Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a mouthwatering appetizer that will impress your guests at any gathering. These tender manicotti shells are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, Italian sausage, and cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon and infused with smoky barbecue flavor. Perfect for game days, parties, or weekend cookouts, this recipe combines bold flavors with a unique presentation that is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage provides a rich taste that pairs perfectly with the smokiness from the BBQ.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these delicious Smoked Shotgun Shells in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a party with friends, everyone will love these tasty bites.
• Versatile Option: You can customize the stuffing ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
• Impressive Presentation: The unique shape and crispy bacon wrap make these appetizers look as great as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Smoked Shotgun Shells successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures an efficient cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: This is crucial for achieving that authentic smoky flavor that makes these shotgun shells so special.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of the filling ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: It provides a stable surface for placing the stuffed shells while they are being basted with barbecue sauce.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 2 8 ounce boxes manicotti shells
• 1½ pound ground beef
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 1 jalapeno (finely diced)

Seasonings and Sauce

• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ⅓ cup barbecue sauce

For Wrapping

• (2) 16 ounce packages bacon (might need more)
• Additional barbecue sauce for coating

How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 250°F. This temperature will help achieve perfect smoking without overcooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Ground beef
2. Hot Italian sausage
3. Finely diced onion
4. Sharp cheddar cheese
5. Cream cheese
6. Finely diced jalapeno
7. All seasonings

Make sure to mix all ingredients thoroughly; remember not to cook the meat beforehand!

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Gently stuff each uncooked manicotti shell from both ends:
1. Ensure there are no air pockets.
2. Fill until slightly overflowing.

Step 4: Wrap in Bacon

Wrap each stuffed shell with slices of bacon:
1. Cover both ends completely; two pieces of bacon may be needed for thicker coverage.

Step 5: Baste with Barbecue Sauce

Brush additional barbecue sauce over both sides of each shell:
1. Place them on a baking sheet while you continue basting other shells.

Step 6: Smoke the Shells

Place the prepared shells in the smoker:
1. Smoke for 60 minutes.
2. Flip them over after an hour, add more barbecue sauce, and continue smoking for another hour or until the bacon is crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the smoker when finished:
Serve immediately while they’re hot for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells make for an exciting appetizer that can easily steal the show at any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: A classic choice, this sauce complements the smoky flavor of the shells.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the bacon.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, a drizzle of hot sauce elevates each bite.

Serve with Fresh Vegetables

• Veggie Platter: A colorful array of carrots, celery, and bell peppers provides a refreshing crunch alongside the rich flavors.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles can cut through the heaviness and add a zesty touch.

Accompany with Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover BBQ sauce on the plate.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls offer a comforting addition to this hearty appetizer.

Include Drinks

• Craft Beer: The hoppy notes in craft beer pair wonderfully with smoked flavors.
• Sweet Tea: This southern classic balances the savory profile of Smoked Shotgun Shells perfectly.

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How to Perfect Smoked Shotgun Shells

To achieve mouthwatering Smoked Shotgun Shells, follow these simple tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Quality Meat: Choosing fresh ground beef and high-quality Italian sausage ensures a flavorful filling.
• Don’t Overstuff: Stuff manicotti shells gently to avoid bursting during cooking; leave a little room for expansion.
• Bacon Coverage: Wrap each shell thoroughly with bacon; use two slices if necessary for extra crispiness.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on your smoker’s temperature for even cooking—250°F is ideal.
• Baste Regularly: Apply additional barbecue sauce halfway through smoking to enhance flavor and glaze.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing your Smoked Shotgun Shells to rest briefly after smoking helps meld flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Shotgun Shells

When serving Smoked Shotgun Shells, pairing them with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and a tangy contrast that works well with smoked flavors.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and adds heartiness to the meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter enhances your BBQ experience beautifully.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide an excellent flavor profile alongside smoked meats.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort that pairs nicely with the rich shotgun shells.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus introduces a healthy, vibrant touch to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoked Shotgun Shells, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overstuffing the shells: Filling manicotti shells too much can cause them to burst during cooking. Make sure to leave a little space for expansion.
• Using uncooked meat: Some may think they need to pre-cook the meat, but that’s not necessary. Keep it raw for better flavor infusion during smoking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season can result in bland flavors. Ensure you mix all seasonings well for a zesty bite.
• Skipping the bacon wrap: Not wrapping each shell in bacon can lead to dryness. The bacon adds moisture and incredible flavor, so don’t skip this step!
• Inconsistent smoking times: Adhering strictly to the smoking times is crucial. Flipping the shells halfway ensures even cooking and crispiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Smoked Shotgun Shells?

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a delectable appetizer made by stuffing manicotti with seasoned meats and cheese, then wrapped in bacon and smoked until crispy.

How long do I smoke Smoked Shotgun Shells?

You should smoke the shells for about 2 hours total—60 minutes on one side, then flip and smoke another hour.

Can I customize my Smoked Shotgun Shells?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different meats or add other ingredients like peppers or spices based on your personal preference.

What’s the best way to serve Smoked Shotgun Shells?

Serve them hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. They make an excellent finger food at gatherings!

Final Thoughts

Smoked Shotgun Shells are not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors and ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!