Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Sausages

Precook the bacon to eliminate shrinkage. To do this, lay out the bacon in a single layer on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Put it into a cold oven, then turn oven on to 400 F. Set the timer for 12 minutes and bake. Then pull the pan out and remove bacon to a paper towel to drain grease. Let bacon cool before proceeding (this step can be done a day or two ahead of time).

Cut the bacon in half at the center. Wrap half a slice of bacon around each sausage link. Arrange the sausages side by side on a large baking sheet lined with foil. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar (optional).

If desired, you can make these ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days, then bake as directed.

Bake at 425 F for 13-15 minutes, until heated through and bacon edges are crispy.

Spread BBQ sauce on a serving platter, then top with the hot bacon-wrapped sausages. Serve warm.