Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a must-try appetizer that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, Italian sausage, and spices, all wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for game day, BBQs, or any gathering, these delicious bites offer a unique twist on traditional stuffed shells. The smoking process infuses them with a deep flavor that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of meat, cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Appetizer: Great for parties, family gatherings, or game nights; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves bacon-wrapped goodies! These will be the highlight of your appetizer spread.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and fillings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Smoked Shotgun Shells, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help you breeze through the preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: This is essential for achieving the smoky flavor that makes these shotgun shells so special.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a stable surface for holding your stuffed shells while they cook.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl ensures you have enough space to mix all ingredients evenly without spilling.

Ingredients

Pasta Base

• 2 8-ounce boxes manicotti shells

Meat Mixture

• 1½ pound ground beef
• 1 pound hot Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 1 jalapeno (finely diced)

Cheesy Filling

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 ounces cream cheese

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Wrapping & Coating

• ⅓ cup barbecue sauce
• (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 is ideal for allowing the flavors to meld while ensuring the bacon crisps up nicely.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except for the bacon and extra barbecue sauce. Ensure that both the ground beef and sausage are raw as they will cook during smoking.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Gently stuff each uncooked manicotti shell from both ends with your meat mixture. Be careful not to leave air pockets inside; this ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed shell with slices of bacon. It’s best to cover both ends completely—this might require using two pieces of bacon per shell.

Step 5: Coat with Barbecue Sauce

Brush additional barbecue sauce generously over both sides of each shell. Place them on a baking sheet as you finish basting all shells.

Step 6: Smoke the Shells

Smoke the shells for 60 minutes. Afterward, flip them over, add more barbecue sauce, and continue smoking for another hour until the bacon is crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, carefully remove the shotgun shells from the smoker. Let them cool slightly before serving—then enjoy these incredible bites!

How to Serve Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a versatile appetizer that can be served in various ways to enhance your gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most out of this delicious dish.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: A classic choice, the smoky flavor complements the shells perfectly.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch adds a nice contrast to the smokiness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like it spicy, hot sauce can elevate the flavors even more.

Serve with Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy celery offers a refreshing bite alongside the rich flavors of the shells.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet carrots balance the savory elements of the smoked shotgun shells.
• Cucumber Slices: Crisp cucumbers provide a light and hydrating side option.

Create a Charcuterie Board

• Cheeses: Add different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for variety.
• Cured Meats: Salami or prosciutto can add more protein and richness to your board.
• Nuts and Olives: These can serve as great nibble options between bites of shotgun shells.

Pair with Beer or Cocktails

• Craft Beer: The hoppy bitterness of craft beer complements the smoky flavors well.
• Whiskey Cocktails: A bourbon-based cocktail can enhance the overall experience with a touch of sweetness.

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How to Perfect Smoked Shotgun Shells

To achieve the ultimate Smoked Shotgun Shells, consider these essential tips that will ensure they are cooked to perfection.

• Properly Stuffing Shells: Ensure you fill each manicotti shell evenly without overstuffing to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
• Maintaining Temperature: Keep your smoker at a steady 250°F for consistent cooking results.
• Basting Frequently: Regularly brush on barbecue sauce while smoking for extra flavor and moisture.
• Using Quality Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for better wrapping and crispier results after smoking.
• Letting Them Rest: After removing from the smoker, let them cool slightly before serving for easier handling.

Best Side Dishes for Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells pair well with an array of side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some top choices to consider when planning your meal.

1. Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the shells.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a hearty side that pairs beautifully with smoky meats.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn provides sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside your shotgun shells.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food favorite brings creamy goodness that everyone loves.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer a classic barbecue feel that complements smoked dishes well.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrients while enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoked Shotgun Shells, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating your smoker can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to 250° before smoking.
• Overstuffing the Shells: Overfilling manicotti shells can cause them to burst during cooking. Stuff them gently, ensuring no air pockets are present.
• Using Low-Quality Bacon: Cheap bacon may not crisp up well and can affect flavor. Choose a good quality bacon for the best results.
• Neglecting to Flip: Failing to flip your shells halfway through cooking can result in uneven crispiness. Remember to turn them after 60 minutes.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Smoking times can vary based on smoker type and outside temperature. Keep an eye on your shells to achieve that crispy perfection.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Wrap individual shells in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Smoked Shotgun Shells

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes; check for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

You might have some questions about making Smoked Shotgun Shells. Here are answers to some common inquiries.

How do I make Smoked Shotgun Shells spicier?

You can add more jalapenos or include hot sauce in the mixture for extra heat.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives if you prefer leaner options.

What other fillings work well with Smoked Shotgun Shells?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for variety.

How long do Smoked Shotgun Shells take to smoke?

The total smoking time is around 2 hours, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Smoked Shotgun Shells are an outstanding appetizer that impresses at any gathering. They’re versatile enough for customization, allowing you to tailor flavors and spice levels according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious treat that everyone will love!