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.