Roscoe's Recipes

Southern Recipes and Soul Food

Category: Beef

  • Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies (Easy Southern Appetizer)

    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies (Easy Southern Appetizer)

    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies

    These Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies are one of those easy, dependable recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

    They’re bold, savory, and perfect when you need a low-carb appetizer that doesn’t require much effort or prep time.

    Whether you’re planning game day food, a family gathering, or just want something quick to keep in the fridge for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes.

    It’s simple, filling, and fits right into a keto or low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

    You may also like:

    Instant Pot Keto Beer Brats

    Why This Recipe Works So Well

    Little smokies are already packed with flavor, and cooking them in the Instant Pot helps them soak up every bit of that tangy barbecue sauce.

    The result is a tender, saucy bite that tastes like it simmered for hours—even though it didn’t.

    This recipe is especially popular because:

    • It’s keto-friendly and low carb
    • Uses the Instant Pot for fast, hands-off cooking
    • Requires minimal ingredients
    • Works for parties, holidays, and meal prep

    If you love southern-style appetizers but want something lighter on carbs, this is an easy win.

    Great for Parties, Potlucks, and Game Day

    These keto BBQ little smokies are a crowd favorite and easy to scale up when you’re feeding a group.

    Serve them straight from the Instant Pot or keep them warm for guests to grab throughout the day.

    They’re also a smart option for potlucks since they travel well and don’t need a lot of fuss once they’re cooked.

    Easy Meal Prep Option

    One of the best things about this recipe is how well it works for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them as:

    • A quick snack
    • A protein-packed lunch
    • A simple dinner paired with low-carb sides

    They taste just as good reheated and even work cold if you’re short on time.

    What to Serve with Keto BBQ Little Smokies

    If you want to turn this into a complete meal, pair them with classic low-carb sides like:

    These pairings keep the meal satisfying while staying within keto guidelines.

    A Go-To Instant Pot Keto Recipe

    When you need something fast, flavorful, and reliable, Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies are always a good choice.

    They fit right into a southern-style menu and are easy enough for busy weeknights while still being party-worthy.

    This is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can still deliver big flavor.

    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies

    Ingredients:

    • 2 packages Little Smokies
    • 1 ½ cups G. Hughes Sugar Free BBQ Sauce

    Directions:

    Pour smokies into the Instant Pot liner and top with the BBQ sauce.

    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies

    Lock the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to sealing.

    Select Manual and set time to 15 minutes.

    When the Instant Pot beeps, release the pressure valve and remove the lid.

    Stir and serve.

    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies
    Instant Pot Keto BBQ Little Smokies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I Use a Different Brand of BBQ Sauce?

    You can use any brand of sugar-free BBQ sauce that fits your dietary preferences. Keep in mind that different brands may vary in sweetness and flavor, so you may want to adjust the quantity to taste.

    Are Little Smokies Keto-Friendly?

    Little Smokies are generally keto-friendly as they are low in carbs. However, it’s important to check the label for added sugars or fillers that could increase carb content.

    How Long Does it Take to Prepare and Cook This Recipe?

    The preparation time is minimal, requiring just a couple of minutes to place the ingredients into the Instant Pot. Cooking time is 15 minutes, plus additional time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and release pressure, which can take about 10-15 minutes.

    Can I Double the Recipe?

    You can double the recipe in a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot. Ensure that the ingredients do not exceed the maximum fill line. The cooking time remains the same.

    Is It Necessary to Stir the Smokies and BBQ Sauce Before Cooking?

    It’s not necessary but recommended. Stirring helps to evenly coat the smokies in sauce, which enhances the flavor.

    Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?

    This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.

    How Should I Store Leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

    Are There Any Good Side Dishes to Serve with This?

    Keto-friendly side dishes like cauliflower mash, green beans, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

    Can I Use Regular BBQ Sauce Instead of Sugar-Free?

    Yes, but it will increase the carbohydrate content, making it less suitable for a keto diet.

    What Should I Do If the Sauce Is Too Thick or Thin?

    If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or broth. If it’s too thin, use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to reduce and thicken the sauce.

    Instant Pot BBQ Little Smokies

    Instant Pot BBQ Little Smokies

    Ingredients

    • 2 packages Little Smokies
    • 1 ½ cups G. Hughes Sugar Free BBQ Sauce

    Instructions

    Pour smokies into the Instant Pot liner and top with the BBQ sauce.

    Lock the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to sealing.

    Select Manual and set time to 15 minutes.

    When the Instant Pot beeps, release the pressure valve and remove the lid.

    Stir and serve.

    © Roscoe
  • Mongolian Beef

    Mongolian Beef

    Mongolian Beef

    Mongolian Beef

    Equipment

    • Frying Pan
    • Measuring spoons

    Prep: 7-10 mins

    Cook time: 10 mins

    Total: 20 mins

    Yield: 3-4 servings

    Ingredients:

    • 2 New York Strip Steaks, sliced, thin
    • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
    • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
    • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
    • 1 tsp white pepper
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • Green onion to garnish

    Instructions:

    Slice the steak into strips.

    Season meat with salt and pepper.

    Add in the cornstarch and toss meat to fully coat.

    Place 2 tsp of oil in a pan over medium high heat.

    Once heated, add in garlic and minced ginger, sauté to toast for 1 min.

    Add in soy sauce, water and brown sugar.

    Bring to a boil then remove from heat, pour into a glass measuring cup.

    Add another 2 tbsp oil to the pan.

    Toss in the coated meat and sear on all side (about 5 mins total).

    Once browned, add the sauce back in.

    Once it comes to a boil, it will begin to thicken.

    Cook for 2-3 mins until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

    Serve over steamed rice.

    Mongolian Beef
  • Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

    Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

    Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

    Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

    Equipment

    • Frying Pan
    • Medium Sized Bowl
    • Spoon
    • Measuring Spoons

    Prep: 10-15 mins

    Cook: 20 mins

    Total: 35-40 min

    Yield: 12 egg rolls

    Ingredients:

    • 1.5 pounds ground meat (beef, turkey or chicken)
    • 3-4 slices of bacon
    • ½ sweet onion, diced
    • 1 cup cheese
    • 1-2 garlic coves, minced
    • 1 tsp all purpose seasoning
    • ½ tsp chili powder
    • ½ tsp garlic power
    • ½ tsp paprika
    • ¼ tsp onion powder
    • ¼ tsp kosher salt
    • ¼ tsp white pepper
    • 3 tbsp ketchup, optional
    • 3 tbsp BBQ sauce, optional

    Instructions:

    Heat your skillet over medium high, once hot, add the bacon.

    Cook bacon on both sides for about 3 mins (or until desired crispiness).

    Remove bacon and let drain on paper towel.

    Add diced onion and garlic to the bacon grease.

    Sautee until onions are translucent (about 3-4 mins), constantly stirring so the garlic doesn’t burn.

    Remove from pan and set to the side.

    Add in the ground meat and cook until browned.

    Drain meat if you need too and return to the skillet.

    Add in the onions and garlic, plus all of the dry seasonings.

    Stir to incorporate.

    Remove from heat and add in ketchup and BBQ sauce if you’d like at this point.

    Chop up the bacon and shred the cheese.

    Transfer meat mixture to a bowl, clean the frying pan, fill half way with vegetable oil and begin to preheat it on medium.

    Prepare area for rolling the egg rolls.

    To make the eggrolls:

    Place meat filling diagonally on wrap. Add cheese and bacon crumbles.

    Then fold the bottom corner over the filling.

    Roll snuggly halfway to cover filling and fold in both sides snuggly against filling.

    Use water to moisten the edges of the flap.

    Roll wrapper up and seal top corner and lay flat side down until ready to cook. 

    Once the eggrolls are all rolled, the oil should be hot enough.  Fry on each side for 2-3 mins.  As soon as the edges are golden, flip them over.  Drain on paper towels

    Serve with dipping sauces and enjoy!

    Notes:

    Optional add-ins: dry ground mustard, dry mango seasoning, adobo, cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.  The ketchup and BBQ sauce are optional but it does help make the meat mixture a little saucy.

    For parties or appetizers, I would do thinner eggrolls using only one egg roll wrapper.  For dinner or a meal, I would make them a little thicker and wrap them in two wrappers.

    Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls
  • Baked Swedish Meatballs

    Baked Swedish Meatballs

    Ingredients:

    Meatballs:

    • ½ lb ground beef
    • ½ lb ground pork
    • 1 tablespoon dry onion, minced
    • 1 egg
    • Salt & pepper to taste
    • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
    • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
    • ¼ teaspoon allspice
    • 2 tablespoons parsley

    Sauce:

    • 3 tablespoons butter
    • ¼ cup flour
    • 3 cups beef broth
    • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
    • ¼ cup heavy cream

    Directions:

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil.

    Mix all meatball ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.

    Roll mixture into balls and place on baking sheet.

    Bake 30-40 minutes until cooked through.

    Prepare the sauce by melting butter in a skillet over medium high heat.

    Whisk in flour and allow to brown.

    Add in broth and Worcestershire sauce then cream.

    Reduce heat slightly and allow sauce to thicken.

    Season to taste. 

    Add meatballs to skillet and coat with sauce.

    Garnish with parsley, serve, and enjoy!

  • Dutch Oven Beef Tips

    Dutch Oven Beef Tips

    Dutch Oven Beef Tips

    Dutch Oven Beef Tips

    Ingredients:

    • 2-3 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
    • 1 pound beef stew meat
    • 1 tsp season salt
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • 1/2 tsp white pepper
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/4 tsp onion powder
    • 1/2 cup ap flour
    • 1/2 cup onion diced
    • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1.5 cups beef broth
    • 1 cup water + 1 tbsp corn starch

    Instructions:

    Add the stew meat to a bowl.

    Add salt, pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and season salt.

    Mix well until meat is fully coated.

    Add in ½ cup all purpose flour and toss to coat.

    Heat 2-3 tbsp of oil in a pan over High heat.

    Once hot, add in beef.

    Reduce the heat to medium and sear on all sides.

    Remove the meat from the pan.

    Add in diced onions and use a wooden spoon to scrape off the brown bits at the bottom of the pot.

    Once all is scraped and onions have sauteed, add in Worcestershire sauce and mix.

    Next add in beef broth and the water/corn starch mixture.

    Bring to a boil, stirring frequently.

    Once boiling reduce to a simmer, cover and let cook for one hour.

    Stir every 8-10 mins.

    Notes:

    If you can not stay in the kitchen to stir every 8-10 mins omit the cornstarch and only add the water.

    In the last 10 mins bring to a boil and add a slurry (1/3 cup water +1 tbsp corn starch) to thicken up the gravy. Stir frequently so it doesn’t stick.

    dutch oven beef tips