These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are a fun and tasty treat! They are tiny sausages cooked in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce that everyone loves.
Perfect for parties or game days, they are super easy to make and disappear fast! I always keep a serving spoon handy to get every last bit of that yummy sauce. Don’t forget the napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These little sausages are the stars of the dish! You can find them in the refrigerated section. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken smokies work well too. For a vegetarian twist, look for plant-based sausage alternatives.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. If you want a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Soy Sauce: This provides saltiness and umami. If you’re avoiding soy, tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes that offer a similar taste. Keep in mind that tamari is gluten-free!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use less – about 1/4 teaspoon equals one clove of fresh garlic.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but helps balance out the sweetness. If you don’t have it, rice vinegar or even lemon juice can do the trick!
How Do You Create the Ideal Sauce for Smokies?
Making the sauce is where the magic happens! You’ll want to follow a few easy steps to really get it right:
- Start by mixing ingredients in a saucepan to create an even blend. Make sure to stir the honey and soy sauce well; they can be a bit sticky!
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This helps to meld the flavors together. Don’t rush this – a little simmer can make a big difference!
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it thicken for 3-5 minutes. The sauce will become richer and stickier, which is perfect for coating the smokies.
- Finally, add the smokies and let them soak in the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure every bite gets that tasty coating!
Trust me, taking your time with the sauce will yield amazing results!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Smokies:
- 1 (14 oz) package cocktail smoked sausages (little smokies)
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for balance)
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprig or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll be enjoying these delicious smoky treats in about 30 minutes! Perfect for quick gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Raise the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This usually takes just a few minutes. Once you see it bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken just a bit.
3. Add the Smokies:
Now it’s time to add those cocktail smoked sausages! Toss them into the saucepan and stir well to make sure they get fully coated in that tasty sauce.
4. Simmer and Coat:
Allow the sausages to simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the smokies heat through and soak up every bit of that delicious honey garlic flavor. You’ll notice the sauce getting thick and sticky, which is exactly what you want!
5. Final Touches:
Season with fresh ground black pepper to taste. Taste the sauce and adjust any flavors if you’d like—more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness can do the trick!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the saucy smokies to a serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or some chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Smokies Instead?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken smokies are great alternatives if you want a leaner option. They’ll still soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce perfectly!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the smokies ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies?
These smokies are perfect on their own as an appetizer! However, you can also serve them with toothpicks alongside a fresh veggie platter, or pair them with sides like coleslaw or chips for a fun snack spread.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to ensure even heating.
