If you are on the lookout for a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors and irresistible textures, look no further than the Bacon Bangles: Sausage-Stuffed Onion Rings Wrapped in Crispy Bacon with Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce Recipe. This dish is pure comfort food heaven, delivering the smoky crunch of bacon, the savory depth of breakfast sausage, and the sweet-spicy kick of a maple cracked pepper sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Imagine golden onion rings, generously stuffed with seasoned sausage, then lovingly wrapped in perfectly crisped bacon—all made even better by a luscious dipping sauce that balances sweet and peppery flavors flawlessly. Whether served as a party appetizer or a decadent snack, Bacon Bangles are guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this show-stopping appetizer is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are straightforward yet packed with flavor. Each component plays a vital role: onions provide a sweet and crispy base, sausage adds juicy savory richness, bacon brings smoky crispness, and the dipping sauce ties it all together with a perfect harmony of sweetness and spice.
- 3-4 large yellow onions: Their natural sweetness and firm texture make the perfect rings to stuff and wrap.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Use your favorite variety for that savory, mouthwatering fill that complements the bacon.
- 24 ounces thin-cut bacon: Thin bacon wraps easily and crisps up beautifully to hold everything together.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base in the dipping sauce, balancing the sharpness of pepper.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds just the right amount of sweetness in the sauce to make each bite irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon cracked pepper: Provides a punch of spice and texture that elevates the dipping sauce to perfection.
How to Make Bacon Bangles: Sausage-Stuffed Onion Rings Wrapped in Crispy Bacon with Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and even cooking. Slice your large yellow onions into sturdy rings about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick so they hold their shape well during cooking. Carefully separate the rings for stuffing — this is where the magic begins.
Step 2: Stuff the Onion Rings
Take your breakfast sausage and portion roughly 2 tablespoons per onion ring, stuffing it neatly into the gaps between the inner and outer layers. This creates that deliciously juicy core that surprises you with every bite. Make sure the sausage is evenly distributed to avoid any gaps or uneven cooking.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Now for the fun part. Wrap 2 to 3 slices of thin-cut bacon tightly around each sausage-stuffed onion ring. You’ll want to ensure it’s snug so the bacon crisps up on the outside without unraveling in the oven. Thick bacon won’t wrap as well, so stick to thin slices for the perfect “bangle” effect.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Place each bacon-wrapped onion ring on the foil-lined baking sheet with about an inch of space in between for heat circulation. Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the bacon has beautifully crisped and the sausage is fully cooked. This step guarantees a crunchy, smoky exterior with a succulent filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce
While your Bacon Bangles bake, whip up the iconic dipping sauce by combining 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon cracked pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended. This sauce is the perfect final touch, melding creamy, sweet, and peppery flavors to dip or drizzle on your bangles.
How to Serve Bacon Bangles: Sausage-Stuffed Onion Rings Wrapped in Crispy Bacon with Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To further elevate your Bacon Bangles, consider garnishing them with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A light sprinkle of extra cracked pepper on top adds visual appeal and an extra kick to match the dipping sauce.
Side Dishes
Bacon Bangles pair beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy coleslaw to balance their richness. For a hearty touch, serve alongside cheesy grits or garlic mashed potatoes to turn this appetizer into a full meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, arrange the Bacon Bangles on a large serving platter stacked like a bangle bracelet. Serve the maple cracked pepper dipping sauce in a rustic bowl in the center for easy access. To add variety, you can even skewer a few bangles with handmade cocktail picks to serve as finger food for parties or game days.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
Freezing
Bacon Bangles freeze well! After baking and cooling completely, wrap each bangle individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy crunch, reheat the bangles in a preheated 375-degree Fahrenheit oven for 10-15 minutes or until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it softens the bacon and onion rings, which takes away from the overall texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with spicy Italian sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage depending on your flavor preferences. Just make sure it’s cooked through.
Is thick-cut bacon better than thin for wrapping?
Thin-cut bacon is recommended because it wraps snugly around the onion rings without tearing or overpowering the bite. Thick-cut bacon can be harder to wrap and may not crisp evenly.
Can I make the maple cracked pepper dipping sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce actually tastes better when the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until serving. Just give it a quick stir before using.
Are Bacon Bangles gluten-free?
These bangles are naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free sausage and bacon varieties. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I bake these on a grill instead of an oven?
While the recipe is designed for oven baking, you can bake them on a grill using indirect heat around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the bangles on a foil-lined tray and monitor closely to avoid flare-ups.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the insider tips, you are more than ready to dive into making these sensational Bacon Bangles: Sausage-Stuffed Onion Rings Wrapped in Crispy Bacon with Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce Recipe. It’s a guaranteed hit that blends comforting flavors with exciting textures, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite indulgent treat!
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Bacon Bangles: Sausage-Stuffed Onion Rings Wrapped in Crispy Bacon with Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bangles 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bacon Bangles are crispy, smoky bacon-wrapped onion rings stuffed with savory breakfast sausage, baked to perfection, and served with a sweet and peppery maple cracked pepper dipping sauce. This savory appetizer is perfect for game day or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 large yellow onions
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 24 ounces thin cut bacon
Maple Cracked Pepper Dipping Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cracked pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup and even cooking.
- Prepare Onions: Slice 3-4 large yellow onions into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick rings. Carefully separate the rings to create gaps for stuffing.
- Stuff the Onions: Using about 2 tablespoons of breakfast sausage per onion ring, stuff the sausage into the gaps between the onion rings, creating layers of meat and onion.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap 2-3 pieces of thin cut bacon around each sausage-stuffed onion ring. Ensure the bacon is thin cut, as thick bacon is harder to wrap and cook evenly.
- Arrange and Bake: Place each bacon-wrapped onion ring on the prepared baking sheet with at least a 1 inch gap between each to allow for proper crisping. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bacon is fully cooked and crispy.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While the bangles bake, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon cracked pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth to create a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
- Serve: Drizzle the maple cracked pepper sauce over the bacon bangles or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for a delicious contrast of flavors.
Notes
- Use thin cut bacon for easier wrapping and better crisping.
- Adjust the amount of cracked pepper in the dipping sauce to taste for more or less spice.
- Make sure to space the bacon bangles well on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- These bangles are best served hot and fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a short time to restore crispiness.
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