The Flavor Profile of Smoked Shotgun Shells

The filling inside Smoked Shotgun Shells is where all the magic happens. The combination of ground beef and hot Italian sausage creates a rich and hearty base that’s both savory and spicy. The sausage adds a kick, while the beef keeps things hearty and satisfying. The sharp cheddar cheese offers a tangy bite, while the cream cheese gives the filling a creamy, smooth texture that holds everything together.

For added depth and heat, a finely diced jalapeno is included in the filling, giving each bite a subtle yet noticeable spiciness. Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper round out the flavor profile, making the filling not only savory but also robust and well-seasoned. The final touch is a drizzle of barbecue sauce, which adds sweetness and tanginess, balancing the richness of the meats and the smoky bacon wrapped around the shells.

The bacon plays a crucial role in this dish, as it crisps up perfectly while smoking, adding a salty, savory crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft filling and tender manicotti shell. The combination of the smoky flavor from the bacon and the smoky notes from the smoker results in a truly irresistible dish.

How to Prepare Smoked Shotgun Shells

Preparing Smoked Shotgun Shells is relatively straightforward, though it requires a bit of time and attention to detail to achieve the perfect result. The first step involves making the filling, which is a combination of ground beef, hot Italian sausage, diced onion, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, jalapeno, and a few spices. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful, creamy filling that is ready to be stuffed into the manicotti shells.

Stuffing the manicotti shells can be a little tricky, but it’s important to ensure that the filling is packed tightly inside to avoid any air pockets. Once the shells are filled, they are wrapped in bacon slices, ensuring that the ends are fully covered. This not only adds flavor but also helps the shells hold their shape while smoking. After brushing the shells with a bit of barbecue sauce, they are placed on a baking sheet and are ready to go into the smoker.

Smoking the shells is the next crucial step. The shells are smoked at a low temperature of 250°F for about two hours, with a flip and additional barbecue sauce halfway through. The smoking process infuses the bacon and filling with a rich, smoky flavor, while the bacon crisps up to create a satisfying crunch.

The Smoker: Key to Success

The success of Smoked Shotgun Shells heavily relies on the smoker. The low and slow smoking technique helps to enhance the flavors, allowing the bacon to crisp up perfectly without burning and ensuring the filling remains tender and juicy. It’s important to keep the smoker at a consistent 250°F throughout the smoking process. This gradual cooking method not only deepens the flavors but also ensures the bacon renders its fat properly, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the filling moist.

If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill set up for indirect heat, but the best results are achieved with a dedicated smoker. The key is the infusion of smoke that melds with the spices and the bacon, giving the shells their unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Information for Smoked Shotgun Shells

Each serving of Smoked Shotgun Shells is relatively moderate in calories, providing 288 kcal per serving. With 24g of carbohydrates and 13g of protein, they are a good balance of energy and satisfying protein. The fat content is 15g, with 7g of saturated fat. The bacon adds richness, while the cheeses contribute to the overall fat content, making this a decently indulgent snack.

Smoked Shotgun Shells also offer a small but notable amount of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A (268 IU), calcium (80mg), and iron (1mg), making them not only a delicious treat but a source of some essential nutrients. Of course, due to the higher fat content, they are best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday snack.

Serving Suggestions for Smoked Shotgun Shells

Smoked Shotgun Shells are best served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack for gatherings. Their size makes them easy to grab and share, perfect for passing around at a party or serving at a tailgate. Since they are already full of flavor, they pair beautifully with simple side dishes like a fresh salad, potato wedges, or coleslaw to balance out the richness.

These smoked shells are also ideal for pairing with a cold drink. Consider serving them with beer, especially a crisp lager or pale ale, which pairs well with the smoky, spicy flavors of the dish. For something non-alcoholic, a chilled iced tea or lemonade can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bacon and cheese.

If you want to elevate your Smoked Shotgun Shells even further, consider adding a dipping sauce to accompany them. A creamy ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even an extra side of barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor and add an additional layer of creaminess or tang.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a versatile dish that works for almost any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a casual get-together, a big game day, or a family gathering, these shells will surely be a hit. They are the perfect combination of fun and flavor, offering a unique way to enjoy the smoky, savory goodness of barbecue in an appetizer format.

The smoky aroma that fills the air while the shells cook in the smoker is enough to entice anyone into the kitchen, making these shells a wonderful conversation starter. Their bold flavors and satisfying texture make them a standout at any event, and their interactive nature makes them perfect for sharing among friends and family.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Fun Treat

Smoked Shotgun Shells are an incredibly flavorful and fun way to enjoy a smoked treat. The combination of ground beef, hot sausage, cheese, bacon, and barbecue sauce stuffed into manicotti shells is nothing short of indulgent. Their crispy bacon exterior and smoky, savory filling make them a must-try appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a unique snack, Smoked Shotgun Shells will undoubtedly be a hit with your guests. With the perfect balance of flavors, they offer a deliciously unforgettable experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.