Pig Shots are little bundles of happiness wrapped in bacon! These tasty bites usually feature juicy sausages or cocktail wieners nestled inside a flaky dough, all baked until golden and irresistible. The smoky, savory flavors pair perfectly with the crisp outer crust, making them a total crowd-pleaser.
I love making Pig Shots for gatherings because they’re simple to prepare and always disappear fast. My favorite trick is to serve them with a variety of dipping sauces — like mustard, barbecue, or a spicy ketchup — so everyone can customize each bite just the way they like.
Whenever I bring Pig Shots to a party, they become the star of the snack table, sparking smiles and happy conversations. They remind me of fun weekend afternoons with friends when no one wants to be stuck in the kitchen for long but still wants something delicious to munch on.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: Fresh scallops are best for that tender, juicy bite. If scallops aren’t available, try large shrimp or small chicken bites for a similar effect.
Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon works well. Thicker slices give a meatier bite but may need more cooking time. For a lighter option, turkey bacon can work, but watch cooking times.
Brown Sugar & Spices: Brown sugar adds a nice caramelized sweetness. If you prefer less sweet, reduce it or swap with maple syrup for a different flavor. Smoked paprika adds warmth; paprika or chili powder can be used instead.
How Do I Get Bacon Crispy Without Burning the Scallops?
Getting the bacon perfectly crispy while keeping scallops tender can be tricky. Here’s how I manage it:
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air flow and even cooking around each Pig Shot.
- Wrap bacon snugly around scallops to avoid loose ends burning quickly.
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then watch closely if you broil at the end, as bacon can burn fast.
- Rest the Pig Shots a few minutes after baking; they firm up slightly and the flavors settle.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven and Baking Sheet – I find these easy to use for even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Wire Rack (optional) – Helps air circulate for extra crispy bacon and prevents sticking.
- Small Bowl – Perfect for mixing the brown sugar seasoning.
- Toothpicks – To secure the bacon around the scallops and keep everything in place.
- Cooking Tongs – Easy for placing and removing the Pig Shots from the oven without burning your fingers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use Shrimp or Chicken – For a different protein, try wrapping shrimp or small chicken pieces instead of scallops.
- Sweet & Spicy – Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper with the seasoning mix for some heat.
- Maple Glaze – Drizzle with maple syrup halfway through baking for extra sweetness.
- Cheese & Herbs – Sprinkle a little shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs like parsley after baking for added flavor.
How to Make Pig Shots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 12 slices of bacon (regular or thick-cut)
For the Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Extras:
- Toothpicks, for securing bacon
- Optional: Hot sauce or maple syrup for drizzling
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Add a few extra minutes if you decide to broil at the end for extra crispy bacon. In all, plan for approximately 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Seasoning Mix:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack over it for better air circulation. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Wrap the Scallops:
Take each cleaned and dry scallop and wrap a slice of bacon tightly around it. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon if needed, so it stays in place while cooking.
3. Add the Sweet and Spicy Seasoning:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the bacon-wrapped scallops. Gently press it in so it sticks well to the bacon.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the wrapped scallops on your baking sheet or wire rack, making sure they don’t touch. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are fully cooked (opaque and firm). If you want extra crispy bacon, you can switch your oven to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Let Cool and Serve:
Remove the Pig Shots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, drizzle with hot sauce or maple syrup to add a little extra kick or sweetness.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Pig Shots warm as delicious bite-sized appetizers or party snacks. They’re sure to be the star of any gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for Pig Shots?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight and pat them dry before wrapping with bacon. This helps prevent extra moisture and ensures even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Scallops?
If scallops aren’t available, large shrimp or small pieces of chicken breast work great as alternatives. Just adjust cooking time slightly based on the protein you choose.
How Should I Store Leftover Pig Shots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Prepare Pig Shots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Wrap the scallops in bacon and season them, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.