Introduction

The Bacon Explosion is a legendary barbecue creation that took the internet by storm years ago — and for good reason. Imagine a crispy woven lattice of bacon wrapped around seasoned sausage, stuffed with smoky bacon bits, and brushed with tangy barbecue sauce. Then it’s slowly smoked or baked until it becomes a glorious roll of meaty perfection.

This dish isn’t just food — it’s a spectacle. The moment you slice into it, revealing the swirled layers of sausage and bacon, you’ll know you’ve created something unforgettable.

Why I Love This Recipe

If you’re a bacon lover, this Bacon Explosion Barbecue Roll is an absolute dream come true. What I love most about this recipe is how it takes simple ingredients—bacon, sausage, and barbecue sauce—and transforms them into a spectacularly indulgent, flavor-packed masterpiece. Every bite is smoky, savory, and slightly sweet, delivering a perfect balance of textures and tastes that feels downright irresistible.

The combination of crispy bacon on the outside and juicy, seasoned sausage on the inside creates a culinary experience that’s rich and satisfying. Adding a touch of barbecue sauce ties all the flavors together, giving it a slightly tangy, smoky finish that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend barbecue, game day, or a special occasion, this roll is a showstopper that never fails to impress.

For me, this dish is a must-have because it’s more than just meat wrapped in meat—it’s a bold, indulgent creation that brings excitement and flavor to any meal. The presentation alone is enough to make mouths water, and the taste is even better. Every bite embodies the ultimate comfort food experience, perfect for sharing with friends and family who appreciate hearty, savory indulgence.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

The Bacon Explosion Barbecue Roll isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience for anyone who loves bold, smoky flavors and indulgent comfort food. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Ultimate Bacon Lover’s Dream – Crispy bacon on the outside and savory, juicy sausage on the inside make every bite an irresistible delight.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors – The smoky bacon, seasoned sausage, and tangy barbecue sauce create a harmonious blend that’s rich, savory, and slightly sweet.
3. Show-Stopping Presentation – This roll looks impressive on any table, making it perfect for weekend barbecues, game days, or special gatherings.
4. Simple Ingredients, Maximum Impact – With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe turns ordinary pantry staples into a bold and unforgettable dish.
5. Crowd-Pleaser – Whether you’re serving family, friends, or guests, this dish disappears fast, proving it’s as tasty as it is indulgent.

Trying this recipe guarantees a flavor-packed, satisfying experience that takes classic comfort food to the next level.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) or 1.5 hours (oven)
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Calories: ~620 kcal per serving

Ingredients

Main Roll

• 2 lbs (900 g) thick-cut bacon (about 16–18 slices for weave + 6–8 slices for filling)
• 2 lbs (900 g) pork sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for brushing)
• 1/2 cup barbecue dry rub (divided)

Directions — Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Make the Bacon Weave

1. Lay out 8–9 slices of bacon vertically on a sheet of parchment paper or foil.
2. Weave 8–9 horizontal slices over and under the vertical slices to form a tight, square lattice.
3. Sprinkle the weave lightly with 2–3 tbsp of BBQ rub.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook 6–8 slices of bacon until crisp; chop into small bits.
2. Spread the sausage evenly over the bacon weave, forming a uniform layer about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Sprinkle cooked bacon bits evenly over the sausage.
4. Drizzle with 1/4 cup barbecue sauce and sprinkle with 2–3 tbsp BBQ rub.

Step 3: Roll It Up

1. Starting at one end, carefully roll the sausage layer into a log (using the parchment to help).
2. Place the sausage log at one edge of the bacon weave and roll the weave around it, sealing the seam on the bottom.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon Explosion

Option 1: Smoker Method (Best for Flavor)

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. Place the roll seam-side down on smoker grates.
3. Smoke for about 2 hours, until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Brush with more BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes.

Option 2: Oven Method

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Place the roll on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 1.5–2 hours, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
4. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 20 minutes.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove from heat and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice into 1-inch rounds and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
• Also works sliced on sandwiches or sliders for parties.

Additional Recipe Tips and Variations

• Spicy Kick — use hot Italian sausage or add jalapeños to the filling.
• Cheesy Twist — sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack inside before rolling.
• Glaze Upgrade — try honey-chipotle BBQ sauce for a sweet-heat finish.
• Breakfast Version — swap BBQ sauce for maple syrup glaze and serve with eggs.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil, then plastic wrap, and freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in oven at 325°F until heated through, or slice and reheat in a skillet.

Special Equipment Needed

• Smoker or oven
• Parchment paper or foil
• Meat thermometer
• Wire rack (if baking in oven)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until cooking.

Q2: Does the bacon weave really stay together?
Yes — as it cooks, the bacon shrinks slightly, locking everything in place.

Q3: Can I use turkey bacon?
You can, but it won’t crisp quite as well as pork bacon.

Q4: Is it better smoked or baked?
Smoking gives unmatched flavor, but baking is still delicious.

Conclusion

The Bacon Explosion Barbecue Roll is more than a recipe — it’s a culinary event. The smoky aroma, the crispy bacon crust, the tender sausage inside — it’s a showpiece that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re out on the patio with the smoker going or in the kitchen with the oven, you’ll end up with a dish that turns any gathering into a celebration.