Introduction

Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, effortlessly combining the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. These bite-sized treats are wrapped in smoky bacon, drenched in a tangy, flavorful sauce, and cooked until golden perfection, making them a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether served at a game night, barbecue, or family reunion, these smoky little morsels will have everyone coming back for more.

The first time I made Mississippi Lil Smokies, I was blown away by how quickly they disappeared from the plate. Wrapping each little sausage in bacon and smothering them in that irresistible sauce was simple, but the results were absolutely mouthwatering. As they cooked, the kitchen filled with the smoky scent of sizzling bacon and the tangy aroma of the sauce, leaving me eager to taste the magic I had created. The first bite was pure bliss—the crispy bacon, the sweet and spicy sauce, and the perfectly cooked smokies made for a combination that was simply irresistible.

What I love most about Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies is how versatile they are. They’re perfect for a casual snack while watching a game, a showstopper at a potluck, or an appetizer that’ll get the party started. You can adjust the heat level to your liking, adding more spice for those who like it hot or dialing it back for a milder version. No matter when or how you serve them, these smoky bites will be the star of the show, leaving everyone asking for the recipe and coming back for seconds.

Perfect for:

Game days
Family gatherings
BBQs and cookouts
Cocktail parties
Holiday appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies will become your favorite appetizer:

Flavor Explosion: The smoky sausages combined with a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce create a mouthwatering flavor that’s both bold and irresistible.
Bacon-Wrapped Goodness: The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch to each bite, perfectly complementing the smokiness of the lil smokies and the rich sauce.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it a great option when you’re short on time but want something delicious.
Perfect for Parties: With their finger-food nature and incredible taste, these lil smokies are a crowd-pleasing favorite at any event.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these smokies in advance, allowing you to relax and enjoy your gathering without worrying about last-minute cooking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies:

1 (14 oz) package of lil smokies sausages
1 lb bacon, cut into thirds
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Ingredient Highlights

Lil Smokies: These miniature sausages are flavorful and have a nice smoky taste, making them the perfect base for this recipe.
Bacon: The bacon not only adds savory flavor but also becomes perfectly crispy as it cooks, complementing the tender smokies.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness to the sauce, balancing the tang of Dijon mustard and the heat of the hot sauce.
Dijon Mustard: The tangy and slightly spicy flavor of Dijon mustard is key to creating a delicious sauce that coats the smokies perfectly.
Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and helps to thicken the sauce for a glaze-like consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies:

Prepare the Lil Smokies:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Wrap the Smokies in Bacon: Cut the bacon into thirds and wrap each lil smokie with a piece of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped smokies in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.

Prepare the Sauce:

Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Coat the Smokies:

Brush the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the bacon-wrapped smokies, making sure they’re evenly coated. You can also drizzle the sauce directly over them with a spoon for more control.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the smokies are heated through. Occasionally, baste the smokies with the sauce during baking to ensure they stay flavorful and moist.

Serve:

Serve and Enjoy: Once the bacon is crispy and the smokies are golden brown, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a party appetizer or snack.

How to Serve

Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies can be served in several ways to enhance your meal or gathering:

Serve as Finger Food: Arrange the smokies on a platter with toothpicks, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
With Dipping Sauces: Pair with extra sauces like ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a spicy mustard dip for added flavor.
On a Charcuterie Board: Include these lil smokies on a charcuterie board along with cheeses, crackers, and fruit for a complete spread.
As a Main Course: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a salad for a more substantial meal.
For Game Day: Set up a buffet-style serving with your favorite game-day snacks for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make your Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies even better:

Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon ensures a crispier texture that holds up well when wrapped around the smokies.
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
Keep Them Warm: If serving at a party, keep the lil smokies warm in a slow cooker set to low after baking, so guests can enjoy them throughout the event.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the bacon while baking. If it gets too dark, cover the smokies with foil and continue baking until the bacon becomes crispy.
Use High-Quality Sausages: Opt for high-quality lil smokies for the best flavor. Look for options with natural casing for a firmer texture and better taste.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies:

BBQ Lil Smokies: Swap the sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
Maple Bacon Lil Smokies: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a sweet and aromatic flavor.
Sweet and Spicy Lil Smokies: Add more hot sauce or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Cheesy Lil Smokies: After baking, top the smokies with shredded cheese and bake for a few extra minutes until the cheese melts.
Teriyaki Lil Smokies: Replace the Dijon mustard with soy sauce and add a bit of ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Lil Smokies: Toss the cooked smokies in a garlic butter sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy version.
Cajun Lil Smokies: Add Cajun seasoning to the sauce for a zesty, spiced-up version.
Honey Mustard Lil Smokies: Use honey mustard as the base for the sauce for a tangy, sweet flavor.
Buffalo Lil Smokies: Toss the cooked smokies in buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy bite.
Herb-Infused Lil Smokies: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an herby twist.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: These lil smokies can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze them before baking, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies easier:

Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet will help you arrange the smokies in a single layer for even cooking.
Parchment Paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Toothpicks: Toothpicks are necessary for securing the bacon around the smokies.
Small Mixing Bowl: A small bowl is perfect for preparing the sauce and mixing the ingredients.
Basting Brush: A basting brush will help you evenly coat the smokies with sauce during baking.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use regular cocktail sausages or turkey sausage if you prefer a different flavor or want a lighter option.
Can I make these smokies in a slow cooker?
Yes, after wrapping the smokies and preparing the sauce, you can place them in a slow cooker on low heat for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally for even coating.
Can I use regular mustard instead of Dijon mustard?
Yes, yellow mustard can be substituted, but Dijon mustard adds a tangier, more refined flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the smokies in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve these smokies with?
Serve them with a side of fresh vegetables, potato salad, or coleslaw to complement the smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Tasty Mississippi Lil Smokies are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. With bacon-wrapped lil smokies soaked in a tangy sauce, they’re sure to be a hit at your next event. Whether you’re making them for a casual gathering or a festive celebration, these little bites are sure to disappear fast. Simple to prepare and easy to customize, they’ll quickly become your go-to snack for any occasion.

The smoky, savory bacon pairs perfectly with the rich sauce, while the lil smokies inside are packed with flavor. These tasty morsels are easy to serve and even easier to enjoy—perfect for a party or a fun family treat.

I can’t wait to see your Mississippi Lil Smokies! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you bring this delicious appetizer to life! Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made it your own. Happy cooking!