These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are the perfect party treat! They’re juicy little sausages cooked in a sweet and tangy honey garlic sauce that makes every bite so tasty.
Who can resist those tiny, smoky bites? They disappear from the plate fast! I love serving them with toothpicks for a fun and easy snack. Perfect for game day or any get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Cocktail Sausages: These are the star of the dish! I love using beef or turkey sausages for their great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken or plant-based sausages.
Honey: This ingredient adds sweetness and gloss to the sauce. If you’re unable to use honey, maple syrup is a good alternative, though it will give a slightly different flavor. Agave syrup works well too.
Soy Sauce: It provides a savory depth. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is perfect. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that amazing flavor. If you find yourself without fresh garlic, garlic powder may work, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, regular white vinegar or even a squeeze of lemon juice can work as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure the Sauce Doesn’t Burn?
Burnt garlic can ruin your dish! To avoid this, keep a close eye on the heat. When you’re simmering the sauce, make sure it’s at a gentle simmer—not a rapid boil.
- Start with medium heat but be ready to adjust down to medium-low if you notice it bubbling too vigorously.
- Stir frequently when you add the sausages to keep the garlic from sticking to the pan and burning.
- If you’re unsure, taste and smell while cooking. If it starts to become bitter, it may have burnt, so keep an eye on it!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14 oz) package mini cocktail sausages (smokies)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme or parsley sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes before these tasty bites are ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it). Stir well to mix all the ingredients together into a smooth sauce.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Next, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for about 3-4 minutes so the sugar can dissolve and all the flavors can come together nicely.
3. Add the Sausages:
Add the mini cocktail sausages into the skillet, stirring them around to make sure they get evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Cook and Thicken:
Continue cooking on medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to do this until the sausages are heated through and the sauce thickens up and becomes sticky, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Just be careful not to let the garlic burn!
5. Final Touches:
Once the sauce has thickened to a nice glaze, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the cocktail smokies to a serving dish and, if you’d like, drizzle a bit more honey on top for extra sweetness.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and add fresh thyme or parsley sprigs for garnish. Serve the smokies warm, and don’t forget toothpicks for easy snacking!
Enjoy these sweet, garlicky, and savory cocktail smokies at your next party or gathering! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While mini cocktail sausages are traditional, you can also use turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausages for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just boil them according to package directions before adding to the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Combine all the sauce ingredients in the slow cooker, add the sausages, and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like a kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s cooking. Adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spice!
