Little smokies in BBQ sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. These bite-sized sausages smothered in a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce are easy to make and always disappear fast. Whether you use a slow cooker or stovetop, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy hosts who want a tasty appetizer without the fuss.
What You Need: Ingredients for Little Smokies in BBQ Sauce
To make this classic appetizer, gather these simple ingredients:
– Little Smokies: About 1 to 1.5 pounds of mini cocktail sausages (Hillshire Farm is a popular brand).
– BBQ Sauce: 1 to 2 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s or homemade works great).
– Brown Sugar: ½ cup to add sweetness and balance the tang.
– Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon for depth of flavor.
– Optional: A dash of hot sauce or garlic powder for a little extra kick.
You can also swap brown sugar with grape jelly for a different sweet twist, or try other sauces like chili or teriyaki for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Little Smokies in BBQ Sauce
1. Combine the Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl or directly in your slow cooker, mix the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. If you like, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to boost the flavor.
2. Add the Little Smokies
Place the little smokies into the sauce mixture and stir well to coat every sausage evenly. If cooking on the stovetop, you can add any juices from the sausage package for extra flavor.
3. Cook to Perfection
– Slow Cooker Method: Cover and cook on low for about 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce well distributed. Once cooked, keep them on the warm setting until serving.
– Stovetop Method: Simmer the mixture over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring often. This will thicken the sauce and let the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the little smokies directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish. Toothpicks make them easy to snack on at parties!
Tips and Variations for Perfect Little Smokies
– Make it Your Own: Try swapping BBQ sauce for chili sauce, sweet and sour, or teriyaki for a fun twist.
– Sweetness Swap: Use grape jelly instead of brown sugar for a fruity sweetness.
– Keep Warm: Use a slow cooker on the warm setting or a chafing dish to keep your little smokies hot during gatherings.
– Double Up: This recipe is easy to double or triple for larger crowds.
– Homemade BBQ Sauce: For a smoky, sweet sauce made from scratch, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, and spices like smoked paprika and chili powder.
Why Little Smokies in BBQ Sauce Are a Party Favorite
– Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes stovetop or a couple of hours in a slow cooker.
– Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and pre-cooked sausages for convenience.
– Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect finger food that’s both savory and sweet.
– Versatile: Great for potlucks, game days, holidays, or casual get-togethers.
– Make Ahead: Can be prepared in advance and reheated without losing flavor.
Little smokies in BBQ sauce are a no-fail appetizer that brings people together with their irresistible taste and simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Enjoy your delicious little smokies and watch them disappear in no time!