Cocktail sausages steal the spotlight at any gathering, gleaming on skewers and disappearing fast from the buffet. Juicy turkey bites are coated in a sticky honey mustard glaze, warmed with smoked paprika and a squeeze of bright lemon. Tossed in a tangy apple cider reduction with fresh thyme and spring onions, each bite bursts with bold, playful flavor. Ready in just fifteen minutes, they turn your kitchen into a lively hub of laughter and shared stories. Simple to make yet impossible to forget, this crowd pleasing appetizer always leaves guests asking for more.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This cocktail sausages
- Perfectly bite-sized for easy snacking.
- Quick to prepare, ready in just 15 minutes.
- Versatile flavors to suit any palate.
- Great for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
- Kid-friendly and a hit with all ages!
cocktail sausages
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter to the pan.
- Step 2: Add the cocktail sausages to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Step 4: Pour the honey-mustard glaze over the sausages. Stir to coat them evenly.
- Step 5: Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the sausages are golden and glazed.
- Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbs | 5g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious cocktail sausages!
- 500g cocktail sausages – your main ingredient, bite-sized and flavorful.
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter – to add richness and help with cooking.
- 2 tbsp honey – provides a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – adds a tangy kick.
- Salt – to taste.
- Pepper – to taste.
How to Make Cocktail Sausages
This easy cocktail sausages recipe is perfect for a quick party appetizer. With just 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to serve. Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter to the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Sausages
Add the cocktail sausages to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
Step 4: Glaze the Sausages
Pour the honey-mustard glaze over the sausages. Stir to coat them evenly.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the sausages are golden and glazed.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Appetizer / snacks |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Dietary | None specified |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Hot |
Pro Tips for Making Cocktail Sausages
- Opt for chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter option.
- Marinate the sausages in a mix of honey and mustard for added flavor.
- Cook them in a hot skillet for a nice golden-brown finish.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for a fun twist.
- Keep them warm in a slow cooker for easy serving at parties.
How to Serve this cocktail sausages
- Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Pair with a zesty mustard dip for a flavor kick.
- Offer alongside a fresh veggie platter for a colorful spread.
- Try them in mini slider buns for a fun twist.
- Serve with sweet chili sauce for a sweet and spicy combo.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
- Include a side of tangy barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Mix with pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to store your cocktail sausages for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow sausages to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool sausages completely before freezing.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or foil tightly.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Ensure they are heated through before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What exactly are cocktail sausages?
Cocktail sausages are small, bite-sized sausages that are typically served as appetizers at parties and gatherings. They are often made from a variety of meats, including chicken, turkey, or beef, and are seasoned to enhance their flavor. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking and easy to enjoy with toothpicks or skewers.
2. Are cocktail sausages the same as little smokies?
While cocktail sausages and little smokies are similar in that they are both small sausages, they are not exactly the same. Little smokies are a specific brand of cocktail sausages that are typically smoked and have a distinct flavor. Cocktail sausages can vary in taste and preparation, and they may not always be smoked. Both are great for parties, but little smokies have their own unique appeal.
3. Are cocktail sausages a healthy snack?
Cocktail sausages can be a convenient snack option, but their healthiness depends on the ingredients used. If you choose sausages made from lean meats and with minimal additives, they can be a better choice. However, they can also be high in sodium and preservatives, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation and pair them with healthier sides like veggies or whole-grain crackers.
4. What’s the difference between sausage and cocktail sausage?
The main difference between sausage and cocktail sausage is their size and intended use. Sausages are typically larger and can be served as a main dish, while cocktail sausages are smaller, designed for snacking, and often served at parties. Additionally, cocktail sausages are usually pre-cooked and can be easily reheated, making them a quick and convenient appetizer option.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up these easy cocktail sausages is like a warm hug for your taste buds! In just 15 minutes, you can create a delightful party appetizer that everyone will love. So gather your friends, enjoy the deliciousness, and relish the joy of sharing good food. Trust me, this simple recipe will become a cherished favorite!