How to Make HOG POGs
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork or sausage, shredded cheese, chopped bacon, breadcrumbs, egg, and all seasonings. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated—avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
3. Shape the POGs
Scoop out about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into compact balls. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Bake Until Juicy and Golden
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the HOG POGs are browned on the outside and cooked through. For extra color, broil for the last 2 minutes if desired.
Optional: Brush lightly with BBQ sauce during the final 5 minutes for a sticky, smoky finish.
5. Rest and Serve
Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and keeps them from falling apart.
Smoking Option (Extra Flavor)
For a true backyard favorite:
Smoke at 250°F (120°C) for about 60–75 minutes
Use hickory or applewood
Finish with a light BBQ glaze if desired
The smoke adds depth and takes these bites to the next level.
Variations to Try
Spicy HOG POGs: Add jalapeños or cayenne
Cheese Explosion: Stuff a cube of cheese in the center
Sweet Heat: Mix honey and BBQ sauce for glazing
Beef & Pork Blend: Use half ground beef, half pork
A Recipe Made for Sharing
HOG POGs aren’t meant to be eaten politely—they’re meant to be grabbed, dunked, and enjoyed with zero hesitation. They represent everything great about comfort food: bold flavor, simple ingredients, and the kind of satisfaction that brings people back for seconds.
Whether you bake them in the kitchen or smoke them outside, one thing’s guaranteed—HOG POGs won’t last long once they hit the table
