Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese

Category:Appetizers & Snacks

Oh my gosh, have you heard about pig shots? They’ve become a hit in my house! These Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese are not only super fun to make but are also packed with flavor. When I first discovered this recipe, I knew I had to give it a try, and let me tell you – it quickly became a family favorite. They’re perfect for game day or just a cozy night in with my husband while we cuddle with our cat.

Imagine crispy bacon woven around tasty sausage, loaded with melty cheese and a hint of spice! The combination of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness is seriously hard to resist. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up, making them ideal for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out. You can even mix up the fillings based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences! If you’re looking for another delicious treat, you might want to try my loaded potato skins – they’re equally amazing!

Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese

Rich and creamy flavor from a delightful blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar
Crunchy bacon cups that are irresistibly crispy
Perfectly balanced heat from jalapeños, either fresh or pickled
Quick and easy prep, with only 8 ingredients needed
Under 30 minutes from oven to table—ideal for last-minute gatherings
Customizable heat levels to suit your taste with different jalapeño amounts
Great as an appetizer or party snack that will impress your guests!

These pig shots are not just delicious but also a fun and unique twist on traditional appetizers—perfect for sharing and devouring in one bite!

How to Make Oven-Baked Pig Shots with Bacon & Cheese

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, these Oven-Baked Pig Shots are the way to go! They’re cheesy, savory, and oh-so-delicious, making them perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. Plus, who can resist bacon?

What You’ll Need:

Bacon – 10 slices, cut in half. I prefer thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness and flavor.
Jalapeño slices – 10 slices, fresh or pickled. Choose according to your heat preference; pickled adds a nice tang!
Cream cheese – 1 cup, softened. Use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup. Go for a good quality cheddar; it really boosts the flavor!
Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon. A must for that savory kick!
Onion powder – 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Smoked paprika – 1/2 teaspoon. This gives the dish a nice smokiness that pairs perfectly with bacon.
Salt and pepper – to taste. Always taste as you go!
Chopped green onions – for garnish, optional. They add a fresh pop of color and flavor!

The Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready.
Cut each bacon slice in half. Take a half slice and wrap it around a small muffin tin cup to form a little cup shape.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Scoop a spoonful of the cheesy mixture into each bacon cup, filling them generously.
Top each filled bacon cup with a slice of jalapeño for that zing!
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and let cool slightly—don’t burn your tongue!
If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh garnish. Serve warm and enjoy the oohs and aahs!

Feel free to mix things up! Adjust the jalapeño to match your spice level, or try different cheeses or seasonings in the cream cheese mix. Happy cooking!

Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?

Yes, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option! Just keep in mind that turkey bacon doesn’t crisp up quite the same way as pork bacon, so you may need to bake it a little longer to achieve a similar texture.

What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone cheese or cottage cheese blended until smooth. Both will provide a similar creamy texture, but mascarpone will give a richer flavor while cottage cheese will be a bit lighter.

How Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prep the bacon cups and fill them with the cheese mixture ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which keeps them crispy!

More Delicious Bacon Recipes!

If you love bacon, you’re going to enjoy these tasty recipes. Check them out below: