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If you're looking to impress at your next gathering, Instant Pot Little Smokies are a fantastic choice. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also cater to various tastes, ensuring everyone finds something they enjoy. From sweet and spicy to savory and cheesy, there's a perfect option for every palate. Ready to explore these delightful variations that will have your guests asking for seconds? Let's plunge into the delicious details.
Key Takeaways
- Prepare Sweet and Spicy BBQ Little Smokies by combining BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper for a flavorful game-day treat.
- Try Honey Garlic Little Smokies with a glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic for a sweet and savory option.
- Experiment with Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies by mixing cranberry sauce with BBQ sauce for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
- Create Cheesy Ranch Little Smokies by blending shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning for a creamy, zesty dish.
- Use the Instant Pot's high-pressure cooking and natural release to ensure juicy Little Smokies with rich flavors in each recipe.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Little Smokies
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Little Smokies are a perfect party appetizer that combines the rich flavors of barbecue sauce with a kick of heat. These tasty bites aren't only easy to prepare but also require minimal cooking time in the Instant Pot.
Whether you're hosting a game-day gathering, a family get-together, or just looking for a quick snack, these little smokies will surely impress your guests with their deliciously sweet and spicy flavor profile.
The combination of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of cayenne pepper creates a mouthwatering glaze that envelops the smokies, making each bite irresistible. The Instant Pot guarantees that the little smokies are cooked evenly and remain juicy, while the flavors meld together beautifully. You can serve them on their own or with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds little smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
To prepare the Sweet and Spicy BBQ Little Smokies, start by placing the little smokies in the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the smokies, making certain they're evenly coated. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to the sealing position, and select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Once done, stir the sausages to coat them in the sauce before serving.
For extra tips, consider adjusting the level of spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it entirely or substitute it with a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky essence without the heat.
Additionally, these little smokies can be kept warm in a slow cooker after cooking, making them perfect for serving at parties or gatherings. Enjoy!
Honey Garlic Little Smokies
Honey Garlic Little Smokies are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory taste of smoked sausages with a sweet and tangy glaze. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Utilizing the Instant Pot guarantees that the flavors meld together beautifully, and the cooking time is considerably reduced compared to traditional methods.
Making Honey Garlic Little Smokies is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic not only adds depth to the dish but also creates a sticky glaze that's hard to resist. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these little smokies are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup honey
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by placing the Little Smokies in the Instant Pot. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger.
- Pour this mixture over the Little Smokies in the pot, guaranteeing that they're well-coated.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Select the sauté function and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the Little Smokies in the honey-soy-garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will allow the sausages to absorb more of the delicious flavors.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste preferences. Enjoy these delectable bites at your next gathering!
Teriyaki Glazed Little Smokies
Teriyaki glazed little smokies are a delightful twist on the classic party appetizer. The combination of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy teriyaki sauce perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the little smokies, making them an irresistible treat.
Whether you're hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or simply looking for a quick and easy snack, these little bites are sure to please a crowd.
Cooking these teriyaki glazed little smokies in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, allowing the smokies to soak up the delicious sauce. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you can whip up this dish in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities.
Let's plunge into the simple ingredient list and cooking instructions to get your taste buds tingling!
Ingredients:
- 2 packages (14 ounces each) little smokies sausages
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Begin by placing the little smokies sausages in the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
- Pour this mixture over the sausages, ensuring they're well-coated. If using, drizzle the sesame oil on top for added flavor.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the timer for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release. Carefully open the lid, stir the sausages, and serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, let the little smokies soak in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to absorb more of the sauce, enhancing the taste.
Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the smokies after cooking and use the sauté function to reduce the sauce to your desired consistency before tossing the smokies back in.
Enjoy your teriyaki glazed little smokies as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Bacon-wrapped little smokies are a classic appetizer that's sure to impress at any gathering. The combination of smoky sausage and crispy bacon creates a delightful flavor profile that's hard to resist.
Plus, cooking these delicious bites in an Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your party and less time in the kitchen.
These savory treats aren't only tasty but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces or pair them with finger foods to create a mouthwatering spread.
Whether you're hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, or just a casual get-together, bacon-wrapped little smokies are guaranteed to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of little smokies (about 14-16 ounces)
- 1 pound of bacon (sliced into thirds)
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Optional: toothpicks for securing bacon
Cooking Instructions:
First, preheat your Instant Pot by selecting the "Sauté" function.
While it heats up, take each little smokie and wrap a piece of bacon around it, securing it with a toothpick if desired.
Once all the little smokies are wrapped, sprinkle them with the brown sugar, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring they're evenly coated.
When the Instant Pot is hot, place the wrapped little smokies inside the pot. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Extra Tips:
For an added twist, consider brushing the bacon with a mixture of maple syrup or barbecue sauce before wrapping the little smokies.
This will give a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky sausage.
Additionally, if you prefer a crunchier bacon texture, you can finish the little smokies under a broiler for a few minutes after cooking in the Instant Pot.
Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce with the smoky flavors of cocktail sausages. Perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings, these little bites are sure to please any crowd.
The Instant Pot makes preparation a breeze, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while ensuring the sausages remain juicy and tender. This recipe takes just a few minutes to prep and is ready in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy hosts.
The combination of BBQ sauce and cranberry sauce creates a unique flavor profile that's both savory and sweet, making it an irresistible finger food. With minimal effort, you can have a delicious dish that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of Little Smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1 cup of cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- In your Instant Pot, combine the cranberry sauce, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the Little Smokies to the sauce mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Select the manual or pressure cook setting and set the timer for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully open the lid, stir the sausages in the sauce, and transfer them to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using a homemade BBQ sauce or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
These Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies can also be kept warm in the Instant Pot on the "keep warm" setting for an extended period, making them perfect for potlucks or parties where guests can help themselves.
Sweet Chili Little Smokies
Sweet Chili Little Smokies are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of the sausages with a sweet and tangy chili sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a cozy night at home, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare in the Instant Pot.
The combination of sweet chili sauce and the savory little smokies creates a mouthwatering experience that will have your guests coming back for more. This recipe isn't only quick but also requires minimal effort, making it ideal for those who want to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just a few ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can serve a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress everyone. Let's explore the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by placing the Little Smokies sausages into the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Pour this sauce mixture over the sausages in the Instant Pot, ensuring they're well coated. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure. After opening the lid, give the sausages a good stir to coat them in the sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can turn on the sauté function and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. Once done, serve the Sweet Chili Little Smokies warm, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the sausages in the sweet chili mixture for a few hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the sausages more deeply.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the level of sweetness or spiciness by modifying the amount of brown sugar or red pepper flakes based on your taste preferences. Enjoy your Sweet Chili Little Smokies!
Mustard and Brown Sugar Little Smokies
If you're searching for a delicious and easy appetizer that will impress your guests, your search ends here with Mustard and Brown Sugar Little Smokies! These savory little sausages are coated in a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors.
Whether you're hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, or simply want a quick snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Cooking Little Smokies in your Instant Pot isn't only quick but also results in juicy and flavorful sausages. With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time. The combination of mustard and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering glaze that clings to each smoky bite, making them irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) package of Little Smokies
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
To begin, pour the Little Smokies into the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the Little Smokies in the Instant Pot, ensuring they're well coated. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Once the pressure has been released, open the lid and give the Little Smokies a good stir to coat them evenly in the sauce. You can serve them straight from the pot or transfer them to a serving dish.
These tangy and sweet sausages are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own!
Extra Tips: For an added kick, consider incorporating some spicy mustard or a dash of hot sauce into the glaze. You can also experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon or honey mustard, to customize the flavor to your liking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use the sauté function after cooking to reduce the sauce slightly before serving. Enjoy your Mustard and Brown Sugar Little Smokies!
Cheesy Ranch Little Smokies
Cheesy Ranch Little Smokies are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that's perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning creates a flavor explosion that will have your guests coming back for more.
Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also guarantees that the little smokies are tender and infused with flavor.
This dish is incredibly versatile; you can serve it with toothpicks for easy snacking or as part of a larger spread. The cheesy ranch sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let's plunge into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup milk
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by adding the Little Smokies to the Instant Pot.
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture over the sausages in the Instant Pot.
Seal the lid and set the pressure cooker to cook on high for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure.
After releasing the pressure, open the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce. If you want to thicken the sauce, you can use the sauté function for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider including some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce in the cheese mixture to give your Cheesy Ranch Little Smokies a spicy kick.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to create your unique version of this dish.
Remember to adjust the cooking time if you're using a different quantity of Little Smokies or if you prefer a thicker sauce. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Smokies Instead of Pork?
Absolutely, you can use turkey or chicken smokies instead of pork! They'll provide a healthier option while still delivering great flavor. Just adjust your cooking time slightly if needed to guarantee they're heated through.
How Long Can Cooked Little Smokies Be Stored in the Fridge?
Sure, you could store cooked little smokies in the fridge forever—if you're a time traveler. In reality, they last about three to four days. So, eat up and don't forget to share!
What Are the Best Dipping Sauces for Little Smokies?
For dipping sauces, you can't go wrong with barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha blend. Each adds a unique flavor kick, enhancing your little smokies experience and keeping your guests coming back for more!
Can I Prepare Little Smokies Ahead of Time for a Party?
You can prepare Little Smokies ahead of time for a party, as 72% of hosts prefer making dishes in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat when guests arrive for easy entertaining!
Are There Vegetarian Alternatives to Little Smokies?
Yes, you can find vegetarian alternatives to Little Smokies. Look for plant-based sausages or smoked tofu in your grocery store. They'll provide similar flavors and textures, making them perfect for your next gathering. Enjoy experimenting!
