Description
Glazed Cocktail Sausages
Ingredients
1 lb cocktail sausages (mini smoked sausages or sliced kielbasa)
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
Cook the sausages: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cocktail sausages and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
Add the glaze: Pour the sauce over the sausages and stir to coat. Lower the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the sausages are fully coated.
Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect glazed sausages every time. First, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready. In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk the barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard until you have a completely smooth, lump-free glaze. Pat your cocktail sausages dry with a paper towel—this helps them brown better. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. You do not need oil, as the sausages will release their own fat. Add the sausages in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned on all sides. Carefully pour the prepared glaze into the skillet. It will sizzle and bubble. Immediately reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the sauce has reduced to a thick, glossy coating that clings to the sausages. Watch closely near the end to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile sausages are perfect for more than just a plate. For parties, serve them warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting to keep them perfect for hours. Skewer them with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a fuller appetizer spread, pair them with other finger foods like meatballs, cheese cubes, and vegetable crudités. They also make a fantastic sweet-and-savory topping for mashed potatoes or polenta for a hearty meal. A side of cool, creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or a blue cheese dressing, can balance the richness.
How-to Summary
To quickly summarize: Whisk the glaze ingredients together. Brown the sausages in a dry skillet. Pour the glaze over the sausages, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is thick and sticky. Garnish and serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare them fully, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a slow cooker, adding a splash of water if the glaze is too thick.
Can I use different types of sausage? Yes. Mini smoked sausages are classic, but sliced kielbasa, little smokies, or even plant-based cocktail sausages work well. Adjust cooking time slightly based on size.
My glaze is too thin. How can I thicken it? If the sauce hasn’t thickened after simmering, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this slurry into the skillet and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Can I bake these instead of cooking on the stove? Yes. Combine the sausages and glaze in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until bubbly and caramelized.
How can I make this recipe less sweet? Reduce the honey or brown sugar by half, or use a sugar-free barbecue sauce. You can also increase the Dijon mustard or add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Crowding the sausages steams them instead of browning them. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using High Heat with the Glaze: Adding the sauce over high heat can cause it to burn instantly. Always reduce the heat to low once the glaze is added.
- Not Stirring Occasionally: During simmering, failing to stir can lead to uneven coating and hot spots where the sugar burns.
- Skipping the Garnish: The fresh parsley adds a crucial pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast that cuts through the sweetness.
Conclusion
These Glazed Cocktail Sausages are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, combining sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in one irresistible bite. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and 20 minutes, you can create a party staple that guests will love. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly sticky, glossy glaze every time. Whether for a game day gathering, holiday party, or a simple snack, this recipe is guaranteed to disappear quickly.