Bourbon Little Smokies Recipe

Introduction

Bourbon Little Smokies are the perfect savory snack, combining the bold, smoky flavor of cocktail sausages with the rich sweetness of bourbon. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for any party, holiday gathering, or game day celebration. The little smokies are cooked in a flavorful bourbon glaze that is both sweet and tangy, with just a hint of heat. These bite-sized treats are quick and easy to make, yet they never fail to impress guests with their delicious and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual get-together or a special occasion, Bourbon Little Smokies will surely be the star of the show.

This guide will walk you through each step of making this mouthwatering dish, share tips for perfect results, and suggest fun variations to make this recipe your own.

Why You’ll Love Bourbon Little Smokies

• Bold Flavor: The combination of bourbon, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich, savory glaze that coats each little smoky sausage, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
• Perfectly Sweet and Savory: The sweetness of brown sugar and the complexity of bourbon create a perfect balance with the smoky flavor of the sausages. The result is a dish that is both sweet and savory, with a slight kick of heat from the optional hot sauce or mustard.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare this dish in under an hour. Bourbon Little Smokies are perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a hassle-free appetizer or snack.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, tailgate event, or family gathering, these Bourbon Little Smokies are a great choice. They’re a hit at both formal events and casual get-togethers.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The bite-sized nature of these sausages makes them a convenient and shareable dish. They’re perfect for passing around on appetizer platters or serving in slow cookers for easy snacking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12-15 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 120-140 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120-140 kcal
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 7-9g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Bourbon Little Smokies:

• 1 (14 oz) package little smokies (cocktail sausages)
• ¾ cup bourbon (choose a good quality bourbon)
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Glaze

Start by preparing the flavorful bourbon glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and hot sauce (if using). Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Bring the glaze to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The glaze should become glossy and flavorful, with the alcohol from the bourbon cooking off, leaving behind the sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky taste.

2. Cook the Little Smokies

While the glaze is simmering, heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the little smokies to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The sausages should begin to brown slightly on the outside, adding to their delicious smoky flavor.

Once the little smokies are browned, reduce the heat to low, and pour the prepared bourbon glaze over the sausages. Stir gently to coat the sausages in the glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated.

3. Simmer the Sausages in the Glaze

Let the sausages simmer in the bourbon glaze for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sausages to absorb the flavors of the glaze and cook fully, becoming tender and flavorful. The glaze will thicken further as it cooks, creating a sticky, savory coating on the sausages.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want a little more heat, add a few more dashes of hot sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

4. Serve the Bourbon Little Smokies

Once the sausages have simmered and absorbed all the delicious flavors, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Bourbon Little Smokies to a serving dish, making sure to spoon some of the remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.

For a festive touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color to the dish. Serve the sausages hot and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Bourbon Little Smokies

• Choose a Good Bourbon: The bourbon you use will have a significant impact on the flavor of the glaze. Choose a bourbon that you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will be imparted into the sauce.
• Simmer the Glaze Long Enough: Allow the glaze to simmer for long enough to thicken and develop rich flavors. Don’t rush this process, as it helps the glaze coat the sausages and enhances their taste.
• Adjust the Heat to Your Liking: The hot sauce is optional, but if you enjoy a bit of heat, it can add a nice kick to the dish. You can also use other spicy ingredients, like chili flakes or jalapeños, to customize the spice level.
• Use a Slow Cooker for Easy Serving: If you’re preparing Bourbon Little Smokies for a party or gathering, a slow cooker is a great way to keep the sausages warm and ready to serve. Simply add the cooked sausages and glaze to the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, and let guests help themselves.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the bourbon glaze and cook the little smokies ahead of time. Store the cooked sausages and glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker before serving.

Variations of Bourbon Little Smokies

• Maple Bourbon Little Smokies: For a sweeter variation, swap out some of the brown sugar for maple syrup. The maple syrup will add a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the bourbon perfectly.
• Honey Bourbon Little Smokies: If you prefer a more natural sweetness, substitute the brown sugar with honey. Honey adds a smooth, golden sweetness that pairs well with the tangy mustard and savory sausages.
• Cranberry Bourbon Little Smokies: For a festive twist, add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries to the skillet during the simmering process. The cranberries will burst and release their juices, adding a tart contrast to the sweet glaze.
• Bourbon BBQ Little Smokies: For a more traditional barbecue flavor, swap out the Dijon mustard for your favorite barbecue sauce. The bourbon will still provide depth of flavor, while the BBQ sauce adds smokiness and a touch of tang.

Storage and Shelf Life

Bourbon Little Smokies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if necessary. To store leftovers, allow the sausages to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the sausages and glaze in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a slow cooker on the “low” setting until warm.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Bourbon Little Smokies. Arrange the cooled sausages in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as desired.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Bourbon Little Smokies

While Bourbon Little Smokies are a delicious snack on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can make for a complete meal or party spread. Here are some great ideas:

• Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, gouda, or brie, pairs wonderfully with the savory and sweet flavors of the sausages.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds a cool and refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky sausages.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw are a perfect complement to the tender sausages.
• Crudité Platter: A fresh vegetable platter with crisp carrots, celery, and bell peppers adds a healthy balance to the rich flavors of the sausages.
• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is an ideal side dish to soak up any extra bourbon glaze.

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Conclusion

Bourbon Little Smokies are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack that will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. With their rich, sweet, and savory glaze, they offer a bold combination of flavors that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a game day event, or just a casual get-together, these bite-sized treats are the perfect addition to your spread.

With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and the option to customize the flavor to your liking, Bourbon Little Smokies are a versatile dish that everyone will love. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious little smokies—they’re sure to be a hit every time!