Smoked Shotgun Shells bring together savory ground beef, zesty Italian sausage, and a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese, paired with diced onions and jalapenos for a hint of spice. This flavorful mixture is packed into uncooked manicotti shells, each one tightly wrapped in smoky bacon. After brushing with barbecue sauce, the shells are slow-smoked until the bacon crisps and the filling turns irresistibly juicy. The result: an appetizer with a smoky aroma, cheesy filling, and a perfect blend of spice and sweetness. Serve hot and enjoy the combination of textures in each bite.
Smoked Shotgun Shells take all the bold flavors of barbecue and wrap them up in a single irresistible bite. Picture gooey cheese-packed beef and sausage stuffed into pasta shells then wrapped in crispy bacon and slathered in barbecue sauce. This is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game day or any backyard get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd at parties or gatherings
- Smoky cheesy meaty and spicy all in one bite
- No need to boil pasta shells ahead of time
- Can be made ahead then smoked when ready to serve
- I tried these out for our family’s summer BBQ and there were no leftovers—everyone huddled by the smoker waiting for the next batch
Ingredients
- Manicotti shells: They hold up well during smoking and stay perfectly al dente Try to choose sturdy uncracked shells
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and moisture Look for 80 20 for best juiciness
- Hot Italian sausage: Packs in spice and more depth Use fresh bulk sausage that is not overly lean
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives great tang I always grate my own for meltiness
- Cream cheese: Brings extra creaminess and helps bind the filling Choose block-style full fat for smoothest results
- Onion: Finely diced for a subtle sweetness and texture Go for fresh firm onions
- Jalapeno: Adds a gentle heat Remove seeds for less spice or keep them for extra punch
- Slap Ya Mama seasoning: A zesty Cajun blend for the best kick If you cannot find it use a mix of cayenne garlic powder and black pepper
- Garlic powder: Balances and deepens flavor Use fresh and aromatic powder
- Black pepper: Essential background warmth Grind it fresh for best aroma
- Red pepper flakes: For those who love a hint of lingering heat Use fresher flakes for max impact
- Barbecue sauce: Gives sweet smoky glaze and moisture Try to pick a thick rich kind that you love as the flavor comes through boldly
- Bacon: The crispy wrap that finishes it all off Thick-cut holds up better and crisps well
Step-by-Step Instructions
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