If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any occasion, BBQ Little Smokies are the way to go. These bite-sized sausages smothered in rich BBQ sauce are a guaranteed hit at parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make BBQ Little Smokies with easy-to-follow steps and some helpful tips to make your snack irresistible.
What Are Little Smokies?
Little Smokies are small, fully cooked cocktail sausages, usually made from beef, pork, or chicken. They’re already cooked, so the main goal when preparing them is to heat them through and coat them with flavorful sauce. Their size and smoky taste make them ideal for appetizers and finger foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients for classic BBQ Little Smokies:
– 24 to 28 ounces of Little Smokies (beef, pork, or chicken)
– 1 to 1½ cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
– ½ cup brown sugar (or grape jelly as a sweet alternative)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Optional: a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
Some recipes also suggest adding ingredients like ketchup, maple syrup, molasses, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a splash of bourbon for extra depth, but the above basics will get you started perfectly.
How to Make BBQ Little Smokies: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. This helps keep the process smooth and stress-free.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a medium saucepan or crockpot, combine the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. If you like it spicy, add a few drops of hot sauce here.
3. Add the Little Smokies
Add the Little Smokies to the sauce and stir to coat them evenly. If you’re using a crockpot, you can add the sausages without their packaging juices to avoid excess liquid.
4. Cook and Simmer
– Stovetop method: Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
– Crockpot method: Cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or on high for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally and keep warm until serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is thick and the Little Smokies are heated through, transfer them to a serving dish. They’re perfect on their own or with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Tips and Variations to Try
– Swap the sweetener: Instead of brown sugar, try grape jelly for a fruity twist.
– Change the sauce: Use chili sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or teriyaki for different flavor profiles.
– Make pigs in a blanket: Wrap Little Smokies in crescent roll dough for a fun variation.
– Keep warm for parties: Use a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep them hot throughout your event.
Why Are BBQ Little Smokies So Popular?
Their convenience and versatility make Little Smokies a favorite. They’re already cooked, so prep time is minimal, and the BBQ sauce adds a sweet, tangy, and smoky flavor that appeals to many. Plus, they’re easy to serve and share, making them a perfect party appetizer.
Nutritional Note
Little Smokies are small but rich in flavor and calories. A serving of about five sausages with sauce can have around 200 calories, with a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates mainly from the sauce’s sugar content. Keep this in mind if you’re serving a crowd with varied dietary needs.
BBQ Little Smokies are a simple, delicious appetizer that anyone can make with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, these savory sausages will be the star of your next gathering.
Enjoy your cooking and happy snacking!