The sizzle of bacon wrapping around tender pasta is just the beginning of a flavor adventure that awaits with these Smoked Shotgun Shells. Picture this: you’re gathered around the grill with friends and family, the air thick with smoky goodness, laughter echoing as you unveil a plate of these unique appetizers. Each manicotti shell is packed high with a savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, and sharp cheddar, then lovingly swaddled in crispy bacon and kissed with barbecue sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a hearty snack, these delicious bites promise to be a showstopper. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up for a weeknight meal, offering a delightful twist on your usual cooking routine. Ready to fire up the smoker or your oven for an unforgettable treat? Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that brings the joy of outdoor cooking right to your table!
Why love Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Irresistible Flavors: The smoky bacon, hearty meat filling, and tangy barbecue sauce create a flavor explosion that your taste buds will adore.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these bite-sized treats are guaranteed to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Versatile Cooking Methods: You can smoke, bake, or air fry these shells, making them adaptable for any cooking style or occasion.
Easy Prep: With a straightforward assembly process, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious creations.
Fill to Your Heart’s Content: Customize the filling with your favorite meats or cheeses to make this dish your own. For inspiration, check out our tips on creative filling variations.
Smoked Shotgun Shells Ingredients
For the Filling
- Manicotti Shells – The sturdy structure for the filling; no need to parboil before stuffing.
- Ground Beef – Offers a robust protein base for flavor; substitute with ground turkey for a healthier option.
- Hot Italian Sausage – Adds a spicy depth; switch to mild sausage for a less fiery experience.
- Onion – Enhances sweetness and flavor; red onion can be used for a milder touch.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides a tangy richness; feel free to substitute with a milder cheese if you wish.
- Cream Cheese – Contributes a delightful creaminess to the filling; Neufchâtel works as a lower-fat alternative.
- Jalapeno – Injects fresh heat; omit if you prefer a milder filling.
- Slap Ya Mama Seasoning – Delivers a unique flavor kick; try your favorite Cajun seasoning or leave it out for a subtle taste.
- Garlic Powder – Imparts aromatic notes; fresh garlic is a wonderful alternative for more intensity.
- Black Pepper – Enhances seasoning overall; white pepper can be an interesting twist.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds additional heat; adjust according to your preference or omit entirely.
For the Wrap
- Bacon – Wraps around each shell for a delightful crispiness; consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Barbecue Sauce – Provides sweet and tangy flavors; opt for a low-sugar version for a healthier treat.
- Additional Barbecue Sauce – To coat and enhance the flavor during the cooking process, making these Smoked Shotgun Shells truly irresistible.
How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
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Preheat the smoker to 250°F. Get your smoker warmed up so it’s ready to work its magic on the shotgun shells, enveloping them in that glorious smoky flavor.
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Mix all filling ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sausage, onion, cheddar, cream cheese, jalapeno, and spices until well blended. This rich mixture is the heart of your shells.
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Stuff each manicotti shell. Gently fill each uncooked shell from both ends, ensuring a good pack without air pockets. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Wrap the shells in bacon. Use 1-2 slices of bacon to fully envelop each shell, overlapping as needed to cover the ends, ensuring a crispy wrap that adds to the deliciousness.
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Brush barbecue sauce on the shells. Apply a generous layer of sauce before placing them on a baking sheet, which not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that beautifully caramelized exterior.
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Smoke the shells for 60 minutes. Place the baking sheet in the smoker, flipping the shells halfway through and adding more barbecue sauce if desired to keep them deliciously saucy.
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Finish smoking until crispy. Continue smoking for an additional 60 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy and the filling is heated through, bringing out irresistible textures and tastes.
Optional: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Smoked Shotgun Shells are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The assembled shells can also be prepped and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring they maintain their delicious flavor. Just make sure to tightly wrap each shell in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply unwrap and smoke according to the recipe instructions, allowing for an effortless finish to your meal. You’ll be enjoying these flavorful bites with minimal effort, making them an ideal option for gatherings or busy days!
Storage Tips for Smoked Shotgun Shells
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Room Temperature: Enjoy Smoked Shotgun Shells warm right after cooking; they should be consumed within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with a little barbecue sauce for best results.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Smoked Shotgun Shells in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F, covered in sauce, for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Expert Tips for Smoked Shotgun Shells
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Pack Tightly: Ensure the filling is packed into the manicotti shells, preventing air pockets which can result in uneven cooking.
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Bacon Overlap: Wrap the bacon snugly and overlap it slightly to avoid gaps; this ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior during smoking.
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Sauce Generously: Don’t skimp on the barbecue sauce; applying it generously enhances flavor and helps achieve that desired caramelization on the Smoked Shotgun Shells.
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Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on your smoker’s temperature; too high can result in overly crispy bacon, while too low may leave the filling undercooked.
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Try Alternate Cooking: If you don’t have a smoker, consider baking at 300°F while closely watching the bacon crispness for a similar delicious outcome.
What to Serve with Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Elevate your gathering with delicious accompaniments that complement those smoky, flavor-packed bites.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A fresh and crunchy side dish that balances the richness of the shells while adding a tangy flair. Perfect for cutting through the decadence!
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and slightly charred corn enhances the outdoor barbecue vibe, harmonizing beautifully with the savory flavors of your appetizer.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are great for scooping up any extra barbecue sauce. Their warm, comforting texture is the ideal way to round out your meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing adds a nice contrast to the bold flavors of the shotgun shells, providing a refreshing crunch with every bite.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: These vibrant veggies filled with rice, cheese, and spices can share the spotlight with the shells, offering a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
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Spicy Pickles: Served on the side, these zesty pickles can offset the richness of the bacon and meat, giving your palate a lively kick that keeps you coming back for more.
Pair these delightful sides with your Smoked Shotgun Shells for a memorable meal that will have everyone talking about your culinary skills!
Variations & Substitutions for Smoked Shotgun Shells
Feel free to tweak this recipe to match your taste buds and dietary preferences, transforming these delicious bites into your personal masterpiece!
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Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for turkey to create a leaner, lighter filling while still keeping the flavors bold.
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Cheese Twist: Experiment with cheeses! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers a milder, creamier alternative that melts beautifully.
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Veggie Lovers: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for a hearty veggie boost, bringing added flavor and texture.
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Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini boats instead of manicotti for a fantastic low-carb version that still packs in all the smoky goodness.
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Saucy BBQ: Substitute your favorite barbecue sauce with a tangy mustard-based sauce for a unique flavor profile that truly stands out.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright burst of freshness that complements the rich filling beautifully.
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Bacon Variety: Switch to turkey bacon or even prosciutto for a twist on the classic wrap that caters to different palates and dietary choices.
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Heat Adjustment: For more daring spice, add diced serrano peppers or a few splashes of hot sauce to the filling; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Smoked Shotgun Shells Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect manicotti shells?
Absolutely! When choosing manicotti shells, look for ones without any cracks or broken edges, as these can affect the filling. The shells should feel firm to the touch, and avoid any that have dark spots indicating age. A fresh batch will ensure they hold up well during cooking.
What is the best way to store leftover Smoked Shotgun Shells?
Very simple! Store any leftover Smoked Shotgun Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them to prevent condensation buildup, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Smoked Shotgun Shells, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first arrange the cooked filled and wrapped shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from frozen!
What if my filling is too loose or runny?
No worries! If your filling ends up loose, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or cheddar cheese to help bind it together. Another option is to mix in a small amount of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, which can absorb excess moisture while still being flavorful.
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider for my guests?
Very much so! If you’re serving these Smoked Shotgun Shells to guests, be mindful of common allergens, such as dairy in the cream cheese and cheese. To accommodate guests with dietary restrictions, you could swap these ingredients for dairy-free alternatives. If using sausage, check for gluten-free options or simply opt for a meatless filling to cater to those avoiding meat.
How do I ensure my bacon comes out crispy?
To achieve that perfectly crispy bacon, using enough slices to wrap each manicotti shell well is key. Overlap the slices slightly, and don’t forget to keep an eye on your smoker’s temperature; ideally, you want it between 250°F to 275°F. If the bacon isn’t crisping up to your liking, you can always finish them off under the broiler for a couple of minutes, but be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
Smoked Shotgun Shells: Loaded Bacon-Wrapped Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the smoker to 250°F.
- Mix all filling ingredients in a large bowl until well blended.
- Stuff each manicotti shell from both ends, ensuring no air pockets.
- Wrap the shells in 1-2 slices of bacon, overlapping as needed.
- Brush barbecue sauce on the shells before placing them on a baking sheet.
- Smoke the shells for 60 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Continue smoking for another 60 minutes or until crispy.