Are you looking for some delicious and easy-to-make dinner ideas that are perfect for any occasion? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Lil Smokies dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. These bite-sized sausages are a staple in many households, but they can get a little repetitive when served plain. That’s why we’ve gathered some of our favorite recipes that incorporate Lil Smokies into main courses, side dishes, and even desserts! From classic comfort foods to international twists, these recipes will inspire you to think outside the box (or sausage casing). So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to sink your teeth into these scrumptious creations!
Honey Garlic Lil Smokies Stir-Fry
Honey Garlic Lil Smokies Stir-Fry Recipe
Summary: Sweet and savory, this quick and easy stir-fry combines the flavors of honey, garlic, and Lil Smokies sausage with crunchy vegetables for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Lil Smokies sausages
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup snow peas, sliced
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the Lil Smokies sausages and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the mixed bell peppers and snow peas to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Return the Lil Smokies sausages to the skillet and stir in the honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors are combined.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Lil Smokies Skewers with Pineapple
Elevate your BBQ game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines juicy Lil’ Smokies sausages with sweet pineapple chunks. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil’ Smokies sausages (about 20-25 count)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a Lil’ Smokie onto each skewer, leaving a small space at the top.
3. Add 2-3 pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of brown sugar on either side of the sausage.
4. Brush the top of each skewer with BBQ sauce and drizzle with honey.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh pineapple wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Ranch Lil Smokies Pasta
A creamy, savory twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines tender Lil Smokies with a rich ranch-inspired sauce and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 1 lb. Lil Smokies
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp. dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add Lil Smokies; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and parsley. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, Lil Smokies, and creamy ranch sauce in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Lil Smokies Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this sweet and spicy twist on a classic! Sweet and spicy flavors combine to create a unique and delicious taco experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 1 can of pineapple rings
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of sriracha sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Lil Smokies according to package instructions, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha sauce.
4. Brush the glaze over the cooked sausages during the last minute of cooking.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing a sausage on each tortilla, topping with pineapple rings, lettuce, tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lil Smokies and Cheddar Stuffed Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of Lil Smokies sausage with melted cheddar cheese and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 package of Lil Smokies sausage (mini smoked sausages)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Stuff each pepper with a Lil Smoky sausage, dividing them evenly among the four peppers.
4. Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Lil Smokies with Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your game day spread with this sweet and savory twist on classic Lil Smokies. The combination of maple glaze, tender sweet potatoes, and juicy lil smokies will be a touchdown with your friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 1 package Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. While sweet potatoes are baking, prepare glaze by whisking together maple syrup and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove Lil Smokies from package and place on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush Lil Smokies with the maple glaze, making sure they’re fully coated.
8. Place Lil Smokies on the oven rack above the sweet potatoes for an additional 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lil Smokies and Rice Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or family gathering. This Lil Smokies and Rice Casserole combines the flavors of sweet and savory with a crispy, crunchy topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of uncooked white rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1 pound of Lil Smokies sausages
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 cup of crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the water.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Lil Smokies sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked rice, sausage mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Top with crushed crackers and drizzle with melted butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Lil Smokies Dip with Celery Sticks
Get ready to spice up your snack time with this creamy and addictive dip!
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 cup Lil Smokies sausages, cooked and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Celery sticks, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the ranch dressing and Frank’s RedHot sauce; stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the cooked Lil Smokies sausages.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve with celery sticks.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready when you are.
Lil Smokies and Mashed Potato Bowls
Elevate your comfort food game with these adorable Lil Smokies and mashed potato bowls! Tender mini meatballs are served atop creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of Lil Smokies
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chives, grated cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Bake Lil Smokies according to package instructions.
3. Boil diced potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange mashed potatoes in bowls or ramekins.
5. Place a few Lil Smokies on top of the mashed potatoes.
6. Add desired toppings (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Lil Smokies Stir-Fry with Veggies
Quickly stir-fry juicy Lil Smokies with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, mixed veggies, and served over fluffy rice. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Lil Smokies
– 2 tbsp Teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place the Lil Smokies on it.
3. Bake for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Add cooked Lil Smokies to the skillet and stir to coat with the teriyaki mixture.
8. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lil Smokies and Cornbread Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package Lil Smokies
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add cornbread mix and stir until just combined.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Arrange Lil Smokies in the prepared baking dish.
5. Pour cornbread mixture over the sausages, spreading evenly to cover.
6. Drizzle honey over the top of the cornbread.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Lil Smokies and Broccoli Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the savory flavor of Lil Smokies with the nutritional benefits of broccoli, all wrapped up in a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package Lil Smokies
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook Lil Smokies according to package instructions until browned.
3. In a separate pot of boiling water, blanch broccoli for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange cooked Lil Smokies and broccoli in the dish.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the meat and vegetables. Top with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lil Smokies and Gravy Over Biscuits
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4-6 biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Lil Smokies to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. While sausage is cooking, whisk together flour and milk in a separate bowl. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Split biscuits in half and place them in a baking dish. Spoon Lil Smokies and gravy over the biscuits.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lil Smokies and Macaroni Cheese Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Lil Smokies, macaroni, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) Lil Smokies
– 1/4 cup butter
– 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, combine milk, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni and Lil Smokies to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Add the macaroni mixture and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lil Smokies and Potato Hash Skillet
Get ready for a hearty and satisfying one-pot meal with this easy-to-make recipe! Lil Smokies and potato hash come together in perfect harmony, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of Lil Smokies
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
3. Add the Lil Smokies to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lil Smokies and Green Bean Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the savory flavor of Lil Smokies with the simplicity of green beans and a crunchy topping. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of Lil Smokies
– 2 cups of fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Lil Smokies according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked Lil Smokies in a single layer.
6. Pour the green bean mixture over the Lil Smokies.
7. Sprinkle the French-fried onions and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lil Smokies and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your party snacks with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the savory flavors of Lil Smokies and melted cheese stuffed inside tender mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Lil Smokies mini meatballs (about 20-25 count)
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety, cleaned and stemmed)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with a Lil Smokie mini meatball.
4. Top each meatball with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with breadcrumb mixture.
5. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the mushrooms.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lil Smokies and Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines the savory goodness of Lil Smokies with the nutty flavor of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 12-15 Lil Smokies (mini smoked sausages)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cooked quinoa, and Lil Smokies to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa-Lil Smokies mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 18 delicious Lil Smokies recipes! From savory stir-fries and pasta dishes to sweet and spicy tacos, there’s something for everyone. Try Honey Garlic Lil Smokies Stir-Fry or BBQ Lil Smokies Skewers with Pineapple for a flavor-packed meal. Or, go comfort food route with Creamy Ranch Lil Smokies Pasta or Cheesy Lil Smokies and Broccoli Casserole. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of this tasty ingredient. Get cooking and enjoy!
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