Introduction
Mississippi Little Smokies are a delightful and savory appetizer perfect for parties, game day, or any casual gathering. This dish combines the rich flavors of barbecue sauce and zesty spices with bite-sized sausages, making it an easy and crowd-pleasing treat. Let’s dive into the details!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup grape jelly
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Recipe
To prepare Mississippi Little Smokies, begin by mixing the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a slow cooker. Once well combined, add the Little Smokies sausages to the mixture, ensuring they are coated thoroughly. Set the slow cooker on low for about 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the sausages to heat through. Stir occasionally, and serve warm for a delicious appetizer. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the little smokies from sticking.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add Little Smokies
Place the little smokies in the slow cooker and pour the barbecue sauce and grape jelly mixture over them. Make sure the smokies are well-coated.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, stir the little smokies and serve them warm. Enjoy them straight from the slow cooker or transfer them to a serving dish.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Little smokies can be served as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. Pair them with toothpicks for easy serving.
Variations
Feel free to customize the sauce by adding hot sauce for an extra kick or using different flavors of barbecue sauce to suit your taste.
Storage Tips
Leftover little smokies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or slow cooker before serving again.
Creative Serving Ideas
Consider serving these little smokies alongside a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, mustard, or spicy ketchup. This can enhance the flavor experience and cater to different tastes at your gathering.
Perfect Pairings
Little smokies pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh vegetable platter. These can add a refreshing contrast to the savory flavor of the smokies.
Event Planning with Little Smokies
If you’re planning a large event, consider doubling the recipe to ensure you have enough for all your guests. They are a hit during game day parties, holiday gatherings, and family get-togethers.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking the little smokies allows for the flavors to meld beautifully over an extended period. This technique ensures they become tender and absorb all the tasty sauces, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Sauteing
Sauteing the ingredients lightly before adding the little smokies can boost the overall taste. It enhances the developement of flavors in the dish, making it more savory.
Simmering
Simmering the mixture after adding the sauces allows the little smokies to soak in all the rich flavors. This technique infuses the dish with a delightful taste that makes every bite enjoyable.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of sausage according to your taste preferences. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
How long should I cook the little smokies?
Cooking time can vary, but usually, 4 to 6 hours on low in a slow cooker is sufficient to achieve tenderness and flavor infusion.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, making it perfect for gatherings.
What can I serve with Mississippi Little Smokies?
Mississippi Little Smokies pair well with crackers, bread, or even vegetable sticks for dipping. They also make a fantastic addition to a game day spread.
Conclusion
Mississippi Little Smokies are a versatile, flavorful dish that can easily accommodate various preferences and occasions. Their ease of preparation and rich taste make them a favorite in many households. So why not gather your friends or family and give this delightful recipe a try? What unique variations would you consider to make this dish your own?
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try pairing with a tangy barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw.
Consider adding jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Enjoy with a selection of dipping sauces for variety.
