These Hot Honey Garlic Lil Smokies are a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy appetizer that’s always a hit at parties. Juicy cocktail sausages are coated in a sticky glaze made with honey, garlic, and a touch of heat, creating bold flavor in every bite. This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and perfect for game day, holidays, or any gathering where you need an easy crowd-pleaser.
If you’re looking for a party appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, these lil smokies are a reliable choice.
Why This Hot Honey Garlic Lil Smokies Recipe Is Perfect
- Sweet and spicy flavor balance
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Perfect for parties, holidays, and game day
- Can be made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker
This recipe works well when you need something fast, flavorful, and easy to serve.
Ingredients
You only need a few ingredients to make this appetizer:
- 14 oz lil smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot honey or hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Optional garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Base
In a medium skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Stir in the honey, hot honey (or hot sauce), and soy sauce. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Add the Lil Smokies
Add the lil smokies to the pan and stir until all the sausages are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the sausages simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy and sticky.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot honey or chili flakes
- Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking
- Use hot honey for deeper flavor, or regular honey for a milder version
- Serve straight from the pan or transfer to a slow cooker on warm
- Double the recipe easily for larger crowds
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: ~170 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
This appetizer is rich and best enjoyed in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make hot honey garlic lil smokies in a slow cooker?
Yes. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Are these lil smokies very spicy?
They are mildly spicy. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of hot honey or hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the recipe ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker before serving.
Variations You Can Try
- Extra spicy version: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper
- Milder version: Use regular honey and reduce the hot sauce
- BBQ twist: Add a small amount of barbecue sauce
- Asian-style version: Add a little grated ginger and a splash of sesame oil
Conclusion
These Hot Honey Garlic Lil Smokies are an easy and flavorful appetizer that works for almost any occasion. Sweet, sticky, garlicky, and just a little spicy, they’re simple to prepare and always popular with guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a dish to share, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Serve them warm and enjoy a sweet-and-spicy appetizer everyone will love.
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