Print

Bourbon BBQ Little Smokies

Bourbon BBQ Little Smokies - featured image
Print Recipe

Smoky cocktail sausages simmered in a sticky, sweet bourbon BBQ sauce make the ultimate party appetizer. Quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, these little bites deliver bold flavor and nostalgic comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (14-ounce) packages cocktail-size smoked sausage links (Little Smokies or similar)
  • 3/4 cup bourbon whiskey
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (smoky or spicy varieties recommended)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • Optional garnish: Fresh chopped parsley
  • Optional garnish: Thinly sliced green onions
  • Optional garnish: Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine bourbon whiskey and brown sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to cook off the alcohol.
  2. Add barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if using). Whisk until smooth.
  3. Simmer the sauce gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and glossy.
  4. While the sauce simmers, drain the sausage links and pat dry with paper towels.
  5. Transfer sausages to a large skillet or slow cooker. Pour hot bourbon BBQ sauce over them and toss gently to coat.
  6. If using a skillet, cook over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sausages are heated through and sauce clings. If using a slow cooker, heat on low for 1-2 hours.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with toothpicks.

Notes

Simmering the bourbon before adding other ingredients smooths the sauce and cooks off alcohol. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free sausages and BBQ sauce. Sauce thickness can be adjusted with water or apple juice. Make ahead and reheat gently for best flavor. Garnishes are optional but add color and crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon, BBQ, little smokies, party appetizer, cocktail sausages, easy, smoky, sweet, game day, potluck, holiday, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/bourbon-bbq-little-smokies-recipe-easy-party-appetizer-idea/