Cocktail smokies are a party favorite-those little smoky sausages packed with flavor and perfect for snacking. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving a quick, tasty treat, cooking cocktail smokies is super simple and versatile. In this article, I’ll share several easy ways to cook cocktail smokies that will have your guests coming back for more!
What Are Cocktail Smokies?
Cocktail smokies, also known as little smokies or mini sausages, are small, smoked sausages usually made from pork, beef, or a blend. They’re pre-cooked and ready to eat, but heating them up with a delicious sauce or glaze brings out their best flavor. They’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even adding to sandwiches.
Simple Stovetop Cocktail Smokies with Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce
One of the easiest and most popular ways to cook cocktail smokies is to simmer them in a sweet and tangy sauce made from grape jelly and barbecue sauce. This combo creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
– 1 package (about 14 ounces) cocktail smokies
– 1/4 cup grape jelly (classic Concord grape jelly works best)
– 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand)
Instructions
- Place the cocktail smokies, grape jelly, and barbecue sauce in a medium saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat until the mixture just begins to boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the smokies are heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat, let cool a bit, and serve with toothpicks.
This method is quick, requires just three ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Slow Cooker Cocktail Smokies for Easy Entertaining
If you want a hands-off approach that keeps your smokies warm throughout the party, try the slow cooker method. It’s perfect for gatherings when you want to prep ahead.
Ingredients
– 2 packages cocktail smokies
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder to make a flavorful sauce.
- Place the cocktail smokies in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.
- Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the smokies are hot and the sauce is bubbly.
- Keep on warm during the party and serve with toothpicks.
This recipe is great for making in advance, and the smokies stay deliciously saucy and warm for hours.
Oven-Baked Cocktail Smokies with Brown Sugar Glaze
Baking smokies in the oven with a sweet glaze is another fantastic way to cook them, especially if you want a slightly caramelized finish.
Ingredients
– 1 package cocktail smokies
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cocktail smokies in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the smokies.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the smokies are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
This method gives you a sweet and tangy appetizer with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
BBQ-Style Baked Cocktail Smokies
For a smoky, grilled flavor, you can bake your cocktail smokies with barbecue sauce in two stages:
- Bake the smokies on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F for about 25 minutes until they start to brown and crisp.
- Remove from oven, coat with your favorite barbecue sauce, then bake again at 350°F for another 20 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
These smokies are perfect served as appetizers with toothpicks or even in sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Cocktail Smokies Every Time
– Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor profile-sweet, spicy, smoky, or tangy.
– You can double or triple recipes easily for larger crowds.
– Garnish with chopped parsley or crumbled cooked bacon for a fancy touch.
– Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking and less mess.
– Try adding a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
– If you’re short on time, the stovetop grape jelly and BBQ sauce method is the fastest and most foolproof.
Wrapping It Up
Cooking cocktail smokies is quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you simmer them in a sweet sauce, slow cook them for a party, or bake them with a glaze, these little sausages are sure to be a hit. Try these methods and find your favorite way to enjoy this classic appetizer!