Taking a closer look at little smoky appetizers reveals a diverse array of options beyond the classic pigs in a blanket. While it’s easy to get stuck on traditional favorites, exploring the world of little smokys can lead to some truly remarkable discoveries. Don’t be fooled by the initial assumption that there’s only one type of little smoky out there; in reality, they come in an astonishing variety of flavors and textures.
From the sweet and tangy to the savory and spicy, there’s something for every palate. I’ve curated a list of ten standout little smoky appetizers that showcase the best of what this genre has to offer. Whether you’re looking for something new to try at your next family gathering or simply want to mix things up, these options are sure to delight.
Quick BBQ Smokie Recipe in Minutes
Yes, for those who are passionate about BBQ, these two-ingredient smokies might just hit the spot. All that’s required is a few simple ingredients: smoked sausage (smokies), your favorite BBQ sauce, and a saucepan. Alternatively, you can also prepare them in a slow cooker, allowing them to simmer for an extended period of time and absorb the deep flavors of the sauce.
Regardless of the cooking method chosen, these smokies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, so don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly when it’s time to serve.
Perfectly Balanced Crockpot Smoky Bites
Breaking away from traditional recipes for making little smokies in the Crockpot is a bold move, but this particular recipe offers the perfect blend of sweetness and savory flavors that’s hard to resist. To achieve this delightful balance, combine little smokies with a mixture of barbecue sauce, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, which provides a robust and warm flavor that’s almost irresistible.
While some people swear by using grape jelly instead of light brown sugar, I firmly believe that the sugar pairs better with the bold flavors of Worcestershire and barbecue sauces. That being said, feel free to experiment with this recipe and discover your own personal preference – you might just find that grape jelly is the way to go.
Applewood-Infused Little Smokies with Apple Butter
Combining the flavors of slow cooker little smokies with apple butter offers a unique twist on this classic recipe. Typically, people reach for sugary options like sugar or grape jelly when making little smokies, but they often miss out on a more complex flavor profile. Apple butter brings an unparalleled sweetness and richness to the dish while introducing a subtle yet distinct hint of apples in every bite.
While it does increase the carb content slightly, this variation is perfect for those seeking a protein-rich treat that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Smoked Delights in Miniature Form
Naturally, one of the most distinctive characteristics of little smokies is their robust, earthy flavor profile, which is as complex and multifaceted as it is tantalizing. These sausages are imbued with a meaty, buttery texture and slathered in a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. Notably, these little smokies stand out from their peers due to their intense smokiness, so they’re best suited for those who already have a taste for smoked meats.
Nevertheless, if you do enjoy smoked meats, be prepared to make multiple batches of these delectable sausages because once you start eating them, it’s remarkably difficult to stop and resist the temptation to devour another batch.
Smoky Mini Crescent Wraps
Highlighting a classic favorite among partygoers and snack enthusiasts alike, mini pigs in a blanket remain an essential addition to our list of top ten all-time best appetizers. Initially, I mentioned that I would include these recipes in the countdown, so it’s only fitting that we get started with this crowd-pleaser. This delightful combination brings together the rich, smoky flavor of little smokies and the tender, buttery texture of crescent roll crusts.
As an added bonus, they can be prepared in under 30 minutes using just these two simple ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or need a quick solution for unexpected guests, mini pigs in a blanket are sure to impress with their effortless elegance and taste.
Sweet & Tangy Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Keeping with the theme of adding a holiday twist to your appetizers, consider incorporating cranberry sauce into the regular brown sugar and BBQ sauce mixture. This will give your dishes a lovely reddish-orange glaze that not only looks festive but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Furthermore, as they cook for 6 hours or so, they’ll become incredibly tender and juicy in the center, while still retaining a satisfying crunch when you first bite into them.
Garlic Honey Slow Cooker Little Smokies
Elevate your snack game with this alternative recipe for Crockpot little smokies, which offers an even more intense flavor profile compared to its predecessor. While it still features the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes, these bite-sized treats have a significantly higher garlic content, making them a must-try for those who love a pungent kick.
In addition to the familiar ingredients like soy sauce, ketchup, honey, and brown sugar, this recipe requires just as minimal prep time – no more than 5 minutes will be spent on preparation. However, unlike its speedy counterpart, these little smokies will require a longer cooking time in your Crockpot or slow cooker. Rest assured that the wait is worth it, as the flavors will only deepen and become even more complex with each passing minute of cooking.
Air Fryer BBQ Smoky Little Bites
You can easily make sweet and smoky little smokies without a Crockpot or slow cooker by using an air fryer instead. This method is ideal for those in a hurry as it only takes around 15 minutes to prepare and cook the ingredients, which include little smokies, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce. The best part about making them this way is that you can achieve the same level of flavor as traditional slow-cooked little smokies with minimal effort.
Instant Pot BBQ Hawaiian Little Smokies
Recent developments have taken the little smokies game to new heights, with one standout variation being the Hawaiian-style version that has captured the hearts of many. These sweet and savory treats pack a punch with an eclectic mix of jalapenos, BBQ pork rub, paprika, raspberry jam, pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, and BBQ sauce.
The result is a medley of flavors in every bite, ensuring that everyone who tries them will be hooked from the very first taste and eager to come back for seconds, thirds, or more.
