Sweet and Spicy Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Introduction

Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for any gathering. These tiny sausages are coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it requires very little preparation and cooking time. You can simply pop everything in the slow cooker and relax while it cooks. Second, the combination of hot honey and garlic creates a unique flavor that balances sweetness and spice. It’s perfect for game days, holiday parties, or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy!

How to Make Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Making Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies is simple. You only need a few ingredients and a slow cooker. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• 2 (14 ounce packages) lit’l smokies sausages
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup hot honey
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons hickory liquid smoke
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (or 2 teaspoons yellow mustard)

Directions:

1. Place the 2 (14 ounce packages) lit’l smokies sausages into the crock of a slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup hot honey, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons minced garlic, 2 teaspoons hickory liquid smoke, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the sausages in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the sausages are evenly coated.
4. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low. Cook for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and thickened, and the sausages are heated through.
5. Serve warm, directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish.

How to Serve Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Serve the Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies as a delightful appetizer for parties or gatherings. They can be served directly from the slow cooker, keeping them warm for your guests. For a nice touch, place toothpicks next to the sausages for easy serving. You can also pair them with some dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for an extra flavor kick.

How to Store Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked sausages in a vacuum-sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

• For a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of hot honey or replace it with regular honey.
• If you like extra heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Experiment with different types of mustard to enhance the flavor even more.

Variation

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor. You can also swap the lit’l smokies for other types of sausages, like chicken or turkey, for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh sausages instead of lit’l smokies?
   Yes, you can use fresh sausages. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed until they are fully cooked.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Most ingredients are gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels, especially for sauces like Worcestershire.

3. Can I cook these on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make them on the stovetop by simmering everything in a pot over low heat. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning the sauce.

Enjoy making and sharing these tasty Hot Honey Garlic Little Smokies with your family and friends!