Description

Smoked Shotgun Shells are a sensational culinary delight that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable barbecue experience. These stuffed manicotti shells, filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and cream cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, deliver rich smoky flavors with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or family nights, they promise to be the star of your next cookout, leaving your guests craving more.

Ingredients

Scale

12 manicotti shells
1 lb ground beef or sausage
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 thick-cut bacon strips
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder

Instructions

Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
In a bowl, mix ground meat, cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the meat mixture without overstuffing.
Wrap each shell tightly with bacon strips and secure them on a smoker-safe rack.
Place the shells in the smoker for about 1 hour until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Brush with BBQ sauce halfway through smoking for added flavor.
Let rest briefly before serving alongside extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 stuffed shotgun shells (180g)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: You can customize these shells by using different meats like turkey or chicken. For added heat, consider mixing jalapeños into the filling. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the oven at 350°F.