Little Smokies are these tiny smokey sausages that always show up at get togethers, birthdays or just cause you want a snack. They’re small, they taste good, and you can cook em a bunch of ways so they fit any party. You can dunk em in BBQ sauce, grape jelly, hot sauce or pretty much whatever you like. They’re simple, quick, and people always grab seconds.
History of Little Smokies
Back in the 1950s in America, people started selling bite-sized sausages called cocktail weiners. They was cheap and easy to make, so they became a hit at social events. Over the years folks changed recipes and added sauces till they got what we now call Little Smokies. Today they’re more than a snack—they’re a symbol of casual fun and family gatherings.
Why Little Smokies are Perfect for Entertaining
Cooking for a crowd can be stressful, but Little Smokies takes the edge off. You just toss them in a slow cooker, bake em in the oven or heat em on the stove top. It only takes minutes and you dont have to stand in the kitchen all night. Plus, you can mix up the flavors—sweet, spicy or savory—to please different tastes.
Want a sweet treat? Simmer them in grape jelly and BBQ sauce. Crave something hot? Toss em in buffalo sauce. No matter the occasion—game day, holiday party or family dinner—they fit right in and keep everyone munching happily.
Essential Ingredients for Little Smokies Recipe
Here’s what you need to make a classic batch of Little Smokies:
- Little Smokies: Look for gourmet or regular cocktail sausages at your grocery store.
- Sauces: Pick a combo like BBQ sauce, grape jelly, buffalo sauce or teriyaki sauce.
You can also add:
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika can boost flavor
- Sides: Serve with sliced baguette, veggies or extra dips to round it out
Step-by-Step Little Smokies Recipe
Ingredients List
- 2 pkgs Little Smokies (about 14 oz each)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preparation
- Grab a slow cooker or a baking dish
- Have a mixing bowl ready for sauces
Cooking Instructions
Slow Cooker
- Mix BBQ sauce and grape jelly in a bowl till smooth
- Put Little Smokies in slow cooker, pour sauce over them
- Cover and cook low 4-6 hrs or high 2-3 hrs, stir once in a while
Baking in the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Whisk BBQ sauce and grape jelly together
- Place sausages in a baking dish, pour sauce over them
- Bake uncovered 25-30 mins, check halfway so they bake even
Stovetop
- Warm a skillet over medium-low heat with Little Smokies
- Pour sauce mixture, cover and simmer 10-15 mins, stir occasionally
Serving Suggestions
- Serve right from the slow cooker or dish with toothpicks
- Sprinkle parsley on top for color and a bit of freshness
- Add dips like ranch or honey mustard for extra fun
Cooking Tips and Advice
- Watch the time or they can dry out
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in fridge up to 3 days
- Reheat in slow cooker or microwave so they stay juicy
Variations on Little Smokies Recipes
Different Flavor Profiles
- Sweet: BBQ sauce + grape jelly is classic and tangy
- Spicy: Toss in buffalo sauce or spicy teriyaki for heat
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap for turkey sausages or low-fat dogs
- Make your own sauce to cut sugar and salt
Fun Twists
- Wrap each in bacon before cooking for an extra savory bite
- Serve with different dips like sriracha mayo or honey mustard
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are Little Smokies?
They’re bite-sized cocktail sausages that make party snacks easy.
Can you make Little Smokies ahead of time?
Yes, cook them early and reheat when guests arrive.
How long do Little Smokies last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
What can I serve with Little Smokies?
Dips, bread, veggie platters or chips all work great.
Are Little Smokies gluten-free?
Most are, but always check the package for any gluten ingredients.
Conclusion
Little Smokies keep winning at parties because they’re easy, tasty and you can switch up the flavors any way you want. Try this recipe or make your own twist—either way your friends and family will be asking where they can get more.
little smokies Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or saucepan
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 serving dish
Ingredients
- 28 ounces little smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Add the little smokies sausages to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce mixture.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once heated through, remove the pan from the heat.
- Transfer the little smokies to a serving dish and serve warm.
- For extra flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before serving.
- If desired, keep the little smokies warm in a slow cooker for serving at parties.
