When the cravings for something savory and satisfying hit, these oven-baked shotgun shells come to the rescue! Picture this: crispy bacon wrapping around creamy, cheesy goodness, all nestled inside tender manicotti shells. It’s a dish that brings together the comfort of hearty flavors and easy preparation—perfect for impressing friends at your next potluck or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in.
I stumbled across this recipe while experimenting with what to do with an abundance of manicotti shells in my pantry. The delightful blend of seasoned ground beef and zesty Italian sausage, alongside the hint of barbecue sauce, creates a mouthwatering experience that leaves everyone in the room reaching for more. Plus, they bake to perfection, making your kitchen smell heavenly while requiring minimal effort!
So, grab your apron and get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these easy, crowd-pleasing shotgun shells that are sure to become a household favorite!
Why are Shotgun Shells the Ultimate Appetizer?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory ground beef, zesty Italian sausage, and creaminess of cheese makes every bite a flavor explosion.
Crispy Perfection: Wrapped in crispy bacon, these shells offer a satisfying crunch that complements the rich filling.
Easy Preparation: With a straightforward process, these appetizers can be made with minimal kitchen skills, perfect for chefs of all levels!
Versatile Satisfaction: Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients like shredded chicken or different cheeses for a personalized twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: These shotgun shells are sure to impress at any gathering, leaving guests clamoring for the recipe!
Elevate your appetizer game by serving these alongside delicious dipping sauces, like ranch or barbecue sauce, for an extra flavor boost!
Shotgun Shells Ingredients
Get ready to whip up the ultimate appetizer!
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For the Pasta
• Manicotti Shells – Structure and presentation; can substitute with lasagna noodles or other pasta if needed. -
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Main protein source; lean ground beef recommended for a healthier option.
• Hot Italian Sausage – Adds spiciness and flavor depth; mild sausage can be used for less heat.
• Onion – Provides aromatic flavor; shallots or green onions are acceptable substitutes.
• Colby Jack Cheese – Creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor; Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can be substituted.
• Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and binds the filling; can replace with ricotta for a different texture.
• Jalapeno – Introduces heat and flavor; use less or omit for a milder taste.
• Slap Ya Mama Seasoning – Enhances overall seasoning; any Cajun seasoning will work as a substitute.
• Garlic Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh minced garlic could also be used.
• Black Pepper – Adds spiciness; white pepper can be used as an alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat; can be omitted for no spice. -
For the Wrap
• Bacon – Provides a crispy, indulgent wrap and flavor; turkey bacon may be used for a lighter version. -
For the Glaze
• Barbecue Sauce – Adds sweetness and sticky glaze; any BBQ sauce can be used, or a homemade version for custom flavor.
These shotgun shells are bound to be a hit, so gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Shotgun Shells
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to catch the drippings.
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, hot Italian sausage, finely diced onion, Colby Jack cheese, cream cheese, jalapeno, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
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Stuff Shells: Carefully stuff each uncooked manicotti shell from both ends, making sure there are no air pockets. Pack the filling in gently but firmly.
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Wrap in Bacon: Take 1-2 slices of bacon and wrap each shell snugly, ensuring that the bacon covers the shell completely. This will give it a delicious crispy exterior.
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Add Barbecue Sauce: Brush additional barbecue sauce over the bacon-wrapped shells, ensuring they are generously coated. Place them on the prepared wire rack.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. After that, carefully flip the shells, add more barbecue sauce, and bake for an additional 60-70 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These shotgun shells are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—ground beef, Italian sausage, cheeses, and seasonings—up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can stuff the manicotti shells and wrap them in bacon, then refrigerate the assembled shells for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain quality, make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply uncoil the foil and bake as directed—your delicious appetizers will taste just as fresh and flavorful without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Shotgun Shells
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Fridge: Store leftover shotgun shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for another tasty meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shotgun shells in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 15 minutes, ensuring they warm through without drying out.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the shotgun shells ahead of time and freeze before baking. Just add extra baking time if cooking from frozen later!
Expert Tips for Shotgun Shells
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Pre-Prep Helps: Soaking manicotti shells in warm water for about 30 minutes can help with easier stuffing, making the process smoother.
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Don’t Overstuff: Avoid packing in too much filling; leave a little room for expansion during baking, ensuring that the shells cook evenly.
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Crispier Bacon: For extra crispiness, consider broiling the bacon-wrapped shells for the last few minutes of cooking for that perfect golden brown finish.
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Check Temp: Always verify that your stuffed shells reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
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Flavor Variation: Experiment with different spice blends in the filling to create unique, personalized shotgun shells that cater to your taste buds!
What to Serve with Oven Baked Shotgun Shells?
Elevate your meal and create a delightful spread that compliments the rich flavors of these bacon-wrapped gems.
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Crispy Fries: These golden fries offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the savory shotgun shells and becomes an instant favorite.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up any leftover barbecue sauce, enhancing your meal’s indulgent experience.
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Coleslaw: A tangy, fresh coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the bacon and beef filling wonderfully.
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Stuffed Jalapenos: Enhance the heat by serving spicy stuffed jalapenos alongside, perfect for those who crave an extra kick of flavor.
For a cozy finish, why not end with a creamy dessert? Cheesecake Bites provide a sweet contrast to the savory shotgun shells and keep your guests reaching for just one more!
- Iced Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet, iced tea is a perfect drink pairing that cools down the palate between bites of those flavorful shells.
With these delightful sides, your gathering will not only be filled with laughter but also delicious memories around your table!
Shotgun Shells Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these exciting twists and tips!
- Chicken Twist: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey for a lighter yet flavorful option that still packs a punch.
- Spicy Kick: Swap out Colby Jack for pepper jack cheese to channel that creamy heat that makes every bite irresistible.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the filling for a bright, aromatic lift that balances the richness beautifully.
- Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and fill the shells with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Sweet & Smoky: Use a smoky chipotle sauce instead of traditional barbecue sauce for a unique depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
- Cheesy Explosion: Incorporate a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or feta into the filling for an unforgettable cheesy experience.
- Cajun Flavor Boost: Mix in some Cajun seasoning along with the filling ingredients for a bold and spicy southern flair.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute manicotti shells with gluten-free pasta to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family without losing any flavor!
Shotgun Shells Recipe FAQs
What type of manicotti shells should I use for shotgun shells?
You can use traditional manicotti shells, which provide a sturdy structure and a delightful texture. If you can’t find them, lasagna noodles or another type of tubular pasta can also work. Just make sure the pasta is large enough to accommodate the filling.
How should I store leftover shotgun shells?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, they’ll stay fresh and ready to indulge in later. I often find that reheating them in the oven preserves their texture and flavor best!
Can I freeze shotgun shells, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze shotgun shells, pack them tightly in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen by adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What are some troubleshooting tips for cooking shotgun shells?
If you notice that your bacon doesn’t crisp up as much as you hoped, try broiling the shells for the last few minutes of baking. This will help achieve that golden-brown, crispy finish you’re aiming for! Also, ensure the filling isn’t overstuffed to allow even cooking.
Are shotgun shells safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
While these shotgun shells are delicious for human consumption, keep in mind that they contain ingredients such as onion and garlic, which can be harmful to pets. If you or someone has food allergies, make sure to substitute ingredients like cheese or sausage with allergy-friendly alternatives to cater to their needs.
Can I make shotgun shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells in advance. After assembling, just place them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. For longer prep, tightly wrap them and freeze—just add extra cooking time if baking from frozen later!
Savory Shotgun Shells: Easy Bacon-Wrapped Appetizers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil and a wire rack on top.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, hot Italian sausage, finely diced onion, Colby Jack cheese, cream cheese, jalapeno, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly.
- Stuff each uncooked manicotti shell from both ends, ensuring no air pockets and packing the filling in gently.
- Wrap each shell snugly with 1-2 slices of bacon, ensuring full coverage.
- Brush additional barbecue sauce over the bacon-wrapped shells and place them on the wire rack.
- Bake for 60 minutes, then flip the shells, add more barbecue sauce, and bake an additional 60-70 minutes until the bacon is crispy.