Smoked Shotgun Shells Recipe

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a fun, indulgent twist on traditional stuffed pasta, packed with savory sausage, melted cheese, and crispy bacon. This recipe takes manicotti shells and fills them with a flavorful sausage and cheese mixture, then wraps them in bacon before smoking them to perfection. Finished off with a drizzle of barbecue sauce, these Smoked Shotgun Shells make for a delicious and eye-catching dish that’s perfect for a backyard gathering or a unique dinner treat.

Ingredients

• Manicotti
• Sausage
• Cheese
• Bacon
• Barbecue sauce

Directions

1. Cook the manicotti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, mix in the cheese until well combined and melted.
3. Stuff each manicotti shell with the sausage and cheese mixture, making sure they are fully packed.
4. Wrap each stuffed manicotti with a strip of bacon, ensuring it is tightly secured around the pasta.
5. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the wrapped manicotti shells on the smoker, and smoke them for 45-60 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
6. Remove the Smoked Shotgun Shells from the smoker and drizzle with barbecue sauce before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Sausage Alternatives: You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken sausage for a lighter version of this dish.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to swap the cheese for other varieties such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Barbecue Sauce: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauces—try a tangy mustard-based sauce or a smoky chipotle for a unique twist.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, use a vegetable or plant-based sausage substitute.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Smoked Shotgun Shells in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make Smoked Shotgun Shells ahead of time? Yes, you can stuff the manicotti shells and wrap them in bacon a few hours before smoking. Simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
2. Do I need a smoker for this recipe? While the smoker imparts great flavor, you can also bake the wrapped manicotti in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until the bacon is crispy.
3. Can I use a different kind of pasta? Manicotti is ideal due to its size, but other pasta types like large shells or cannelloni could work as substitutes.
4. What type of sausage should I use? Use a flavorful sausage such as Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or chorizo. Mild or spicy options can be chosen based on your preference.
5. Can I freeze the Smoked Shotgun Shells? Yes, you can freeze them before smoking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Smoke them directly from frozen, adding extra time as necessary.
6. How do I get the bacon extra crispy? Make sure the smoker is preheated and cook the shells long enough for the bacon to crisp up. If necessary, increase the smoker temperature slightly or place the shells directly over indirect heat toward the end of the cooking time.
7. Can I add more fillings? Absolutely! You can add sautéed onions, peppers, or even mushrooms to the sausage mixture for added flavor.
8. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative, but it may not crisp up as well as traditional bacon.
9. What can I serve with Smoked Shotgun Shells? This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
10. Can I adjust the spiciness? Yes, you can adjust the heat by using a spicier sausage or adding hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Smoked Shotgun Shells offer a deliciously unique and smoky take on stuffed pasta, featuring a satisfying combination of sausage, cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving something different, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting textures. Give it a try, and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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