We’ve always loved the smoky charm of Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies, a Southern staple that’s perfect for effortless entertaining. Hailing from the heart of the Carolinas, these bite-sized sausages pack a flavorful punch with their rich, tangy notes that evoke backyard barbecues and family gatherings.
Our recipe brings that authentic taste straight to your kitchen, making it simple to whip up a crowd-pleaser that’ll impress at any event. Whether you’re hosting a game day or a casual get-together, it’s the ultimate easy appetizer we can’t get enough of.
Ingredients
In our kitchen, we love highlighting the star of this Southern classic: Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies. These bite-sized sausages bring authentic smoky flavors that make any gathering memorable. Below, we list the ingredients in the order we use them, with prep specifics for easy preparation.
- Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies: 1 package (about 12-16 ounces) – Use these straight from the package for their ready-to-cook convenience.
- Barbecue sauce: 1 cup – Opt for a tangy, vinegar-based variety to capture true Carolina essence; we recommend mixing it first for the base glaze.
- Brown sugar: ½ cup – Packed and measured for sweetness that balances the smokiness; stir it in next to dissolve easily.
- Yellow mustard: 2 tablespoons – Adds a sharp tang; prepare by squeezing it directly into the mix.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped – Dice it fresh for added crunch and flavor depth.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Mince just before adding to preserve its pungent aroma.
- Apple cider vinegar: ¼ cup – For that signature Carolina kick; measure it out to enhance the tang without overwhelming.
Equipment Needed
We find that having the right equipment makes preparing our Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies recipe effortless and fun, ensuring each step from mixing sauces to cooking is precise and enjoyable.
Essential Tools
- Skillet or saucepan: A 10-inch non-stick skillet is ideal for browning the smokies evenly and simmering the sauce to perfection, helping us achieve that authentic Southern barbecue taste.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Use a set of standard measuring cups and spoons to accurately portion ingredients like brown sugar and apple cider vinegar, guaranteeing consistent results every time.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl allows us to combine the tangy barbecue sauce, minced garlic, and chopped onion without mess, enhancing the dish’s aroma and flavor profile.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Sturdy tongs help us handle the hot smokies safely while stirring, preventing them from breaking apart and ensuring even coating in the sauce.
- Baking sheet (optional): If we’re opting for oven baking, a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil makes cleanup easy and lets us achieve a crispy exterior on our smokies.
Instructions
We make preparing our Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies straightforward and fun, building on the ingredients and equipment we’ve gathered to deliver authentic Southern flavors in every bite.
Prepare the Ingredients
We start by prepping our ingredients in the order they’ll be used to ensure smooth cooking. First, measure 1 cup tangy barbecue sauce, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, 1 medium onion finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves minced, and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, we combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic, onion, and vinegar, whisking until the mixture forms a glossy, aromatic sauce that promises a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Cook the Smokies
Next, we cook the smokies to lock in their smoky essence and enhance the flavors. Heat a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 package (about 12 ounces) of Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies, browning them for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to achieve an even, crispy exterior that releases a mouthwatering sizzle. Pour the prepared sauce over the smokies, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the smokies, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma of garlic, onion, and vinegar tang.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we assemble and serve the smokies for a presentation that impresses. Using sturdy tongs, we transfer the hot smokies to a rimmed baking sheet or serving platter, ensuring each piece is generously glazed with the sticky sauce for a glossy finish. Arrange them neatly and serve immediately, letting the vibrant flavors of sweet brown sugar and sharp mustard shine through to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that evokes the heart of Carolina barbecues.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies even more convenient for your next gathering we outline simple steps to prepare them in advance. This approach lets you focus on enjoying the event while delivering that authentic smoky and tangy flavor.
Preparing the Smokies Ahead
Follow these steps to get everything ready without sacrificing taste:
- Combine the sauce ingredients first: In a medium mixing bowl whisk together the barbecue sauce brown sugar mustard garlic onion and apple cider vinegar until smooth and glossy. This creates the base for our flavorful glaze.
- Cook the smokies partially: Heat your 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat and brown the Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies for 5-7 minutes until they develop a golden crust. Avoid fully cooking them at this stage to prevent overcooking later.
- Mix and cool the components: Add the prepared sauce to the skillet with the browned smokies and simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat them evenly. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the fresh tangy notes of our Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies. Use airtight containers or resealable bags to preserve quality.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container to keep flavors intact and prevent drying out. |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Freeze in a single layer first then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for easy reheating. |
Reheating for Serving
When you’re ready to serve reheat the smokies to restore their vibrant Carolina barbecue essence:
- From the refrigerator: Transfer the stored mixture to a skillet and warm over low heat for 5-10 minutes stirring occasionally until heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat in a skillet as above or in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes on a rimmed baking sheet until piping hot.
By following these instructions you’ll ensure our Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies remain a crowd-pleaser ready to impress at any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing how Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies bring that authentic Southern vibe to your table. They’re more than just a recipe—they’re a simple way to create memorable moments with friends and family.
As we wrap up, remember these smokies let you effortlessly impress at any gathering. Give them a try and make them your go-to appetizer—we’re confident you’ll savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies?
Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies are bite-sized sausages packed with smoky flavor and a tangy twist, perfect for Southern-style appetizers. They’re ready-to-cook links that evoke memories of barbecues and family gatherings, making them a crowd-pleasing choice for events like game days.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies as the star, plus a tangy barbecue sauce, brown sugar for sweetness, yellow mustard for sharpness, chopped onion and minced garlic for crunch and aroma, and apple cider vinegar for that authentic Carolina tang. These simple ingredients combine to create a flavorful glaze.
How do you prepare Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies?
Start by mixing barbecue sauce, brown sugar, mustard, garlic, onion, and vinegar in a bowl. Brown the smokies in a skillet, add the sauce, and simmer until glazed. It’s a straightforward process that takes about 20-30 minutes, bringing Southern barbecue vibes right to your kitchen for easy entertaining.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
A 10-inch non-stick skillet or saucepan is essential for cooking, along with measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. Use a mixing bowl to combine ingredients and tongs for handling. Optionally, a rimmed baking sheet works for oven baking, ensuring easy cleanup and even results.
Can I make Carolina Pride Cocktail Smokies ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and partially cook the smokies in advance, then cool and store. This makes them ideal for gatherings, saving time on the day of your event while keeping flavors fresh.
How should I store and reheat the smokies?
Store cooked smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm refrigerated ones in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly; for frozen, thaw first and reheat until hot, maintaining that smoky taste.