14 Appetizers with Little Smokies That Work for Any Occasion

Updated: Jan. 17, 2023

Cocktail weenies are a must on any party platter! These appetizers with little smokies will keep guests happy and full as they mingle. Be prepared to share these recipes!

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Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

For New Year’s, I used to make appetizers with little smokies rolled up with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

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Simmered Smoked Links

No one can resist appetizers with little smokies. They’re effortless to prepare with a sweet, spicy glaze, and they make a perfect party nibbler. Serve them on frilled toothpicks to make them extra fancy.
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Miniature Corn Dogs

Fun-sized corn dogs add a little "wow" factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana
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Hot Dog Sliders

An American favorite, hot dogs, turn into a fun treat that’s great for a laid-back party. They get three special treatments in this recipe: Chicago-style, Bavarian and south of the border. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Cranberry Meatballs and Sausage

Years ago, I found a version of this sausage and meatballs recipe in a cookbook. At first taste, my family judged it a keeper. The tangy, saucy meatballs are requested by our friends whenever I host card night. We also take the yummy dish on camping trips. —Marybell Lintott, Vernon, British Columbia
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Smoky Bacon Wraps

These cute little cocktail weenie and bacon bites are finger-licking good. They have a sweet and salty taste that’s fun for breakfast or as an appetizer. —Cara Flora, Kokomo, Indiana
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Little Pigs in a Hammock

Pigs in a blanket aren’t just for kids! Dijon and Camembert transform this children’s favorite into a version that’s perfect for grown-ups. —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, Colorado
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Slow-Cooked Smokies

I like to include these little smokies smothered in barbecue sauce on all my appetizer buffets since they're popular with both children and adults. —Sundra Hauck, Bogalusa, Louisiana
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Italian Meatballs and Sausages

Here’s a wonderful nibble for a tailgate or any family function. The appetizer with little smokies is so easy to prepare and also very tasty. I’ve doubled and even tripled the recipe for large groups. No matter how much I make, I always come home with an empty slow cooker. —Jan Kasinger, Graham, Washington
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Ring of Piggies

This charming plate of cocktail weenies looks like a holiday wreath when I drape fresh rosemary in the center. It’s a cute display for merry get-togethers. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
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Barbecue Sausage Bites

This irresistible appetizer pairs tangy pineapple with sweet barbecue sauce and three kinds of sausage (including cocktail weenies). It’ll tide over even the biggest appetites until dinner. —Rebekah Randolph, Greer, South Carolina
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Party Franks

These are the quintessential appetizers with little smokies. I prepare them often for holiday gatherings, weddings and family reunions. They’re convenient to serve at parties since the sauce can be made ahead and then reheated with the franks before serving. —Lucille Howell, Portland, Oregon
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Mini Mac & Cheese Dogs

We wanted to get creative with cocktail weenies, so we made a mac-and-cheesy appetizer with them! Pile on the extra cheese, relish and even bacon. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
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Barbecued Party Starters

These sweet and tangy bites will tide over everyone until dinner. At the buffet, set out some fun toothpicks to make for easy nibbling. —Anastasia Weiss, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania