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Crispy Bacon Explosion Roll Recipe with Juicy Sausage Center Made Easy

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A savory bacon weave wrapped around a juicy sausage center, baked to crispy perfection. Perfect for brunch, BBQs, or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound thick-cut bacon strips
  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage (seasoned or plain)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: chopped green onions or jalapeños
  • Optional: pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar

Instructions

  1. Lay out 8 to 10 strips of bacon side by side on parchment paper, slightly overlapping. Weave additional strips perpendicularly to create a tight 12×12 inch bacon mat.
  2. In a bowl, combine the pork sausage with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly. Fold in cheese or extras if using.
  3. Form the sausage mixture into a firm log about 10 inches long and 3 inches in diameter. Place it lengthwise in the center of the bacon weave.
  4. Roll the bacon weave tightly around the sausage log, tucking in the ends to seal. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and brush with olive oil.
  6. Remove plastic wrap and place the roll seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush the top with barbecue sauce.
  7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until bacon is crispy and sausage reaches 160°F internal temperature. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching carefully.
  8. Let the roll rest for 10 minutes before slicing into 1-inch thick rounds and serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure sausage reaches 160°F for safety. Chill the roll before baking to maintain shape. Broil briefly at the end for extra crispiness but watch closely to prevent burning. Adjust cook time if bacon is thinner. Variations include spicy sausage, cheese-stuffed centers, or grilling instead of baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon explosion, bacon weave, sausage roll, BBQ recipe, game day food, brunch recipe, comfort food