Lil Smokies, those delicious little cocktail sausages, have been a party favorite for generations. Whether you’re preparing appetizers for a game day, a holiday gathering, or just a snack for yourself, these tiny sausages are incredibly versatile and easy to cook. In this guide, we’ll explore multiple Lil Smokies recipes, including classic preparations, slow cooker options, and creative twists to elevate this simple snack.
What Are Lil Smokies?
Lil Smokies are mini smoked sausages made from pork, beef, or turkey. They are fully cooked but taste best when heated and coated in a flavorful sauce. They are typically sold in vacuum-sealed packages in the refrigerated section of grocery stores.
Why Are Lil Smokies So Popular?
- Easy to Prepare: They require minimal effort and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The smoky, savory flavor is a hit at parties.
- Versatile: They can be paired with different sauces, wrapped in dough, or used in casseroles.
Classic Lil Smokies Recipe (BBQ Style)
This is the most well-known way to prepare Lil Smokies. The combination of smoky sausages and sweet BBQ sauce makes for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) package of Lil Smokies
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (any brand)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Stovetop Method:
- In a medium saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add Lil Smokies and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Slow Cooker Method:
- Place Lil Smokies in a slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce mixture over them and stir to coat.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Sweet and Spicy Lil Smokies
If you like a mix of sweetness and heat, this recipe is for you.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Sriracha or buffalo sauce)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Mix BBQ sauce, honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan.
- Add Lil Smokies and heat over medium until fully coated and warmed through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fancy touch.
Lil Smokies Wrapped in Bacon (Bacon-Wrapped Smokies)
Bacon makes everything better! These bite-sized treats are crispy, smoky, and irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 1 pound bacon (cut into thirds)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wrap each Lil Smokie with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle brown sugar (and cayenne if using) over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve warm with a dipping sauce like honey mustard.
Lil Smokies in a Blanket (Pigs in a Blanket)
This classic appetizer is a twist on traditional pigs in a blanket.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Roll out crescent dough and cut into small strips.
- Wrap each Lil Smokie with dough and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle seasoning on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with ketchup, mustard, or cheese dip.
Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Lil Smokies
This retro recipe is a surprising yet delicious combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup chili sauce (or BBQ sauce)
Instructions:
- Mix grape jelly and chili sauce in a slow cooker.
- Add Lil Smokies and stir to coat.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
- Serve warm.
Lil Smokies Mac and Cheese Bake
A unique way to serve Lil Smokies by incorporating them into mac and cheese!
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (cooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
- Add shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Mix cheese sauce with cooked pasta and Lil Smokies.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Lil Smokies Skewers with Pineapple
A tropical-inspired appetizer with a sweet and smoky kick.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- Skewers
Instructions:
- Thread Lil Smokies, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper onto skewers.
- Brush with teriyaki sauce.
- Grill or bake at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Lil Smokies Queso Dip
A cheesy dip packed with sausage goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies (sliced)
- 1 (16 oz) package Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
- ½ cup milk
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Lil Smokies and Beans
A hearty, comforting dish that’s great for potlucks.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Lil Smokies
- 2 cans baked beans
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
- Serve as a side dish or main meal.
Tips for the Best Lil Smokies Recipes
- Choose the Right Sauce: BBQ, mustard, or a sweet-and-spicy glaze can enhance the flavor.
- Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop: If you want a hands-off approach, slow cooking works best.
- Crispy or Soft? If you like crispy edges, bake or grill them instead of simmering in sauce.
Final Thoughts
Lil Smokies are one of the easiest and most delicious appetizers you can make. Whether you prefer them classic, wrapped in bacon, or mixed into a cheesy dip, there’s a recipe for everyone. These little sausages are perfect for parties, game nights, or even a quick snack. Try out one (or all) of these recipes and enjoy!
Would you like more detailed variations or pairing ideas for Lil Smokies? Let me know!
