Easy Air Fryer Pig Shots

Air Fryer Pig Shots are the unapologetically bold appetizer you break out when you want everyone to hover around the snack table. Smoky sausage, crisp bacon, and creamy filling come together in one bite that disappears faster than you can make them.

If you’re hunting for an appetizer that gets people talking before they even take a bite, these Easy Air Fryer Pig Shots absolutely deliver.

Bacon, sausage, and a creamy, smoky filling team up to create the kind of bite-sized snack that disappears the second you set the plate down.

They’re quick to prep, wildly satisfying, and perfect for game day, parties, or just because you felt like treating yourself.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Ridiculously tasty — Bacon, sausage, and creamy filling… it’s basically cheat code flavor.
• Air fryer easy — No fuss, no mess, no babysitting a sheet pan.
• Crowd-pleaser status — These vanish at parties faster than you can plate them.
• Customizable — Spice it up, mellow it out, swap the sausage—go wild.
• Perfect little bites — Snack-size, salty, smoky, and built for grabbing with one hand.

Ingredients Needed

• Smoked sausage or kielbasa: Sliced into thick rounds
• Bacon strips: Cut in half for wrapping cups
• Softened cream cheese: For the creamy filling
• Shredded cheddar cheese: For rich cheesy flavor
• BBQ rub or seasoning blend choice: For added flavor

Recipe Variations

• Jalapeño Popper Pig Shots: Stir in diced jalapeños and use pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Maple Bacon Pig Shots: Brush the bacon with maple syrup before cooking for a sweet-smoky combo.
• Ranch Bacon Pig Shots: Add a spoonful of ranch seasoning to the filling for extra tang.
• Buffalo Pig Shots: Mix buffalo sauce into the cream cheese and drizzle more on top.
• Garlic Parmesan Pig Shots: Blend in garlic powder and Parmesan for a rich, savory twist.
• Cajun Pig Shots: Swap in Cajun seasoning and a little hot sauce for bold, no-nonsense flavor.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Pig Shots: Top each cup with a tiny spoonful of pulled pork before air frying.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Pig Shots

Step One: Slice smoked sausage or kielbasa into thick rounds.

Step Two: Wrap each round with a strip of bacon, securing it with a toothpick to form a cup shape.

Step Three: Mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, and BBQ rub or seasonings in a bowl. Fill each bacon-wrapped sausage cup with the cheese mixture.

Step Four: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step Five: Place the assembled pig shots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set cook time for 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the filling is heated.

Easy Air Fryer Pig Shots Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Sausage: Use smoked sausage or kielbasa for maximum flavor and a firm texture that holds up well when wrapped in bacon.
• Keep Bacon Tight: Secure the bacon firmly around each sausage cup with a toothpick so it doesn’t unravel during cooking.
• Room Temperature Filling: Let the cream cheese and cheddar soften before mixing—it spreads easier and melts more evenly in the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange pig shots in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispy bacon on all sides.
• Watch the Time: Depending on your air fryer, 10–15 minutes is usually perfect. Start checking at 10 minutes to avoid overcooked bacon or dried-out filling.

Storing, Freezing, Make Ahead and Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Store cooled pig shots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain texture.
• Freezing: Arrange cooled pig shots in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the pig shots up to 24 hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Wait to cook until just before serving for optimal bacon crispiness.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated pig shots in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through. For frozen pig shots, air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until fully heated and bacon is crispy.

Easy Air Fryer Pig Shots Recipe Faqs

Can I use regular sausages instead of smoked sausage or kielbasa? Yes! You can use any cooked sausage or smoked sausage. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness and type.

Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the pig shots, store them in the fridge, and air fry just before serving for maximum crispiness.

Can I freeze them? Yes, pig shots freeze well. Freeze unbaked or cooked, then reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a twist. Mix and match to suit your taste.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer? Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese is bubbly.

How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping? Secure each bacon strip with a toothpick, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

Are these safe to serve to kids? Yes! Just be sure the filling is not too hot when serving. You can reduce the spice if using a BBQ rub with heat.

Can I make them smaller or larger? Yes, adjust sausage and cheese amounts accordingly. Smaller bites will cook faster, larger ones may need extra time.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Blueberry Cupcakes
• Air Fryer Churro
• Easy Air Fryer Cake Pops
• Air Fryer Smash Cake
• Air Fryer Flourless Peanut Butter Blondies

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