Are you looking for a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious dinner recipe that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together? Look no further! These little smokies recipes are guaranteed to become a family favorite. They're incredibly versatile, adaptable to different tastes, and require minimal cooking time, making them ideal for busy weeknights. This recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic appetizer, transforming it into a satisfying and flavorful main course. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-ounce) package of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (we recommend a smoky or sweet and spicy variety)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
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Prep the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering process deepens the flavor profile of the sauce.
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Add the Little Smokies: Add the Little Smokies to the simmering sauce. Gently stir to coat the sausages evenly.
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Cook and Glaze: Continue to simmer the sausages in the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and coated in a rich, sticky glaze. The longer you simmer them, the more the flavors will infuse into the sausages.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the Little Smokies from the saucepan and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. These are fantastic served with crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Little Smokies:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space for the sausages to simmer evenly in the sauce. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or a touch of honey for extra sweetness.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before adding the sausages.
Variations:
- Spicy Little Smokies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory Little Smokies: Incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
- Teriyaki Little Smokies: Replace the BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce for a unique Asian-inspired flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on the BBQ sauce used)
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. These little smokies recipes are quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and best recipes for those seeking simple homemade cooking. Enjoy!