the bacon. Once crisped to your liking, apply your favorite barbecue sauce and continue cooking at 350 for another 15 minutes.

Step 8: Rest & Serve

Once done, remove the shotgun shells from the smoker and let them rest for about five minutes before serving whole or cut into medallions.

With these steps complete, you’ll have delicious smoked shotgun shells ready for everyone to enjoy!

How to Serve Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked shotgun shells make a fantastic appetizer that can be served in various ways. Whether at a party or a casual gathering, you’ll want to impress your guests with these delicious bites.

On a Platter

• Arrange the smoked shotgun shells on a large platter for an eye-catching display. This allows guests to easily grab them as they mingle.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve with different dipping sauces like extra barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard for added flavor and variety.

As Party Bites

• Cut the smoked shotgun shells into medallions for bite-sized portions. This makes them easier to serve and eat during parties or gatherings.

Paired with Drinks

• Offer them alongside cold beverages such as beer or cocktails. The smoky flavors complement many drink options beautifully.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate smoked shotgun shells into a charcuterie board with cheeses, cured meats, and olives for an elevated appetizer spread.

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How to Perfect Smoked Shotgun Shells

Achieving the perfect smoked shotgun shells takes some practice but is worth every effort. Here are some tips to ensure your appetizer turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sausage and cheese. Freshness enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Don’t Overstuff: Fill the manicotti shells halfway, then turn and fill the other half. Overstuffing can cause them to burst while cooking.

• Wrap Tightly: Ensure bacon wraps around each shell snugly. This will help keep everything together during smoking and add extra flavor.

• Smoke at Low Temperature: Begin smoking at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal flavor infusion before increasing the heat to crisp up the bacon.

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the smoked shotgun shells to rest after cooking helps meld the flavors together and makes them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Shotgun Shells

Pairing smoked shotgun shells with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of smoked shotgun shells.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a comforting side that pairs well with smoky appetizers.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn enhances the smoky flavors, creating a delightful combination.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the savory taste of the smoked shotgun shells.
5. Macaroni Salad: A classic macaroni salad offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with crispy bacon.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and vibrancy to your plate while providing a satisfying crunch.
7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dunking in any leftover barbecue sauce from the smoked shotgun shells.
8. Pickles: Tangy pickles add acidity that cuts through the richness of the bacon and sausage, enhancing each bite.

With these serving ideas, tips, and side dish suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your smoked shotgun shells!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making smoked shotgun shells, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the resting time: Failing to let the wrapped shells rest can lead to uneven flavors. Allowing them to sit for at least four hours helps the spices penetrate.
• Not using enough bacon: Under-wrapping your shells with bacon will result in less flavor and moisture. Ensure each shell is completely covered from end to end.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cooking at too high a temperature initially can cause the bacon to burn. Start low and increase the heat only after smoking for an hour.
• Ignoring wood choice: Using the wrong type of wood can affect flavor. Choose hardwoods like hickory or apple for a better smoky taste.
• Rushing the filling process: If you’re not careful while filling, you might underfill or overfill the manicotti shells. Use a piping bag for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Wrap individual shells in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, ensuring even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about smoked shotgun shells that may help clarify your cooking experience.

What are Smoked Shotgun Shells?

Smoked shotgun shells are manicotti pasta stuffed with sausage and cheese, wrapped in bacon, and cooked in a smoker for a delicious appetizer.

Can I use different meats?

Yes! You can customize your smoked shotgun shells by using ground chicken, turkey, or beef instead of Italian sausage.

How do I serve Smoked Shotgun Shells?

You can serve them whole or sliced into medallions. Pair with your favorite barbecue sauce for extra flavor!

What are some good sides for this dish?

Consider pairing smoked shotgun shells with coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them up to wrapping and resting stages. Just smoke them when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Smoked shotgun shells offer an exciting blend of flavors that are sure to impress at any gathering. Their versatility allows you to experiment with different fillings and sauces. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and customize it to your liking!