Piggy Back Crackers
Piggy Back Crackers are savory, crispy bites featuring bacon-wrapped saltines, perfect as a hearty snack or appetizer for gatherings and casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon slices in half.
- Wrap one piece of bacon around each saltine cracker.
- Place the bacon-wrapped crackers on a broiler pan.
- Bake in a 200°F oven for 2 to 2 1/2 hours until crispy and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning, such as pepper or smoked paprika, before wrapping the bacon around the saltines. If you prefer, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner substitute, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to keep an eye on the crackers during the last half hour to ensure they reach your desired crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon-wrapped crackers make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game days. Serve them alongside a spicy dipping sauce or pair them with a refreshing salad to balance the richness. They also complement hearty dishes like Potatoes Donna or American recipes featuring barbecue for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Piggy Back Crackers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crackers soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Piggy Back Crackers contains roughly 54 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these crackers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped saltines and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through properly.
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
Thick-cut bacon works well for this recipe as it provides a nice balance of crispy texture and flavor. However, regular-cut bacon is also suitable. Just keep in mind that thinner bacon may cook faster, so monitor the crackers closely towards the end of the baking time.
Can I add cheese to the crackers?
Absolutely! For a cheesy twist, you can place a small slice of cheese on top of each saltine before wrapping with bacon. Cheddar or pepper jack adds a delicious flavor that pairs nicely with the salty bacon. Just ensure the cheese doesn’t melt too much during the cooking process.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).