Lil Smokies are a classic appetizer that no party or get-together should be without!
This recipe makes a thick, sweet, and savory sauce made from brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of bourbon whiskey. This sauce has a deep, rich flavor that clings to each little bite-sized sausage!
Best Brown Sugar Bourbon Little Smokies
- Little smokies (aka Lil’ smokies) are a popular appetizer at cocktail parties, barbecues, and potlucks.
- This recipe is so versatile! Make the stovetop version for a quick & easy recipe, or cook them in the slow-cooker.
- No smokies? No problem! Stir in some frozen or homemade meatballs.
- Take these perfectly portable hearty apps to a tailgating party and watch them disappear!
- Nothing is easier than an easy 5-ingredient sauce!
Ingredients and Variations
SMOKIES: Cocktail smokies are mini smoked pork ‘weenies’ that can be cooked just like regular hot dogs. This same recipe can be made with chopped beef or pork hotdogs if smokies can’t be found! Stir in pre-cooked frozen meatballs if you’d like.
SAUCE: Little smokies are delicious on their own, but taste even better when they are slow-cooked in this tangy 5 ingredient sauce. Make the sauce sweeter by adding grape jelly and brown sugar, or spicier by adding bbq sauce, sriracha, or Tabasco.
How to Cook Lil Smokies
Make ahead, warm up, and serve!
In the Crock-Pot:
- Combine all the ingredients (per recipe below) in a Crockpot.
- Cover and cook on high for two hours.
- Keep Crockpot on a warm setting to serve them.
On the Stovetop:
- Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan per recipe below.
- Cook on low for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Storing Leftovers
Keep brown sugar bourbon little smokies in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat them on the stovetop and add a little extra ketchup to refresh their flavor!
Feeding a Crowd?
- CrockPot Spinach Artichoke Dip – a great make-ahead dip
- Homemade Air Fryer Pizza Rolls – with pre-made dough
- Air Fryer Nachos – ready in 15 minutes
- Beer Brats – perfect for a tailgate party!
- Crispy Homemade Hot Wings – use fresh or frozen wings
- Oven-Baked Soft Pretzels – serve with Easy Queso Dip
Did you make these Brown Sugar Bourbon Little Smokies? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
Brown Sugar Bourbon Smokies
Equipment
Ingredients
- 24 ounces little smokies 2 packages
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 3 ounces bourbon whiskey
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
-
Add all ingredients to a crockpot and stir until evenly coated.
-
Cook on high heat for 2 hours.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Course Appetizer, Party Food, Slow Cooker, Snack
Cuisine American
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i do not have any jim beam i have jack Daniels, will that work or do you advise another
That would work well in this recipe! Enjoy!
It was really nice, my party guests just gobbled them up.
This dish is must-have at parties, for sure! Thanks for leaving a comment
Hi : would could I substitute bourbon as it has to be non-alcoholic. Thanks
Hi Claudette, we have only made this recipe as listed but you could leave it out, or try replacing the bourbon with a tablespoon or so of vanilla extract. We also have this bacon-wrapped smokie recipe that you might enjoy! I hope that helps!
I don’t use bourbon either. I’m thinking of mixing a.c. vinegar and chicken stock to make 3 T. or chili sauce.