BBQ Shotgun Shells Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Appetizer

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer or snack that combines smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors? These BBQ Shotgun Shells are the ultimate treat! Made with stuffed manicotti shells, wrapped in bacon, and basted with BBQ sauce, they’re cooked to perfection in the air fryer for an irresistible crispy finish. Let’s dive into the recipe and make these crowd-pleasers!

Ingredients:

  • 10 manicotti shells (uncooked)
  • 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix of both)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for basting)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 10 slices of bacon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, shredded cheese, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This filling will be the flavorful core of your shotgun shells.

2. Stuff the Shells:

Take the uncooked manicotti shells and carefully stuff each one with the meat mixture. Use a small spoon or your hands for precision. Be gentle to avoid cracking the shells. Each shell should be fully packed for a satisfying bite.

3. Wrap with Bacon:

Wrap a slice of bacon tightly around each stuffed manicotti shell. Ensure the bacon overlaps slightly at the ends to secure it in place. This step not only adds flavor but also helps keep the filling intact during cooking.

4. Rest:

For best results, place the wrapped shells on a tray or plate and let them rest in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours. This resting period allows the manicotti shells to soften slightly, making them tender and easier to cook.

5. Cook in the Air Fryer:

Preheat your Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (or any air fryer) to 325°F. Arrange the bacon-wrapped shells in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.

6. Baste with BBQ Sauce:

After 20 minutes, brush the shells generously with additional BBQ sauce. Increase the air fryer temperature to 375°F and cook for another 5-7 minutes. This will caramelize the BBQ sauce and crisp up the bacon to perfection.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the BBQ Shotgun Shells from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping and watch them disappear!

Pro Tips:

  • Cheese Options: Experiment with your favorite cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare and wrap the shells a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
  • Grill Option: Don’t have an air fryer? These shells can also be cooked on the grill over medium heat. Just turn them frequently to avoid burning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These BBQ Shotgun Shells are a surefire hit for parties, game-day gatherings, or even as a fun family dinner. The combination of seasoned meat, gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering bite that’s impossible to resist. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer makes cleanup a breeze.

Try these out and let us know how they turn out—they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!