If you're looking to enhance your appetizer game, you can't overlook the versatility of Little Smokies. These mini sausages can transform into a variety of dishes that suit any occasion. Imagine serving Sweet and Spicy Little Smokies, with just the right amount of kick, or indulging in a classic BBQ Glazed version that never disappoints. But that's just the beginning; there's also a cheesy option and even a flaky pastry twist to ponder. Curious about how to make these delicious bites? Let's investigate the top five recipes that will have your guests asking for more.
Sweet and Spicy Little Smokies
Sweet and Spicy Little Smokies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances flavors, making them an ideal appetizer for gatherings or game-day parties. The combination of sweet barbecue sauce and spicy jalapeños creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
These little sausages are easy to prepare and require minimal effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds little smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large slow cooker, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, diced jalapeños, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a uniform sauce.
Add the little smokies sausages to the slow cooker and toss them in the sauce until they're well coated. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are heated through and flavors meld together.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an added kick, consider using spicy barbecue sauce instead of regular barbecue sauce. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of jalapeños or use them sparingly.
These little smokies can also be prepared in advance; simply store them in the fridge after cooking and reheat before serving. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving, and don't forget to keep a napkin handy—things can get a little messy but oh-so-delicious!
BBQ Glazed Little Smokies
BBQ Glazed Little Smokies are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combine the savory flavors of cocktail sausages with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings, family parties, or just a cozy night in, these little bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
The smoky flavor of the sausages pairs beautifully with the rich BBQ sauce, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 packages (14 ounces each) of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the Little Smokies sausages, barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Stir well to coat the sausages evenly in the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
If desired, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker to keep warm for serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture for a bit of tang.
You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce, such as spicy, smoky, or honey-infused, to customize the taste to your liking.
If you want to make these Little Smokies ahead of time, prepare the dish and refrigerate it; simply reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch!
Cheesy Little Smokies Bake
Cheesy Little Smokies Bake is a delightful dish that's perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The combination of savory little smokies enveloped in a creamy, cheesy mixture creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
This recipe isn't only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch as it disappears quickly from the table!
Ingredients:
- 2 packages of Little Smokies (about 14 ounces each)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce until well blended.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
Gently fold in the Little Smokies until they're fully coated with the cheesy mixture.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color.
Extra Tips:
For an added kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the cheesy mixture.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist.
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
Just remember to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Enjoy your Cheesy Little Smokies Bake with some crusty bread or your favorite dipping chips!
Little Smokies in Puff Pastry
Little Smokies in Puff Pastry is a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that's perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering. The combination of savory little sausages wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates a delicious bite-sized treat that's sure to please a crowd. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe proves that you can whip up impressive snacks with little effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of Little Smokies (about 14 ounces)
- 1 package of puff pastry (2 sheets, thawed)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Flour (for dusting)
- Dipping sauce of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches.
Take one Little Smokie and place it in the center of each square, then fold the corners of the pastry over the sausage, pinching to seal tightly. Place the wrapped sausages seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider seasoning your puff pastry with garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs before wrapping the Little Smokies.
You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing, to complement the dish.
If you're making these ahead of time, you can prepare and freeze the wrapped sausages before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you cook them from frozen. Enjoy your delicious little bites!
Honey Garlic Little Smokies
Honey Garlic Little Smokies are an irresistible appetizer that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory depth of garlic. Perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering, these little sausages are quick to make and guaranteed to be a hit. The sticky glaze envelops the smokies, creating a mouthwatering dish that will leave your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14 oz) little smokies sausages
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a medium saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and black pepper over medium heat.
Stir the mixture until it begins to simmer, then add the little smokies to the pan.
Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are heated through and coated in the sticky glaze.
Remove from heat and transfer the smokies to a serving dish.
Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the little smokies in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours before cooking.
This allows the flavors to penetrate the sausages more deeply.
Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness of the dish by adding more or less honey to taste.
If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha can be added to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Enjoy your Honey Garlic Little Smokies!