Why Make This Recipe
Smoked Shotgun Shells are a fantastic way to enjoy delicious flavors and a smoky twist. They combine savory meats, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon all wrapped in jumbo pasta shells. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or having a casual dinner, these shells are sure to impress your guests. They are also fun to make and can be a great dish to enjoy while socializing.
How to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
Ingredients:
- 15 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb hot Italian sausage
- 28 jumbo pasta shells
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon strips (enough to wrap each shell)
- BBQ sauce (for brushing)
Directions:
- Preheat the smoker to 250°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, hot Italian sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Carefully fill each jumbo pasta shell with the meat mixture.
- Wrap each stuffed shell with a bacon strip, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Place the wrapped shells in the smoker and cook for about 2 hours or until the bacon is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
- Optional: Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from the smoker, let cool slightly, and serve.
How to Serve Smoked Shotgun Shells
These Smoked Shotgun Shells are best served warm right after they come out of the smoker. They can be a main dish or a hearty appetizer. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or extra BBQ sauce, for added flavor.
How to Store Smoked Shotgun Shells
To store any leftovers, let the cooked Smoked Shotgun Shells cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Smoked Shotgun Shells
- Make sure to use jumbo pasta shells, as standard-sized shells won’t hold the filling well.
- Experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings to create your own flavor combinations.
- If you aren’t a fan of bacon, consider using prosciutto or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat mixture. Another variation is to add different types of sausage or use ground turkey for a leaner option.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these Smoked Shotgun Shells ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the shells and fill them, then refrigerate before smoking. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold.
Q: What type of smoker is best for this recipe?
A: You can use any type of smoker, whether it’s electric, charcoal, or wood pellets. Just keep the temperature steady at 250°F for best results.
Q: Can I freeze Smoked Shotgun Shells?
A: Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
