Introduction
Gathering around delicious food has a way of bringing people together. Whether for game day, a holiday feast, or just a cozy night in, the right dish can make all the difference. One such dish that has become a favorite in many homes is a flavorful combination of smoky sausage and sweet sauce. The blend of barbecue sauce and grape jelly creates a sticky, irresistible glaze that takes these tiny sausages to a whole new level. Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies are not just a delightful appetizer; they are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes this recipe special? For starters, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and sweet grape jelly gives a unique taste that complements the smokiness of the sausages perfectly.
Moreover, these little smokies require minimal prep time, which makes them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. You can throw the ingredients together in a slow cooker, let them simmer, and soon enough, you’ll have a hearty treat ready for your guests.
This recipe is versatile as well. Whether you are hosting a party or looking for a family-friendly meal, these little smokies fit the bill. They are the ideal comfort food that warms hearts and fills bellies, making them a staple at any gathering.
How to Make Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies
Creating the perfect Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies involves a few simple steps. With this easy guide, you’ll have these tasty bites ready in no time. Let’s dive into the process!
Ingredients:
- 1 package of Lil Smokies sausages
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1 cup of grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Directions:
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In a slow cooker or a large pot, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
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Add the Lil Smokies to the sauce and stir to coat them evenly.
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Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through, stirring occasionally. If you prefer them on the stovetop, simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes until they are hot.
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Serve warm, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Each step is quick and straightforward, making this recipe a breeze even for beginner cooks.
How to Serve Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies
Serving Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies can be as creative as you want. These little bites are best enjoyed warm, straight from the slow cooker. You can use toothpicks to make them easy for guests to grab if you are hosting a party.
For a more elegant touch, arrange them on a platter and drizzle some of the sticky sauce over the top. The vibrant colors of the garnished green onions add a refreshing contrast to the rich, dark hue of the sauce.
If serving for dinner, consider pairing these smokies with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad. This way, you create a well-rounded meal that is hearty and satisfying.
How to Store Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Transfer any remaining Little Smokies into an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, you can place them in the microwave or put them back on the stovetop. If you’re using a microwave, heat them in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure they warm evenly. On the stovetop, add a little water or more barbecue sauce to prevent them from drying out.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the cooked smokies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Tips to Make Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies
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Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish largely depends on your barbecue sauce. Opt for a sweet and tangy variety that you enjoy.
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Adjust Seasonings: If you like a little spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix. This will give the dish an extra kick.
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: Patience is key. Cooking on low for several hours allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce.
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Experiment with Texture: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can cook it down a bit at the end. Just be careful not to let it burn.
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Garnish for Appeal: Adding sliced green onions not only enhances the visual appeal but lends a fresh crunch that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Variation
While Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies are delicious on their own, you can also try a few variations for a unique twist.
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Sweet and Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of spicy barbecue sauce to create a balance of sweet and heat.
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Cheesy Smokies: Before serving, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top and allow it to melt. This will add a creamy texture and richness that is hard to resist.
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Using Different Meats: Feel free to explore other types of sausage, like andouille or kielbasa. Each type will add a different flavor profile while still maintaining the essence of the dish.
FAQs
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Can I use a different kind of sausage?
- Yes, you can use various sausages. Turkey or beef sausages can work well. The key is to choose something that will cook properly in the sauce.
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How do I know when the smokies are done?
- When they are heated through and the sauce is bubbling, they are ready to serve. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is at least 165°F.
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Can I make Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare them a day ahead and keep them warm in a slow cooker or refrigerate and reheat them before serving.
Making Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies is a straightforward and enjoyable cooking experience. The combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors creates a dish that is not only pleasing to the palate but also fosters connection over shared meals. Try this recipe today and watch as it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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Sticky Mississippi Little Smokies
- Total Time: 250 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A flavorful combination of smoky sausages coated in a sticky barbecue and grape jelly glaze, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package of Lil Smokies sausages
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1 cup of grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a slow cooker or a large pot, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the Lil Smokies to the sauce and stir to coat them evenly.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through, stirring occasionally. If you prefer them on the stovetop, simmer over low heat for about 30-40 minutes until they are hot.
- Serve warm, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
Choose quality ingredients for the best flavor, adjust seasonings as desired, and don’t rush the cooking process for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg