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There’s something strangely delightful about transforming a humble can of SPAM into a gourmet dish that will astonish your family and friends. Picture this: the rich aroma of sweet and smoky spices wafting through your kitchen as cubes of SPAM slowly turn into crispy, caramelized burnt ends, capturing all the essence of traditional BBQ without the stress.

I first experimented with this recipe during a weekend gathering when I realized I needed to impress my guests without breaking the bank. The result? A crowd-pleaser that not only satisfies cravings but also sparks joy and nostalgia. These Budget-Friendly Smoked Spam Burnt Ends are perfect for a casual dinner, yet elegant enough for a party appetizer.

In just a few hours, you’ll have tender bites that burst with flavor, featuring that perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. So, grab a few cans from your pantry, and let’s elevate this pantry staple into something extraordinary!

Why Choose Spam Burnt Ends for Your Next Meal?

Deliciously Affordable: Using canned SPAM, this recipe is easy on the wallet without sacrificing flavor.

Smoky Perfection: The sweet and smoky rub infuses the SPAM with unforgettable depth.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have gourmet burnt ends ready to impress in just a few hours.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bites are perfect for gatherings; guests won’t believe it’s just SPAM!

Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite BBQ sauce or spice blend, making it uniquely yours.

Nostalgic Twist: Enjoy the familiar taste of SPAM transformed into a succulent BBQ treat. Dive into this mouthwatering adventure and discover how simple pantry ingredients can create a memorable meal!

Spam Burnt Ends Ingredients

For the Burnt Ends
• Low Sodium SPAM (4 cans, 12 ounces each) – The star of this dish, transforming into tender, smoky bites.

For the Rub
• Sweet and Smoky Rub (¼ cup) – This blend adds a delicious layer of flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite BBQ rub.

For the Glaze
• BBQ Sauce (2 cups) – Essential for that sweet and tangy finish; low-sugar or homemade varieties work wonderfully.
• Honey (3 Tablespoons) – Enhances sweetness and glaze consistency; maple syrup is a delightful alternative.
• Brown Sugar (3 Tablespoons) – Adds depth and caramelization; coconut sugar can be a flavorful substitute.

How to Make Spam Burnt Ends

Preheat the smoker to 250°F. Ensuring the temperature is just right will allow the SPAM to absorb that lovely smoky flavor during cooking.
Cube the SPAM into 1-inch pieces and place them in a foil pan. This size helps each piece to cook evenly and transforms beautifully in the smoker.
Sprinkle the Sweet and Smoky rub over the SPAM cubes, tossing until they’re evenly coated. This rub is the magic that adds smoky complexity and enhances the taste.
Arrange the cubes on a wire rack in a single layer. Spacing them out allows the smoke to circulate freely, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Smoke for 1 hour until the SPAM darkens and begins to crisp. You’ll see the edges develop a lovely golden hue, hinting at the glorious flavors to come.
Mix BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar in a bowl while smoking. This glaze will add a deliciously sweet finish that complements the smoky SPAM perfectly.
Combine the smoked SPAM with the sauce in the foil pan after the hour is up. Gently toss to coat all the pieces before sealing in that flavor.
Return the pan to the smoker for another hour, or until the glaze thickens. You’ll know they’re done when they look glossy and sticky, a true sign of deliciousness.

Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Spam Burnt Ends Variations

Unlock your creativity and discover how to make these burnt ends uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute honey with maple syrup to maintain sweetness without any dairy ingredients.
Add the earthy touch of maple to the glaze and watch your friends rave about the flavor twist!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or chili powder into the rub for an extra layer of heat.
This fiery addition elevates the smoky flavor, making these burnt ends a daring choice for spice lovers!
Smoky Maple: Use a maple-flavored BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky finish that adds a delicious depth.
The combination of flavors dances on your palate, making every bite irresistible!
Vegetarian Option: Swap SPAM for diced eggplant, marinated and grilled for a hearty alternative.
You won’t miss the meat in this smoky twist, delivering a satisfying crunch and flavor.
Fruit-Infused: Add diced pineapple or peach to the glaze for a fruity, sweet tang that brightens each bite.
This variation brings a tropical charm, perfect for summer gatherings or BBQs!
Herbaceous Touch: Toss in finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the rub for an aromatic boost.
These herbs enhance the flavor profile and create an inviting fragrance that fills your kitchen.
Crispy Finish: Broil the finished burnt ends for a few minutes for an irresistibly crispy texture on the outside.
This added crunch contrasts beautifully with the tender interior, making every piece delightful!
Sweet Heat: Mix in some sriracha or spicy BBQ sauce to add balanced heat and sweetness to the glaze.
This combination offers a great flavor explosion, making it a hit at any gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Spam Burnt Ends

Fridge: Store your Spam burnt ends in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals or snacks.

Freezer: If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place the burnt ends in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Add extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist and delicious.

Serving Tips: For the best taste, enjoy your Spam burnt ends soon after making, but these storage tips will ensure they remain tasty even later!

What to Serve with Spam Burnt Ends?

Create a feast that delights the palate while celebrating the savory sweetness of burnt ends.

Creamy Coleslaw:
A cool, crunchy slaw complements the smoky sweetness beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast with every bite. Dress it with a tangy vinegar-based dressing for an extra zing!
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
Sweet and smoky corn pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of burnt ends, adding a delightful char and sweetness to your plate. Serve it slathered in butter and sprinkled with a hint of chili powder for a twist!
Baked Beans:
The hearty sweetness of baked beans rounds out the meal with their rich, savory undertones, making each bite of SPAM burnt ends even more satisfying—a true comfort food classic.
Garlic Bread:
Crispy garlic bread is a fantastic side that not only offers great texture but is perfect for mopping up any leftover BBQ sauce. The buttery, herb-infused flavor enhances the overall experience.
Pickles and Jalapeños:
A side of tangy pickles or spicy jalapeños adds an extra kick, balancing the sweet with their acidity, and delighting your taste buds with each bite.
Iced Tea or Lemonade:
A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the rich flavors perfectly. Both drinks provide a sweet, cool contrast to the warmth of the SPAM burnt ends.
Potato Salad:
Creamy potato salad adds a classic touch to your spread, offering a comforting base that contrasts delightfully with the smoky richness of the burnt ends.

Expert Tips for Smoky Spam Burnt Ends

Cube Size Matters: Cut SPAM into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and optimal flavor absorption during smoking. Smaller or larger cubes may not cook uniformly.
Keep Them Separate: Ensure the SPAM cubes are spaced apart on the rack for proper smoke penetration and even cooking. Cubes touching can lead to uneven textures.
Monitor Temperature: SPAM is pre-cooked, but using a meat thermometer ensures it’s warmed through to your liking. Aiming for about 165°F will give you that ideal texture.
Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add extra spices to the glaze for a unique twist on these Spam burnt ends.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
Perfect Serving: Serve the finished Spam burnt ends with toothpicks for an easy appetizer or alongside your favorite sides for a delightful meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Budget-Friendly Smoked Spam Burnt Ends are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cube the SPAM and toss it with the Sweet and Smoky rub up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze (BBQ sauce, honey, and brown sugar) up to 3 days ahead, keeping it covered in the fridge to maintain its flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy the crispy, smoky delights, simply follow the smoking instructions, starting from step 5 after you’ve combined the SPAM with the sauce. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal with minimal day-of effort, ensuring that the burnt ends stay just as mouthwatering!

Spam Burnt Ends Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right SPAM for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using low sodium SPAM. It enhances the flavor without being overly salty, allowing the rub and glaze to shine through. Be sure to check the cans for any dents or damage before purchasing to ensure the best quality.

How should I store leftover Spam burnt ends?
To keep your Spam burnt ends fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. For reheating, adding a splash of BBQ sauce can help bring back that moist texture.

Can I freeze Spam burnt ends?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months! Wrap the burnt ends tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, remove from the freezer the night before and let them thaw in the fridge. When ready, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, adding extra sauce to keep them juicy.

What should I do if my Spam burnt ends are too dry?
If you find your Spam burnt ends are a bit dry, don’t worry! Toss them in a bit of warm BBQ sauce, and this will help rehydrate and flavor them beautifully. When smoking, ensure to use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for around 165°F to keep that perfect texture.

Can I make this recipe for a gathering with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe can be easily adapted for different dietary needs. If you have guests who are avoiding sugar, consider using a sugar-free BBQ sauce and omitting the brown sugar. Always check labels to ensure that they meet specific dietary requirements or allergies.

What if I want to change the flavor profile?
Very simply! You can experiment with different spice blends or BBQ sauces. For a spicier kick, incorporate cayenne or smoked paprika into your rub. Alternatively, you could try using teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ for an Asian twist on these savory bites.