These BBQ sausage bites are a hit at any gathering! Juicy sausages are cut into tasty pieces, then tossed in a zesty barbecue sauce for a fun snack everyone will enjoy.
They are perfect for parties or game nights. I love serving them with toothpicks, and believe me, they disappear fast! Just watch out for your friends – they might eat them all! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa and andouille are both excellent choices for this recipe. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. Simply slice it into rounds just like you would with pork sausage.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce for convenience. If you prefer homemade, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to create a quick version tailored to your taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re out of brown sugar, regular sugar can be used, but consider a splash of molasses for that rich flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a nice umami kick. If you don’t have it on hand, soy sauce can be a good substitute, giving a similar depth of flavor.
Garlic and Onion Powders: These provide great seasoning. If you’re fresh out, minced fresh garlic and finely chopped onion can work in a pinch, just use a little bit more to ensure adequate flavor.
How Do You Ensure Flavorful Sausage Bites?
To make sure your BBQ sausage bites are flavorful, focus on how you coat the sausage. Mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly before tossing them with the sausage. This ensures every piece is packed with flavor.
- Combine the sauces and spices well in a large bowl before adding sausage. This helps ensure an even coating.
- Don’t skip stirring halfway through baking! This prevents sticking and helps the sauce caramelize evenly.
- Let them cool slightly before serving; this makes them easier to eat, especially with toothpicks!
How to Make BBQ Sausage Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sausage Bites:
- 2 lbs smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into bite-sized rounds
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Toothpicks for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes for baking. In total, you should expect to spend about 40 minutes making these delicious BBQ sausage bites, perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your BBQ sausage bites will cook evenly and get that nice, caramelized finish.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use a spoon or whisk to stir everything together until it’s well blended. You want a smooth mixture that smells amazing!
3. Coat the Sausage:
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the bowl with the sauce. Toss the sausage pieces gently until they are all evenly coated in that tasty sauce mixture. Don’t rush—make sure each piece gets a nice glaze!
4. Bake the Sausage Bites:
Transfer the coated sausage and sauce into a large baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet. Spread everything out evenly to ensure even cooking. Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through baking so all sides get a chance to caramelize!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sausages are cooked and the sauce is bubbling, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool slightly—this will help avoid burning your fingers! If you’d like, serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Enjoy your tasty BBQ Sausage Bites as a delightful appetizer or a party snack! Your friends and family won’t be able to get enough!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage for a leaner option or pork sausage for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of sausage, so check for doneness!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like it spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy barbecue sauce. For a milder flavor, opt for sweet or mild sauces and reduce the amount of garlic powder, if desired.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover BBQ sausage bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and sauce mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven for the best results.
