Get ready for an appetizer sensation! Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies offer a flavor experience you won’t forget. These beloved mini sausages are simmered to perfection in a delectable homemade Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce, infused with the subtle kick of red onion and serrano peppers. Whether you’re preparing them on your stovetop, grill, smoker, in your oven, or even a slow cooker, these irresistible bites are guaranteed to be the first to disappear at any gathering!
Can you smell that intoxicating aroma? It’s the unmistakable scent of good times, delicious food, and the camaraderie that only a great tailgate can bring. After what feels like an eternity, I am absolutely thrilled to dive back into the spirit of a classic Lincoln, Nebraska Husker Tailgate! Today, we’re kicking off the season with an exceptional new Dorothy Lynch tailgate recipe that promises to be an absolute showstopper.
Tailgating and barbecue food are a match made in heaven. The smoky, savory, and often sweet flavors of BBQ are synonymous with outdoor celebrations, sports events, and casual get-togethers. While you can infuse that incredible BBQ essence into countless dishes, these particular BBQ Little Smokies stand out as truly extraordinary. Forget any preconceived notions about typical cocktail sausages; this recipe elevates them to an entirely new level.
Unlike other generic little smokie recipes you might encounter, ours features a secret ingredient that transforms the entire dish: a rich, homemade Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce. This unique sauce is what sets these little smokies apart, infusing them with a depth of flavor that’s both sweet and tangy, complemented by finely diced red onion and just the right amount of heat from serrano peppers. The result is a truly remarkable appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
This recipe is proudly sponsored by Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. All opinions expressed and my genuine love for their Nebraska-Made Home Style Dressing & Condiment are entirely my own.
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Little Smokies: The Undisputed King of Appetizers
There’s a reason why little smokies consistently vanish in mere minutes whenever I bring them to a potluck or serve them at a gathering. They possess an undeniable charm that appeals to everyone, regardless of age or dietary preference. But beyond their universal appeal, one of their greatest attributes, especially for the host, is their incredible simplicity. These tiny sausages are a testament to how effortlessly you can create a crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
While I’m showcasing them today as the ultimate tailgate recipe, this appetizer classic transcends specific occasions. They are perfect for casual snacking on a lazy afternoon, make fantastic hors d’oeuvres for elegant holiday parties, or can even be a fun addition to a weeknight meal. Their versatility makes them a staple in any host’s repertoire, ensuring you’re always ready for an impromptu get-together or a planned celebration.
Crafting Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce from Scratch: A Game Changer
Let’s talk about the magic that happens when you take the time to create your own barbecue sauce, especially for something as beloved as a package of beef little smokies. While grabbing a bottle of store-bought sauce is convenient, I urge you to trust me on this: homemade sauce, particularly this Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce, offers a depth of flavor and freshness that simply cannot be replicated. It transforms the dish from good to absolutely extraordinary.
The best part? This isn’t a complicated, gourmet sauce requiring exotic ingredients. In fact, you likely have most of the basic components in your pantry right now. The real secret weapon, the ingredient that elevates this sauce to legendary status, is Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. By substituting it for the ketchup I typically use in my barbecue sauce recipe, I discovered a whole new dimension of flavor. Its distinctive tomato base, combined with its signature sweet and tangy profile, is the perfect foundation for an unbelievably delicious homemade barbecue sauce.
The Versatility of Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment
You might be wondering, “Why turn a condiment into a condiment?” The answer lies in the unparalleled versatility of Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment. Its unique sweet, savory, and slightly spicy profile has an incredible ability to enhance and improve countless sauces and seasonings. I’ve personally used it to create fantastic homemade taco seasoning and taco sauce, a rich pizza sauce, a luscious ham glaze, festive glazed meatballs, and, of course, the now-infamous Sloppy Dorothy Recipe, which rocketed into my top ten recipes in less than a month. Seriously, they are that good, and Dorothy Lynch is the secret behind their success.
How to Make Your Own Dorothy’s BBQ Sauce: Simple Steps to Flavorful Success
Creating this outstanding homemade barbecue sauce is remarkably simple, requiring just a few common pantry staples. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself eager to slather this delicious sauce on everything from ribs and chicken to pulled pork, and of course, our signature little smokies! The rich, balanced flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile for all your grilling and cooking needs.
Essential Ingredients for Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce
To whip up a batch of this fantastic barbecue sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment (the star!)
- Dark brown sugar (for deep, molasses-like sweetness)
- Minced garlic (aromatic foundation)
- Soy sauce (adds umami depth)
- Worcestershire sauce (complex savory notes)
- Honey (natural sweetness and gloss)
- Sriracha (for a touch of heat, adjust to your preference)
- Apple cider vinegar (tangy balance)
- Cornstarch (optional, for thickening to your desired consistency)
(You’ll find precise measurements in the comprehensive recipe card at the conclusion of this post.)
Simply combine all the listed ingredients in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well combined and flavors meld. If you prefer a thicker sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a small amount of water) and stir it into the simmering sauce, cooking for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
This recipe yields approximately one cup of rich, flavorful homemade BBQ sauce – perfect for our little smokies and plenty of other dishes!
Pin This Dorothy’s BBQ Sauce Recipe for Easy Access!
Love this incredible homemade BBQ sauce? Don’t let it get lost in your bookmarks! Make it easy to find whenever inspiration strikes by adding the link to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. Pin it now before you move on to crafting those delicious little smokies!
More Irresistible BBQ Recipes from An Affair from the Heart:
If you’re as passionate about delicious barbecue as we are, you’ll love these other fan-favorite recipes that bring big flavors to your table:
- Dorothy’s BBQ Pork Chops (perfectly glazed and tender, pictured above)
- Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Ribs (fall-off-the-bone tender with a sweet, bubbly kick)
- Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches (tropical flavors meet easy slow cooker magic)
- Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Sandwiches in the Crock Pot (another slow cooker favorite for effortless deliciousness)
Mastering the BEST BBQ Little Smokies: A Guide to Perfect Preparation
With your sensational homemade Dorothy Lynch BBQ sauce ready, it’s time to transform those little smokies into an unforgettable appetizer! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can prepare these delightful bites using a variety of cooking methods to suit your preference, equipment, or the occasion. Whether you prefer the classic stovetop, the convenience of your oven or slow cooker, or the smoky flavors imparted by a grill or smoker, these little smokies will shine.
Key Ingredients for Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies
Gather these simple ingredients to create your irresistible BBQ Little Smokies:
- Dorothy’s BBQ Sauce (your freshly made batch!)
- Beef Little Smokies (pre-cooked for convenience)
- Red onion (for a hint of sweet and savory sharpness)
- Serrano pepper (adds a delightful, controlled heat)
To begin, add your glorious homemade Dorothy’s BBQ sauce, the beef little smokies, chopped red onion, and diced serrano pepper to a sturdy skillet. This combination is where the magic truly begins, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.
Give all the ingredients a good stir to ensure the smokies are thoroughly coated in the rich, flavorful sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer gently for about 15 minutes. During this time, the little smokies will heat through completely, and the red onions and serrano peppers will soften to a tender, caramelized perfection, infusing the sauce with their aromatic essence.
For an extra layer of irresistible flavor, try preparing these on your smoker! The added smoke enhances the rich barbecue taste, making them an absolutely perfect choice for tailgating events where smoky flavors are always a hit. The convenience of cooking outdoors adds to the festive atmosphere.
Pro Tip for Tailgating: If you’re heading to a tailgate and don’t want to bother with lugging around and cleaning a cast iron skillet, simply make these little smokies in a disposable aluminum tray directly on your grill top. When the party’s over and the last smokie is devoured, you can just toss the tray for effortless cleanup!
Serve these delightful BBQ Little Smokies warm, accompanied by a generous supply of toothpicks for easy grabbing. Watch as your guests flock to them, enjoying every sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy bite!
Adore This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe slip away! If you love these Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies, be sure to pin them to your favorite Pinterest recipe board. It’s the easiest way to ensure you can find and recreate this crowd-pleasing appetizer again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions About Little Smokies
- Are little smokies pre-cooked? Yes, little smokies are indeed pre-cooked during their manufacturing process. While they are safe to eat straight from the package, it’s highly recommended to heat them thoroughly before serving. Heating not only enhances their flavor and texture but also provides an extra layer of food safety by killing any potential bacteria that might have been transferred during packaging.
- How long do Little Smokies keep in the refrigerator after opening? Once a package of little smokies has been opened, it’s best to consume them within 3 to 4 days. Always ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container and kept refrigerated to maintain freshness and safety.
- What pairs well with BBQ Little Smokies? The beauty of BBQ Little Smokies is their versatility! When serving them as an appetizer at a party, I often complement them with a vibrant charcuterie board, offering a variety of cheeses, crackers, fruits, and nuts. A refreshing cold dip, like my popular Dill Pickle Dip, also makes a fantastic accompaniment. If you’re looking to enjoy them as part of a more substantial meal, they’re absolutely delicious alongside Dorothy’s Potato Salad – a truly satisfying combination!
What Exactly Is Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment? The Nebraska Story
For those who might be unfamiliar with the legendary Dorothy Lynch Salad Dressing & Condiment, allow me to introduce you to a true culinary gem and share its fascinating origins. This iconic dressing is more than just a condiment; it’s a piece of Nebraska history and a beloved staple in countless households.
Dorothy Lynch first gained popularity in the 1940s at the Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. Dorothy herself crafted this homemade dressing for the restaurant, and it quickly captivated the palates of locals. Its fame grew to such an extent that patrons would bring their own bottles to be filled with this irresistible dressing. Today, this renowned dressing is produced in a sprawling 64,000 square-foot facility in Duncan, Nebraska, a town with a population of just 351! Dorothy Lynch is available in two popular varieties: Home Style and Light & Lean. Furthermore, it boasts impressive dietary credentials, being free of MSG, cholesterol, and trans fats, and is certified gluten-free, making it a wholesome choice for many.
Dispelling Misconceptions: The Unique Flavor of Dorothy Lynch
Due to its reddish-orange hue, many people might mistakenly assume Dorothy Lynch tastes like traditional French dressing. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While most French dressings are oil-based, Dorothy Lynch stands apart with its distinctive tomato base. It offers a thick, creamy texture and a wonderfully balanced sweet and subtly spicy flavor profile that is universally appealing. It genuinely tastes homemade, and for those of us from Nebraska, it evokes a comforting sense of home and tradition.
Where to Find Your Own Bottle of Dorothy Lynch Dressing
Ready to experience the magic of Dorothy Lynch for yourself? You can find Dorothy Lynch Dressing at most grocery stores across Nebraska, and it’s also available at select grocery stores nationwide, including major retailers like Walmart and Hy-Vee. If you’re having trouble locating it locally, don’t worry! You can conveniently stock your pantry with Dorothy Lynch by shopping online through Buy Nebraska or directly from Amazon.
Stay connected with Dorothy Lynch for an endless stream of delicious recipes throughout the year by following them on their official website, and their social media channels including Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter.
EXPLORE ALL MY DELICIOUS DOROTHY LYNCH RECIPES
Now, grab your bottle of Dorothy Lynch, and let’s get cooking these unforgettable BBQ Little Smokies! Enjoy every flavorful bite. 
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Print Recipe
Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies
Equipment
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Dorothy Lynch Home Style Salad Dressing
- AmazonBasics Enameled Cast Iron Covered Dutch Oven, 6-Quart, Blue
- Lodge 3.6 Quart Enamel Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid (Carribbean Blue)
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
For the Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (add more if you desire extra spice)
- 1/2 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)
For the Little Smokies
- 2 12 ounce packages Beef Little Smokies
- 1 Serrano pepper (chopped small)
- 1/2 of a small red onion (chopped)
Instructions
- To prepare the Dorothy Lynch BBQ Sauce: Combine all of the sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- To cook the Little Smokies on the stovetop: Add the prepared Dorothy Lynch BBQ sauce, beef little smokies, chopped red onion, and diced serrano pepper to a large skillet. Give everything a good stir to ensure the smokies are well coated. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Your Dorothy’s BBQ Little Smokies are ready to serve when they are thoroughly heated through, and the onion and serrano pepper have softened to a tender, flavorful state.
Notes
Oven Method: To prepare in the oven, combine the little smokies, sauce, onion, and pepper in a casserole dish or an oven-safe cast-iron skillet. Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until heated through and tender.
Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally if possible, until the smokies are hot and the vegetables are tender.
Storage: Any leftover BBQ Little Smokies or excess BBQ sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 4 days.