Little Smokies Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Party Favorite
Introduction
Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer, bringing a savory, smoky flavor to your gatherings with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a casual game night or preparing a holiday feast, these bite-sized sausages, combined with flavorful sauces, never fail to impress.
For crafting the perfect BBQ sauce, check out Perfect BBQ Sauce.
What Are Little Smokies?
Little Smokies are small, cocktail-style smoked sausages. They are versatile, quick to prepare, and adapt to a variety of flavors. From BBQ to spicy to sweet glazes, they shine in countless recipes. They’re perfect for slow cookers, stovetops, or baked dishes.
Learn more about slow cooker techniques at Best Slow Cooker Tips.
Ingredients
Classic Little Smokies in BBQ Sauce
- 2 packs of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup grape jelly
Sweet and Spicy Variation
- Add 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
Teriyaki Glaze Version
- ¾ cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ cup pineapple chunks (optional)
Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
- 1 lb bacon, cut into thirds
- ¼ cup brown sugar for coating
Step-by-Step Recipe
Slow Cooker Preparation
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 2–3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop Method
- Heat BBQ sauce and grape jelly in a pan over medium heat.
- Add Little Smokies and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Baked Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
- Wrap each sausage with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Coat with brown sugar and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
Creative Variations
- Honey Mustard Smokies: Combine Dijon mustard, honey, and a touch of lemon juice.
- Cheesy Smokies: Top with melted cheddar cheese after baking.
- Spicy Korean Smokies: Toss with gochujang and sesame oil for a spicy kick.
- Cranberry-Glazed Smokies: Replace BBQ sauce with cranberry sauce for holiday flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a slow cooker to keep warm during events.
- Pair with toothpicks for easy eating.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or sesame seeds for presentation.
Looking for another crowd-pleasing dish? Explore Dorito Chicken Casserole.
FAQs
1. Can I make Little Smokies ahead of time?
Yes, cook them in advance and reheat in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Little Smokies?
Yes, freeze them in their sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
4. Are there vegetarian alternatives?
You can use plant-based cocktail sausages and follow the same recipes.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Crockpot Ham and Green Beans: A slow-cooked dish perfect for a hearty meal.
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Another dish for creamy comfort food lovers.
- Dorito Chicken Casserole: A crunchy and cheesy casserole recipe.
Conclusion
Little Smokies are a guaranteed hit at any gathering, offering endless flavor possibilities and easy preparation. From classic BBQ to adventurous Korean-inspired glazes, these mini sausages can be tailored to suit any occasion. Give them a try and watch them disappear from the serving platter in no time!
