Smoked Appetizers & Party Foods
Easy smoked appetizers for game day, tailgates, and backyard BBQs. Includes smoked cream cheese, pig shots, queso, jalapeños, and party planning tips.
Appetizers & Sides
Every great backyard feast starts with the right sidekicks! Whether you’re craving savory appetizers, creamy dips, or hearty side dishes, you’ll find plenty of Texas-inspired favorites right here. From crowd-pleasing party snacks to skillet potatoes and smoky beans, these recipes are the perfect partners for your main course — or a reason to gather all on their own.
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeños (with Sausage & Cream Cheese)
These bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños are filled with sausage and cream cheese, glazed with honey butter, and grilled low and slow for the perfect blend of sweet heat and smoky flavor.
Traditional Green Bean Casserole (On the Smoker)
This Traditional Green Bean Casserole is cooked on the smoker for an extra layer of rich, savory flavor. Tender French-style green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions come together in this timeless holiday side dish.
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots (Smoker or Oven!)
These Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots are tender, buttery, and perfectly sweet—an easy side dish made right on the smoker or in the oven. Ideal for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you’re firing up the grill!
Quick & Easy Cranberry Mandarin Orange Salad (Perfect for Thanksgiving!)
This quick and easy cranberry mandarin salad comes together in minutes using fresh cranberries, mandarin oranges, pecans, and marshmallows. A bright, refreshing side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday feast — made right on the stovetop.
Cajun Red Beans & Rice (Instant Pot Method)
Make this cozy Cajun Red Beans & Rice in the Instant Pot with sausage in your Instant Pot! A delicious Southern classic with homemade Cajun seasoning and big flavor.
Slow Cooker Honey Cream Corn
Slow Cooker Honey Cream Corn is the perfect sweet and creamy side dish for BBQs, holidays, or weeknight dinners. Easy dump-and-go recipe everyone will love!
Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Sausage
Whip up these hearty Instant Pot Pinto Beans with sausage in a fraction of the time! This Southern-style recipe packs bold flavor, smoky depth, and just a touch of heat—perfect for serving with cornbread or rice after a long day on the grill.
Smoked Cream Cheese with Bacon and Hot Pepper Cranberry Jelly
This smoked cream cheese with bacon and hot pepper cranberry jelly is the ultimate sweet, salty, and smoky appetizer. Perfect for the holidays or your next backyard cookout! Smokey Meets Sweet with a Hint of Heat! There’s nothing quite like the magic that happens when smoky, salty, and sweet flavors collide — and this appetizer …
Jalapeño Cheddar Skillet Cornbread
Sweet, savory, and just a little spicy! This Jalapeño Cheddar Skillet Cornbread is baked in cast iron for a crispy crust and tender crumb. Perfect side for BBQ or chili nights.