Southern Smokies
Southern Smokies are a savory, sweet, and smoky appetizer featuring sausage smokies coated in a tangy barbecue and grape jelly glaze. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, they offer a delightful combination of flavors that are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage smokies in a skillet for 5 to 10 minutes.
- While browning, mix the grape jelly and barbecue sauce in a crock-pot on high setting.
- Drain the cooked sausage smokies and add them to the crock-pot.
- Simmer the mixture for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider using a spicy barbecue sauce or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey smokies can be substituted for traditional sausage. Additionally, if grape jelly is not available, apricot or apple jelly can also work well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These Southern Smokies are perfect as a party appetizer, served alongside toothpicks for easy eating. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy veggies for a balanced spread. They also complement well with dips like ranch or blue cheese. For more delicious ideas, check out Party Cocktail Sausages.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the mixture gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the sausages from becoming tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Smokies contains roughly 95 calories, with 7g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these smokies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the smokies ahead of time. Simply brown the sausages and mix them with the grape jelly and barbecue sauce, then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat in a crock-pot until warmed through.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Choose a barbecue sauce that matches your taste preference. A sweet and tangy sauce complements the grape jelly nicely, while a smoky or spicy sauce can add an extra kick. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped onions or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. You can also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Customize it to suit your palate!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).