Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor, this easy BBQ sausage recipe is just what you need. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a weeknight dinner, these smoky sausage bites coated in tangy BBQ sauce are bound to be a hit. With minimal preparation and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
28 ounces skinless smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces (two 14-ounce packages)
1½ cups BBQ sauce
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sliced sausage pieces and BBQ sauce, ensuring the sausage is thoroughly coated.
3. Transfer the coated sausage pieces into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
4. Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Stir the sausage every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
5. Once the BBQ sauce has reduced and is bubbly, remove the dish from the oven.
6. Allow the sausage bites to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For crispier edges, you can broil the sausage for 2 to 3 minutes after baking. The sliced sausage can also be skewered and grilled until crispy.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sausage
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sliced sausage pieces and BBQ sauce. Ensure that the sausage is thoroughly coated in the sauce for maximum flavor.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the coated sausage pieces into the prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake the Sausage
Bake the dish uncovered for 45 minutes. Make sure to stir the sausage every 15 minutes. This will help maintain even cooking and prevent sticking to the baking dish.
5. Check for Doneness
After 45 minutes, once the BBQ sauce has reduced and is bubbling, carefully remove the dish from the oven.
6. Cool Before Serving
Allow the sausage bites to cool slightly before serving to make them easier to handle.
Notes
Crispier Edges
For crispier edges, you can broil the sausage for an additional 2 to 3 minutes after baking.
Grilling Option
The sliced sausage can also be skewered and grilled until crispy for a different cooking method.
Cook techniques
Coating the Sausage
Ensure the sausage pieces are well-coated in BBQ sauce by mixing them thoroughly in a medium-sized bowl. This helps to infuse flavor throughout the sausage.
Even Distribution in Baking Dish
Spread the sausage pieces evenly in the baking dish to promote uniform cooking and caramelization. Avoid overcrowding to allow heat circulation.
Stirring During Baking
Stir the sausage every 15 minutes while baking. This technique helps in even cooking and prevents the sausage from sticking to the bottom of the dish.
Broiling for Extra Crispiness
After baking, broil the sausage for 2 to 3 minutes for a crispy texture on the edges. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Grilling Option
For a different texture and flavor, skewer the sausage pieces and grill them until crispy. This adds a smoky flavor and a charred finish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute with different varieties of sausage according to your preference, such as chicken or turkey sausage.
What if I want to use less BBQ sauce?
You can adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your taste; just ensure the sausage pieces are still well-coated for flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat the sausage bites?
Yes, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F and heat until warmed through.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
This dish goes well with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a classic BBQ meal.
Conclusion
The smoked sausage bites with BBQ sauce make for a deliciously simple dish that is perfect for serving at gatherings or as a satisfying weeknight meal. The combination of smoky flavor and sweet, tangy BBQ sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and the straightforward preparation allows for dishes that are both hearty and easy to prepare.
BBQ Sausage Sliders
Combine the baked sausage bites on mini burger buns with coleslaw for a delightful slider option.
Sausage and Veggie Skewers
Alternate sausage pieces with bell peppers and onions on skewers. Grill or bake until everything is cooked through and slightly charred.
Sausage and Rice Casserole
Mix the cooked sausage bites with cooked rice, vegetables, and additional BBQ sauce for a hearty casserole dish.
BBQ Sausage Pasta
Toss the baked sausage bites with pasta, marinara sauce, and grated cheese for a savory pasta dish.
Smoked Sausage Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with sausage bites, cheese, and your choice of vegetables, then grill until crispy and golden.
Sausage-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Bake sweet potatoes and stuff them with the BBQ sausage mixture for a sweet and savory combination.
BBQ Sausage Pizza
Top your favorite pizza dough with BBQ sauce, sausage bites, cheese, and red onions. Bake until bubbly and golden.
