These Easy BBQ Smoked Sausage Bites are a hit at any gathering! You just slice the sausage, cook it until it’s slightly crispy, and mix it with sweet BBQ sauce. Yum!
These bites are perfect for game day or any party! I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can snack easily. Plus, they disappear faster than my leftovers! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: I recommend using kielbasa or andouille for that nice smoky flavor. But if you want a lighter option, try turkey sausage or chicken sausage. They’ll still taste great with BBQ sauce!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix a homemade sauce using ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar. For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, but if you’re not a fan, you could use sliced green onions or simply skip it. Fresh parsley is also a good alternative!
How Do I Get the Sausage Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy edge is all about how you cook the sausage. It’s essential to manage the heat correctly and cook the sausages without overcrowding the pan. Here’s how:
- Preheat your skillet to medium heat to get it hot.
- Add sausage slices without crowding. If you have a lot, do it in batches.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side, allowing a nice crust to form.
- Once browned, lower the heat to add the sauce without burning them.
Following these tips will help you achieve those delicious, crispy sausage bites that everyone will love!
Easy BBQ Smoked Sausage Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick! You’ll need about 10-15 minutes in total: 5 minutes to prepare and slice the sausage, and about 5-10 minutes to cook it. Perfect for a last-minute appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Sausage:
Start by slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This makes them easy to eat and ensures they cook properly!
2. Cooking the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sausage slices to the pan. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to become golden brown and a little crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
3. Adding the BBQ Sauce:
Once your sausage bites are nicely browned, turn the heat down to low. Pour the BBQ sauce over the sausage bites and stir gently to coat them all. This way, every bite will be deliciously saucy!
4. Simmering:
Let the sausage bites simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken a bit and stick to the sausage, making sure they are packed with flavor.
5. Serving:
Transfer your tasty sausage bites to a serving plate. For an easy snack, insert toothpicks into each piece so everyone can grab them easily. If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve these BBQ sausage bites warm and watch them disappear quickly! They are an awesome appetizer or a fun party snack.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Smoked Sausage Bites
Can I Use Any Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa and andouille work great, you can also use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or any smoked sausage of your choice. Just make sure they’re fully cooked prior to sautéing!
Can I Make These Sausage Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage bites and toss them in BBQ sauce in advance! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Sausage Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked sausage bites! Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They should last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
