Bacon Appetizers: Irresistible Kielbasa Pig Shots Recipe

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

Picture this: the sun dips low in the sky, and you re ready to host friends for a cozy cookout. You want to impress them while keeping things simple and delicious. That s when these Kielbasa Pig Shots come into play! A delightful blend of crispy bacon, savory sausage, and creamy goodness, they are the ultimate bacon appetizers that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I stumbled upon this easy delight while experimenting with what I had on hand. In just 10-15 minutes in the air fryer, you can have an appetizer that looks elegant but requires minimal effort. The crispy, smokiness of the bacon perfectly complements the juicy kielbasa, while a dollop of cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess you won t forget.

Whether you re lining a buffet table or simply snacking while catching up with friends, these pig shots are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron; it s time to elevate your appetizer game!

Why are Bacon Appetizers a Must-Try?

Deliciously Irresistible: These Kielbasa Pig Shots hit all the right notes with their crispy bacon exterior and creamy interior.

Quick to Prepare: In just 10-15 minutes, you can whip up a batch that s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

Versatile Flavor: Customize your spice blend to suit your taste, making this appetizer adjustable for everyone in your circle.

Impressive Presentation: These bite-sized delights look gourmet without the gourmet effort, making you the star of any event.

Crowd-Pleasing Choice: Whether served at a party or enjoyed during a casual night with friends, they disappear fast, leaving everyone craving more!

Make sure to check out our other exciting bacon appetizer ideas to keep the flavor party going!

Bacon Appetizers Ingredients

For the Pig Shots
Kielbasa or Polish sausage 1 pound, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces; this is the star of the show that provides a hearty bite.
Bacon 8 slices, smoked or thick-cut; choose quality bacon for that crispy, flavorful wrap.
Cream cheese 8 ounces, regular or low-fat; this delightful addition gives each shot a creamy, rich fill.

For the Seasoning
Garlic powder to taste; this adds a savory depth that enhances all the flavors.
Pepper to taste; a dash elevates the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
Cayenne optional for heat; sprinkle in some spice if you like a kick in your appetizers.

For Assembly
Toothpicks essential for holding everything together; look for sturdy ones to support those delicious bites.

Get ready to assemble these addictive bacon appetizers that ll wow your guests and satisfy your cravings!

How to Make Kielbasa Pig Shots

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C). This step ensures the bacon cooks evenly and becomes deliciously crispy.

2. Slice the kielbasa into roughly 1-inch thick rounds. Aim for even pieces so they cook at the same rate and deliver consistent flavor.

3. Wrap each kielbasa slice with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon overlaps a bit to hold the flavor in!

4. Fill the center of each wrapped kielbasa with a generous dollop of cream cheese. This creamy layer will meld beautifully with the flavors as they cook.

5. Season to taste with your chosen spices. Whether you like it savory or zesty, these flavor boosters elevate your bacon appetizers.

6. Arrange the pig shots in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden. This is where the magic happens!

7. Serve hot and enjoy! These delicious bites are best shared warm, but I won t tell if you keep some for yourself!

Optional: Drizzle with a spicy sauce for an extra kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Kielbasa Pig Shots

Fridge: Store leftover pig shots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while the bacon remains slightly crispy.

Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the assembled but uncooked pig shots for up to 2 months. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375 °F (190 °C) for 5-7 minutes. This will help restore the bacon s crispiness, ensuring your bacon appetizers taste fresh!

Expert Tips for Bacon Appetizers

Choose Quality Bacon: The better the bacon, the crispier and more flavorful the Kielbasa Pig Shots will be. Look for thick-cut or smoked varieties.

Even Sizes: Ensure your kielbasa slices are uniform in thickness. This helps them cook evenly, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overdone.

Don t Overfill: When adding cream cheese, don t go overboard. A generous dollop is great, but too much can make assembly messy.

Use Toothpicks Wisely: Ensure the toothpick goes through both the bacon and kielbasa to hold everything together during cooking. This helps avoid any mishaps in the air fryer.

Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with seasonings to suit your taste. Not everyone loves spicy, so adjust the cayenne for the perfect balance in your bacon appetizers.

Air Fryer Tips: Depending on your air fryer, cooking times may vary. Keep an eye on them to ensure your bacon turns crispy without burning.

What to Serve with Kielbasa Pig Shots?

Picture this: your friends are gathered around, laughter fills the air, and the delightful aroma of bacon appetizers wafts through the kitchen, setting the stage for a memorable gathering.

• Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden-brown wedges provide a satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the savory texture of the pig shots.

• Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the cream cheese and bacon, offering a bright contrast that enhances each bite. It adds an extra layer of flavor while keeping things light.

• Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This sweet and tangy dip enhances the smoky flavors of the bacon, creating a delicious contrast that s simply irresistible.

• Grilled Veggie Skewers: Add some vibrant colors and textures to your plate! Grilled veggies provide a healthy option that offers a beautiful, earthy flavor to counterbalance the richness of the pig shots.

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side brings a comforting, familiar taste that pairs wonderfully with any appetizer. The crispy, cheesy layers elevate your meal s overall experience.

• Craft Beer or Spicy Bloody Mary: A good quality beer or a zesty Bloody Mary works exceptionally well, complementing the bold flavors with its own robust personality.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad infused with a zesty vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the savory sausage bites, ensuring your meal feels balanced and satisfying.

Encouraging creativity with your meal, these pairings elevate your bacon appetizers into an unforgettable feast!

Bacon Appetizers Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity with these delicious twists on our Kielbasa Pig Shots!

• Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, yet still crispy option. You ll enjoy a healthier treat without sacrificing flavor!

• Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or dill with the cream cheese for an extra flavor kick. This delightful variation brings freshness and a burst of aroma.

• Spicy Sausage: For those who crave heat, use spicy Italian sausage in place of kielbasa. This substitution adds a wonderful depth of flavor that will excite your taste buds.

• Cheddar Stuffing: Replace cream cheese with sharp cheddar for a uniquely cheesy burst. The melting cheddar complements the smoky bacon beautifully, creating an irresistible blend.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute kielbasa with hearty portobello mushrooms for a delightful meat-free version. The mushrooms provide a satisfying texture while soaking up all the flavors.

• BBQ Glaze: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying for a sweet and tangy glaze. This variation makes each bite even more addictive!

• Maple Bacon: Drizzle a touch of maple syrup on the bacon before cooking for a sweet and savory combo. This twist transforms your pig shots into an unforgettable snack.

• Veggie Blend: Add finely chopped onions or bell peppers within the wrap for added texture and flavor. This little twist brings a delightful crunch to each savory bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Kielbasa Pig Shots are a fantastic make-ahead choice for busy home cooks! You can prepare the pig shots by wrapping the kielbasa slices with bacon and filling them with cream cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Simply arrange them in an airtight container and refrigerate until you re ready to cook. To maintain quality, avoid adding seasoning until just before cooking; this prevents the bacon from becoming soggy. When you re ready to serve, place the pig shots in your preheated air fryer and cook for 10-15 minutes, and you ll have warm, delicious bacon appetizers ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Kielbasa Pig Shots Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best kielbasa for my pig shots?
Absolutely! When choosing kielbasa, opt for quality brands that use natural spices and have a good meat-to-fat ratio for flavor and juiciness. Look for kielbasa that feels firm to the touch and doesn t have any dark spots or blemishes on the casing. Freshness is key always check the expiration date!

What is the best way to store leftover Kielbasa Pig Shots?
For sure! Store the leftover pig shots in an airtight container in the fridge, where they ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors while keeping the bacon slightly crispy. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation from forming!

Can I freeze Kielbasa Pig Shots for future use?
Yes, you can! If you want to prepare ahead of time, assemble the pig shots without cooking them, then wrap each one in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, just cook from frozen in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and delicious.

What should I do if my bacon isn t cooking evenly?
Very common! If you find that your bacon isn t cooking evenly, it s likely due to overcrowding in the air fryer. Ensure there s enough space between each pig shot for hot air to circulate. You can also flip the shots halfway through cooking to promote even crispiness!

Are Kielbasa Pig Shots suitable for different dietary preferences?
Definitely! If you have dietary concerns such as allergies to dairy, you can substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or even a nut-based cheese for a dairy-free version. For those watching their carb intake, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon to reduce fat while still keeping that delicious flavor.

How can I spice up my Kielbasa Pig Shots?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for basic seasonings, feel free to get creative! Adding a touch of smoked paprika or even a spoonful of barbecue sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Consider making a spicy dipping sauce with hot sauce and ranch for an extra kick when serving!