Lil Smokies (Cocktail Wienies)
🕒 Prep Time: 5 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 1 hour
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
🍽️ Servings: Depends on the quantity of ingredients used
🥘 Category: Kid Friendly
🔑 Keywords: Potluck, Weeknight, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, < 4 Hours, Easy
Description:
This recipe is an absolute lifesaver for busy parents and anyone looking for a quick, delicious treat that’s sure to please a crowd. Despite its humble ingredients, the combination of flavors in this dish is surprisingly addictive, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or need a dish to bring to a potluck, these Lil Smokies are always a hit. Plus, with minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have more time to spend with your loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe and see the smiles it brings, you’ll be thanking yourself for discovering it!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Lil Smokies (Cocktail Wienies), cut in half
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup ketchup
Instructions:
-
Preparation: Begin by cutting all the Lil Smokies in half. This step ensures that each bite-sized piece is packed with flavor, making them perfect for snacking.
-
Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, grab your trusty slow cooker. In the crock, pour equal parts of grape jelly and ketchup. This unlikely duo may seem strange, but trust me, they create a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the sausages.
- 🕒 Cooking Time: Set the slow cooker to low heat and add the halved Lil Smokies to the sauce. Allow them to simmer gently, soaking up all the delicious flavors, while you go about your day. This low and slow cooking method ensures that the sausages are tender and infused with the sweet and savory sauce by the time you’re ready to serve.
-
Stove Top Method: If you’re short on time and need dinner in a pinch, don’t worry – you can still enjoy these Lil Smokies in no time. Simply grab a saucepan and set it over medium-high heat.
- 🕒 Cooking Time: Pour the grape jelly and ketchup into the saucepan, stirring until they’re well combined and heated through. Once the sauce is bubbling, add the halved Lil Smokies and let them simmer for a shorter amount of time compared to the slow cooker method. This quicker cooking method still yields delicious results, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the Lil Smokies are cooked to perfection and the sauce is thick and bubbly, it’s time to dig in! Serve them straight from the slow cooker or saucepan, either as an appetizer for a party or as a main dish for a family dinner. These flavorful bites are sure to disappear quickly, so be sure to grab your fair share before they’re all gone!
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 1955.9
- Fat: 121.5g
- Saturated Fat: 51.1g
- Cholesterol: 281.2mg
- Sodium: 6346.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 169.5g
- Fiber: 2.2g
- Sugar: 131.4g
- Protein: 58.8g
Tips and Tricks:
-
Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different flavors of jelly or barbecue sauce to create a unique sauce that suits your palate.
-
Make-Ahead: These Lil Smokies can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.
-
Accompaniments: Serve these Lil Smokies alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a quick and easy snack, these Lil Smokies are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With their irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors, they’re guaranteed to be a hit every time you serve them. So go ahead, whip up a batch today and watch as they disappear before your eyes!
