Are you looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Lil Smokies recipe with a homemade grape jelly BBQ sauce is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. It's incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers. This recipe is a delicious blend of sweet and savory, offering a unique twist on a classic appetizer. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly this dish comes together and how much everyone loves it!
Ingredients:
For the Lil Smokies:
- 1 (14-ounce) package Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the grape jelly, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer the sauce:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the jelly is completely melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Lil Smokies:
- Add the Little Smokies to the saucepan and gently stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
Simmer until coated:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Lil Smokies are heated through and coated in the delicious BBQ sauce.
Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the Lil Smokies warm, using toothpicks for easy grabbing. They are fantastic as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun addition to a game-day spread.
Tips for the Best Lil Smokies:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked Lil Smokies can become dry. Keep a close eye on them while simmering to ensure they are heated through but still juicy.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar or grape jelly. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the Lil Smokies before serving.
- Slow cooker option: For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through.
Variations:
- Spicy Lil Smokies: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
- Honey BBQ Lil Smokies: Substitute honey for the brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Bourbon BBQ Lil Smokies: Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the sauce for a sophisticated twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
This recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. It’s a quick dinner idea, a fantastic healthy meal option (when enjoyed in moderation), and an excellent addition to any gathering. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!