Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! It’s one of my all-time favorite recipes that never fails to impress at parties – those delightful Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese! Now, let me tell you about the first time I made these. I invited my friends over for game night, and had no clue how they’d react to this bizarrely named dish. But the moment they took a bite into that crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapeño combo, I could see their eyes light up! They became an instant hit and have been a staple ever since.
These little bites are basically savory decadence cooked to perfection. Not only do they satisfy your cravings for bacon and cheese (because, really, who can say no to that?), but they also add a fun twist that’s perfect for any gathering – whether it’s game day, a backyard barbecue, or just a cozy night in with friends. Plus, they’re super easy to make! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this deliciousness!
What’s in Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese?
– **Bacon:** We all know bacon makes everything better! For this recipe, I like using thick-cut bacon, as it holds up well and creates that crispy cup you need for the filling.
– **Jalapeño Slices:** Fresh or pickled, they add a delightful kick! I usually have both on hand, depending on whether I want some fresh heat or tangy goodness.
– **Cream Cheese:** This gooey goodness is the base for the filling. Make sure it’s softened, so it mixes nicely.
– **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** Because who doesn’t love that cheesy flavor? I prefer sharp cheddar for an extra zing.
– **Garlic Powder:** A must-have for that savory depth. It’s a game changer!
– **Onion Powder:** Adds a lovely rich flavor without the tearful chopping!
– **Paprika:** Just a bit to enhance the flavor and give a nice touch of color.
– **Black Pepper:** Because everything needs a little kick!
– **Salt:** To bring all those delicious flavors to life.
– **Optional: Chopped Green Onions:** A lovely garnish that adds color and a fresh crunch to the final dish.
Is Oven-Baked Pig Shots Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health for a second. These little beauties are definitely on the indulgent side, given the bacon and cream cheese. But let’s also consider the bright side!
– **Bacon:** While it’s high in protein and fat, moderation is key here. If you’re looking to lighten things up, turkey bacon could be a tasty alternative!
– **Jalapeños:** These spicy little nuggets are low in calories and loaded with antioxidants. They can even boost metabolism – just a little hot kick for your health!
– **Cream Cheese:** Provides calcium and healthy fat, but be mindful of the serving size.
– **Cheddar Cheese:** A source of protein and calcium, cheddar can also be high in fat. I like to use a sharp variety for more flavor while using less.
Overall, while these pig shots aren’t exactly a health food, they are great for occasional indulgence, especially when shared with friends!
Ingredients
– 12 slices of bacon
– 12 jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled)
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
**Serves:** 6 (2 pig shots per person!)
How to Make Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). There’s nothing worse than undercooked bacon, right?
2. Grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is creamy and well-blended – you want that filling to be perfect!
3. Now for the fun part: take each slice of bacon and wrap it around a shot glass or muffin tin to create a bacon cup. If the ends are stubborn, use toothpicks to keep them secured.
4. Place these bacon-wrapped cups on a baking dish or a lined baking sheet – they look like little nests of happiness!
5. Generously spoon the cream cheese mixture into each bacon cup until they’re nice and full. No half-measures here!
6. Top each filled cup with a slice of jalapeño. You can add more if you’re feeling daring!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Just try not to drool while you wait!
8. Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving. You don’t want to burn your mouth on that cheesy goodness.
9. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm!
Snack Time Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to shake things up:
– Try using different kinds of cheese like pepper jack for extra spice.
– Mix in some crumbled sausage or diced bell peppers for a varied filling.
– Swap out the jalapeños for banana peppers or even a pickle slice for a different twist!
– Make these ahead of time and refrigerate; they reheat beautifully in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
I can’t wait for you to try these Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up. Share your experience with me – I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Happy cooking!
