Looking for a tasty and simple appetizer for your next party? Little smokies recipe are your answer. These Smoked Sausages are loved by all and are easy to make, perfect for hosts.
Mini Sausages are great because they can be served in many ways. They’re perfect for any party, whether it’s a casual hangout or a fancy event. These sausages are always a favorite.
Key Takeaways
- Easy to prepare and serve
- Versatile and can be served in various ways
- A crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- Perfect for both casual and formal events
- A great addition to your party food menu
What Are Little Smokies?
Little Smokies are a favorite at many parties. But, have you ever wondered what they are? These small, smoked sausages are also known as cocktail sausages. They are a hit for appetizers and snacks.
Origin and Popularity of Cocktail Sausages
These Mini Sausages started in the United States. They are loved for their taste and ease of use. You’ll find them at parties, gatherings, and as a quick snack.
Types and Brands of Little Sausages Available
There are many types and brands of Party Sausages out there. Little Smokies by Hillshire Farm and Cocktail Sausages by Lil’ Smokies are popular. You can choose from original, BBQ, and cheese flavors.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
The nutritional value for 12 links (approx. 134g):
Calories: 410–450 kcal
Total Fat: 36–40g
Saturated Fat: 12–14g
Cholesterol: 85–95mg
Sodium: 1300–1450mg
Total Carbohydrates: 4–6g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 14–16g
Iron: 4–8% of Daily Value (DV)
Calcium: 2–3% of DV
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly by brand (e.g., beef, turkey, or cheddar-stuffed versions). Always check the package label for exact data or you can check it here.
Essential Little Smokies Recipes Everyone Should Know
They’re easy to make and can be flavored in many ways. This makes them perfect for any event.
Classic BBQ variation Smokies Recipe
The classic BBQ Sausages recipe is loved by many. It’s simple and always a crowd-pleaser. You need these delicious baby sausages, BBQ sauce, and a slow cooker.
Cook the sausages in the slow cooker with BBQ sauce. Let them heat up and get coated in the sauce.
The Famous Grape Jelly variation Smokies
The grape jelly variation smokies are a favorite. They mix sweet and savory flavors. You’ll need these bite-sized sausages, grape jelly, and BBQ sauce.
Ingredient Measurements and Proportions
For the grape jelly version, you’ll need:
- 1 (16 ounce) package of little wieners
- 1 cup of grape jelly
- 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
To make the grape jelly smokies, follow these steps:
- Place the smokies in a slow cooker.
- Mix the grape jelly and BBQ sauce in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the smokies.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours until heated through.
3-Ingredient Sweet and Savory Variations
Try the 3-ingredient sweet and savory recipes for more options. They’re easy to make and let you experiment with flavors.
Chili Sauce Combination
For a spicy twist, mix little smokies with chili sauce and brown sugar.
Brown Sugar and Mustard Option
Mix little smokies with brown sugar and mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor.
| Recipe | Main Ingredients | Cooking Time |
| Classic BBQ Little Smokies | Little Smokies, BBQ Sauce | 2-3 hours |
| Grape Jelly Little Smokies | Little Smokies, Grape Jelly, BBQ Sauce | 2-3 hours |
| Chili Sauce Combination | Little Smokies, Chili Sauce, Brown Sugar | 2-3 hours |
| Brown Sugar and Mustard Option | Little Smokies, Brown Sugar, Mustard | 2-3 hours |
How to Cook these Little Smokies Recipe in Different Appliances
You can cook little smokies in various kitchen appliances. This makes them perfect for any event. We’ll show you how to cook them in a crockpot, on the stovetop, and in the oven.
Crockpot Little Smokies Recipe Method
Cooking finger food sausages in a crockpot is easy and doesn’t require much effort. It’s great for parties or big gatherings.
Timing and Temperature Settings
For crockpot variation, cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
Tips for Even Cooking
Stir the little smokies now and then. This helps them cook evenly.
Stovetop Preparation Techniques
Cooking tiny sausages on the stovetop is quick and flexible. You can heat them up fast or simmer them slowly.
Quick Heating vs. Slow Simmering
For fast cooking, use medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes. For a deeper flavor, simmer on low for 30 minutes.
Oven-Baked
Baking these delicious party appetizers in the oven is another great option.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
| Cooking Method | Time | Temperature |
| Crockpot | 3-4 hours (low), 1-2 hours (high) | Low/High |
| Stovetop | 10-15 minutes (quick), 30 minutes (simmer) | Medium-High/Low |
| Oven | 20-25 minutes | 300°F (150°C) |
By following these guidelines, you can cook little smokies perfectly in your preferred appliance.
Creative Little Smokies Recipes Variations for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a formal event, creative little smokies recipes can elevate your appetizer game. These versatile bite-sized sausages can be adapted in numerous ways to suit various tastes and dietary requirements.
Cheesy Little Smokies Recipe Options
For cheese lovers, incorporating cheese into your bite-sized sausage appetizer can add an extra layer of flavor. Try making a cheesy sauce to coat the sausages or wrapping them in cheese-stuffed crescent rolls. The result is a rich, satisfying appetizer that pairs perfectly with mains like our Cottage Cheese Egg Bake or White Chicken Enchiladas.
Spicy Variations for Heat Lovers
If you enjoy spicy foods, consider adding a kick to your little smokies. You can achieve this by tossing them in a spicy BBQ sauce or adding diced jalapeños to the mix. For an extra spicy kick, try using hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free Little Smokies Recipe Adaptations
For guests with gluten intolerance or sensitivity, it’s easy to adapt little smokies recipes to be gluten-free. Use gluten-free BBQ sauce, and when wrapping little smokies in dough, opt for gluten-free alternatives. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty appetizers.
To give you a better idea of how these variations compare, here’s a summary table:
| Variation | Description | Dietary Consideration |
| Bacon-Wrapped | Little smokies wrapped in bacon and baked until crispy | Contains gluten, not suitable for gluten-free diets |
| Pigs in a Blanket | Little smokies wrapped in croissant or biscuit dough | Typically contains gluten; can be adapted to be gluten-free |
| Cheesy Options | Little smokies coated in cheesy sauce or wrapped in cheese-stuffed dough | Can be adapted to be gluten-free |
| Spicy Variations | Little smokies tossed in spicy BBQ sauce or with added jalapeños | Can be gluten-free if using gluten-free BBQ sauce |
| Gluten-Free Adaptations | Little smokies prepared with gluten-free ingredients | Gluten-free |
Serving and Presentation Ideas for Your Little Smokies
These Bite-Sized party appetizers are a hit at parties. With these serving ideas, they’ll be the main attraction. These little smokies also pair wonderfully with a full meal like Pepper Stake, turning a simple appetizer into a complete feast
Best Dipping Sauces and Accompaniments
The right dipping sauce can really boost the flavor of your little smokies. Favorites include BBQ sauce, honey mustard, and teriyaki sauce. You can also offer pickles, onion rings, or toothpicks with mini flags for a fun twist.
- BBQ Sauce
- Honey Mustard
- Teriyaki Sauce
- Sweet and Sour Sauce
Creative Serving Containers and Displays
How you serve your little smokies can make a big difference. Try using mini cast-iron skillets, chafing dishes, or hollowed-out bread loaves as serving containers . Adding fresh herbs or edible flowers can also add a splash of color.
Pairing Little Smokies Recipe with Other Party Foods
Little smokies pair well with many party foods. Try them with cheese and crackers,
vegetable sticks with dip, or mini quiches. This way, your guests will enjoy a variety of tastes and textures.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing your little smokies ahead of time can make your party planning easier. Cook them, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat when needed.
Reheating Methods That Maintain Flavor
When reheating your little smokies, it’s key to keep their flavor and texture. You can reheat them in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker. Covering them helps keep them moist and flavorful.
By using these serving and presentation ideas, you’ll create a memorable and tasty experience for your guests. Whether you’re an experienced host or new to hosting, these tips will help you make your little smokies a hit.
Conclusion
Little smokies are a hit at social events. Their ease of making and versatility make them a favorite. They’re perfect for any party, big or small.
These sausages appeal to everyone because they can be made in many ways. You can try classic BBQ or sweet and savory flavors. Plus, their small size lets you add your favorite toppings.
As shown in this article, you can make little smokies in many ways. From crockpots to ovens, they’re always delicious. They’re easy to add to your party menu and impress your guests.
Adding little smokies to your next event is a smart choice. They’re a crowd-pleaser and easy to customize for your party.