When it comes to effortless yet impressive dinner recipes, few ingredients can rival the humble Lil Smokie. These bite-sized sausages are a staple at many gatherings and events, and for good reason – they’re easy to grab, fun to eat, and pair well with just about anything.
From classic combinations like mac and cheese to more adventurous pairings like teriyaki stir-fry, we’ve rounded up 18 savory Lil Smokies dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to spice up your weeknight routine, these innovative recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Crescent-Wrapped Lil Smokies with Cheese
Crescent-Wrapped Lil Smokies with Cheese: A simple and satisfying appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of mini smoked sausages, melted cheese, and flaky croissant dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 count)
– 12-15 Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles.
3. Place a Lil Smoky at the base of each triangle.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped parsley over the sausage.
5. Roll up the dough, starting from the wide end, and curve into a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Dot the top of each crescent with softened butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed Lil Smokies
Elevate your party snacks with these sweet and savory Honey Garlic Glazed Lil Smokies!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lil smokies (mini hot dogs)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place lil smokies on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the honey-garlic glaze evenly over the lil smokies.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed lil smokies and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lil Smokies and Pineapple Skewers
Take your party to the beach without leaving the backyard with these sweet and savory skewers. By pairing juicy Lil Smokies with fresh pineapple, you’ll create a flavor combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini hot dogs)
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a Lil Smokie and a pineapple chunk onto each skewer, leaving a small space between the two.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the Lil Smokies and pineapple chunks.
5. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the Lil Smokies are cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
BBQ Lil Smokies in the Slow Cooker
Get ready to enjoy a classic party favorite with minimal effort! These slow-cooked BBQ Lil Smokies are perfect for your next gathering or tailgating event.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini sausages)
– 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the Lil Smokies in a single layer at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Pour the mixture over the sausages.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Lil Smokies Mac and Cheese Bake
A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds savory Lil Smokies for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 can (16 oz) Lil Smokies, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, Lil Smokies, and cheese sauce.
9. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Lil Smokies Bites
Elevate your party snacks with these addictive bites that combine the spicy kick of sriracha sauce with the classic flavor of lil smokies. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lil smokies (mini hot dogs)
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, brown sugar, honey, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Wrap each lil smokie in a piece of aluminum foil, leaving a small opening at one end.
4. Brush the sriracha glaze over the wrapped lil smokies.
5. Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot dogs are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lil Smokies Wrapped in Bacon with Brown Sugar Glaze
Sweet and savory, these Lil Smokies wrapped in bacon are a crowd-pleaser! A classic combination of tender smoked sausage, crispy bacon, and a rich brown sugar glaze comes together for a snack that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Lil Smokies
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into six equal pieces.
3. Wrap each Lil Smoky with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the wrapped Lil Smokies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze.
6. Brush the glaze over the wrapped Lil Smokies.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lil Smokies and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the savory flavor of Lil Smokies with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion. With minimal preparation time and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package Lil Smokies
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with a fork.
3. In a separate pan, cook the Lil Smokies according to package instructions.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, heavy cream, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the potato mixture followed by the cooked Lil Smokies.
6. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Lil Smokies
Elevate your party snacks with these creamy, spicy, and addictive Jalapeño Popper Lil Smokies! Mini hot dogs wrapped in a flavorful jalapeño popper filling make for the perfect bite-sized treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini hot dogs (Lil Smokies)
– 1 can of cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jalapeños, sliced into thin strips
– Wooden skewers or toothpicks for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Wrap each Lil Smokie with a slice of jalapeño and a spoonful of the cheese mixture.
4. Place the wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with wooden skewers or toothpicks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Chili Lil Smokies
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory Cranberry Chili Lil Smokies! Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini hot dogs)
– 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons of chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place Lil Smokies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each hot dog.
4. In a small bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Brush the mixture evenly onto the Lil Smokies.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized and the hot dogs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Lil Smokies
Elevate your party game with these addictive mini sausages smothered in a spicy buffalo ranch sauce. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the Lil Smokies on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing; whisk until smooth.
6. Pour the buffalo-ranch mixture evenly over the Lil Smokies.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until sausages are cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lil Smokies in Puff Pastry with Mustard Dip
Elevate the classic party favorite by wrapping Lil Smokies in flaky puff pastry and serving them with a tangy mustard dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon of whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Place a Lil Smokie in the center of each piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
4. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg for sealing.
5. Fold pastry over sausage, pressing edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp and create a decorative edge.
6. Place mini pies on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix mustard, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Serve with warm Lil Smokies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Lil Smokies Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stir-fries, this recipe combines the flavors of teriyaki sauce with juicy lil smokies and a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 package Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 2 tablespoons Teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and Lil Smokies; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the Teriyaki sauce; stir to combine.
5. Add the broccoli; cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lil Smokies and Mini Meatball Sub Sliders
Get ready to serve up a flavorful and fun twist on traditional sliders! This recipe combines the classic taste of Lil Smokies with the comfort of mini meatball subs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 mini sub rolls
– Marinara sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook Lil Smokies according to package instructions.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a few meatballs and Lil Smokies on each sub roll. Serve with marinara sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Lil Smokies Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent quesadillas, packed with the savory flavor of Lil Smokies sausages and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 Lil Smokies sausages
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Slice the Lil Smokies into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with shredded cheese, chopped onion, and a few slices of Lil Smokies.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Lil Smokies in Blankets with Everything Bagel Seasoning
Elevate your snacking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Lil Smokies in Blankets with Everything Bagel Seasoning!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 6-8 large flour tortillas
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of Everything Bagel Seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wrap each Lil Smokie in a tortilla, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Dot the top of each wrapped sausage with butter.
4. Sprinkle Everything Bagel Seasoning over the butter.
5. Fold the tortilla over the sausage and press gently to seal.
6. Place the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tortillas are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
For an extra crispy wrap, broil the Lil Smokies for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Serve warm and enjoy!
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Lil Smokies
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Lil Smokies Recipe
Looking for a deliciously sweet and spicy appetizer or snack? These Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Lil Smokies are the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini hot dogs)
– 1 cup of pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh pineapple
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
3. Add the Lil Smokies to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the Lil Smokies on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped pineapple.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lil Smokies and Cornbread Muffin Bites
Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick snack, these bite-sized Lil Smokies and cornbread muffins are an irresistible combination. Miniature hot dogs wrapped in sausage and served with sweet and savory cornbread bites will be a hit with anyone.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, and egg.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide mixture evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, cook Lil Smokies according to package instructions.
8. Serve warm cornbread bites with cooked Lil Smokies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Liven up your mealtime with these 18 savory Lil Smokies dinner recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, there’s something for every occasion. Try Crescent-Wrapped Lil Smokies with Cheese, Honey Garlic Glazed Lil Smokies, or Spicy Sriracha Lil Smokies Bites. Or, get creative with Lil Smokies and Pineapple Skewers or Lil Smokies in Puff Pastry with Mustard Dip. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party dish, these recipes are sure to impress.
