HOG POGs

by

🛒 Ingredients (Makes ~24 POGs)

The Core Mix

1 lb ground pork (or spicy pork sausage—reduce salt if using seasoned sausage)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup cooked bacon, finely chopped

½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers for extra richness)

1 large egg (binder)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp salt (adjust if using salty sausage)

Optional Upgrades

BBQ sauce (brush on last 5 mins for sticky glaze)

Diced jalapeĂąos or Âź tsp cayneye (for heat)

Cheddar cubes (stuff inside before rolling)

Dry BBQ rub (sprinkle before baking)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or foil + spray).

2. Mix Gently

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.

Use your hands or a spoon to mix just until combined.

→ Don’t overwork—dense POGs = sad POGs.

3. Roll with Confidence

Scoop 1.5 tbsp portions (a cookie scoop works great!).

Roll into tight, compact balls—they’ll hold shape better.

Place on baking sheet, 1 inch apart.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake 22–25 minutes, until:

→ Deep golden brown

→ Internal temp reaches 160°F

Optional: Broil 1–2 mins for extra crispness, or brush with BBQ sauce last 5 mins.

5. Rest & Serve

Let rest 3–5 minutes (juices redistribute).

Serve warm—with toothpicks, if entertaining!

💡 Pro Tips for Next-Level POGs

Use cold meat: Easier to shape, less greasy.

Drain bacon well: Excess fat = soggy POGs.

Cheese hack: Freeze cheddar 10 mins before shredding—less clumping!

Air fryer option: 375°F for 12–15 mins, shaking halfway.

Smoker method: 225°F for 45–60 mins over applewood—next-level flavor!

🥓 Serving Ideas That Wow

Game day: Skewer with pickles for mini sliders

Appetizer platter: Nestle among olives, cheese cubes, and crackers

Meal prep: Serve over rice with BBQ drizzle

Brunch: Top with fried egg and hollandaise

Kid lunch: Pack with ranch for dipping

❤️ Why These POGs Belong at Your Table

HOG POGs are more than party food—they’re hospitality in bite form.

They say: “I’m glad you’re here. Eat. Stay. Relax.”

No fancy plating. No stress. Just bold, satisfying, shareable joy—straight from your kitchen to theirs.

💛 Final Thought

Great cooking isn’t about perfection.

It’s about showing up with something delicious—even on your busiest days.

So go ahead. Mix a batch.

Watch them vanish.

And maybe—just maybe—hide two in the back of the fridge for yourself. 😉

You’ve earned it.