Introduction
Grilling is an essential pastime for many, and what better way to elevate your BBQ experience than with delicious sausage boats? These savory treats combine the robust flavors of Italian sausage with a creamy, cheesy filling and crispy bacon, turning a simple ingredient list into a mouthwatering dish. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or even an everyday feast, let’s dive into the details of this tasty recipe.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 mild Italian sausage links
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely diced
10 slices bacon
Toothpicks
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 5 servings
The following recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. With its combination of zesty flavors and crispy textures, these sausage boats are a guaranteed hit. Be ready to serve them fresh off the grill for the best experience! Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sausages
Slice each sausage lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling.
Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely diced jalapeño peppers until well blended.
Stuff the Sausages
Evenly distribute the cheese mixture into the pocket of each sausage, pressing gently to fill.
Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each stuffed sausage with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks to keep the bacon in place during cooking.
Grill the Sausage Boats
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the bacon-wrapped sausages on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and cook for approximately 45 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are cooked through.
Serve
Remove the toothpicks before serving. Enjoy your sausage boats hot off the grill.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
These sausage boats can be served as a main dish or an appetizer and pair well with a refreshing salad.
Storage
Leftover sausage boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the sausage boats in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
Spice Level
Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your taste preference. Alternatively, you can use other peppers or omit them for a milder version.
Cook techniques
Preparing Sausages
Slice each sausage carefully to create a pocket that can hold the filling without cutting all the way through.
Making the Filling
Combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeño peppers in a mixing bowl, ensuring an even blend for a rich flavor.
Stuffing the Sausages
Fill the pocket of each sausage with the cheese mixture, pressing down gently to make sure it is adequately filled.
Wrapping with Bacon
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed sausage, securing the ends with toothpicks to maintain the shape during cooking.
Grilling the Sausage Boats
Preheat the grill to medium heat, then cook the bacon-wrapped sausages over indirect heat for about 45 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are thoroughly cooked.
Serving
Carefully remove the toothpicks after grilling and serve the sausage boats hot for the best taste experience.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute mild Italian sausage with other types, but the flavor and cooking time may vary.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as alternatives, though they will slightly alter the texture and taste.
How can I make these spicier?
Increase the amount of jalapeño peppers or add in some crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for extra heat.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausages and filling ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill.
Is there an alternative to grilling these sausages?
Yes, you can bake the wrapped sausages in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until the bacon is crispy and sausages are cooked through, about 30-35 minutes.
Conclusion
The bacon-wrapped sausage boats are a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the smoky flavor of bacon, the savory taste of Italian sausage, and the creamy, spicy filling of cheese and jalapeños. This combination is sure to be a hit at any gathering, providing an irresistible appetizer or main course option.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the same cream cheese and cheddar filling to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Replace sausages with chicken breast pieces, stuff with the cheese mixture, wrap in bacon, and grill or bake.
Jalapeño Poppers
Fill halved jalapeño peppers with the cheese mixture, wrap in bacon, and cook on the grill until crispy.
Cheesy Meatballs
Combine ground beef with the cheese mixture, form meatballs, wrap in bacon, and bake until golden.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Serve alongside to balance the richness of the sausages with fresh, grilled corn topped with butter and spices.
