These Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies are little sausages bathed in a sweet and tasty honey garlic sauce. Perfect as a snack or party appetizer!
Whenever I make these, I can barely resist sneaking a few before they’re even served. They’re just so good and easy to whip up! 🤤
I love how quickly they come together, making them a go-to for any gathering. Just pop them on the stove and let that delicious smell fill the room!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: These mini smoked sausages are the star of the dish. I prefer turkey or beef varieties for a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to swap them out with vegetarian sausages or even grilled mushroom bites!
Honey: Honey brings that sweet touch. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, agave nectar or maple syrup works well. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
Soy Sauce: This adds a good umami punch. For a gluten-free version, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re cutting back on sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for the best flavor. If you have garlic powder, it’s a substitute—just use about 1 teaspoon. Although, fresh garlic really makes each bite pop!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional, but I love the slight tang it adds. If you don’t have it, you can leave it out or use rice vinegar instead.
How Do I Make the Sauce Stick to the Smokies?
The key to getting that sauce to coat the smokies beautifully is simmmering without rushing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start on medium heat and let the mixture gently bubble. This helps all the flavors meld well together.
- As you simmer, the water content in the sauce will thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Keep cooking until the sauce is thick and coats the smokies perfectly—about 10-15 minutes should do it.
Letting the smokies sit in the sauce post cooking is a great way to let all those flavors pump up the taste even more!
Honey Garlic Cocktail Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smokies:
- 1 package (14 oz) cocktail smokies (mini smoked sausages)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
- Water (as needed)
For Serving:
- Skewers (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and roughly 15 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that impresses with its rich flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium skillet or saucepan. Place it over medium heat. In this pan, mix together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well mixed and the sugar starts to dissolve.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Next, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Keep stirring occasionally to make sure the sugar dissolves fully and the flavors combine into a delicious mix!
3. Add the Cocktail Smokies:
Once your sauce is simmering, it’s time to add the cocktail smokies! Place them right into the sauce. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of water—just enough to help cook the smokies evenly without drowning them.
4. Cook Until Perfect:
Let the smokies simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes. This will heat them through and allow the sauce to thicken beautifully around them. Stir occasionally so they get coated with that amazing sauce.
5. Finishing Touches:
When they’re done, remove the pan from heat. If you want to serve them on skewers, go ahead and thread the smokies for easier handling and a fun look!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These smokies are best served warm. They make an excellent appetizer or party snack that everyone will love! Just watch them disappear!
Enjoy the sticky, sweet, and garlicky goodness of these honey garlic cocktail smokies!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While cocktail smokies are traditional, you can use any small sausages, like turkey or beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based sausages or grilled mushrooms for a delicious twist!
What Should I Do If I Want to Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up nicely. Mix it in with the sauce during the cooking process to let those flavors meld!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and smokies in advance. Just follow the recipe and then let them cool before storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat on the stove until hot and bubbly. Enjoy!
