Alright, so I picked up the Permatex High-Temp Thread Sealer #59214 in the US, #59206 in CA, product info here => Permatex Product Page

I cleaned the plugs and the engine block threads with brake cleaner...dried and applied the locker paste to all but the 1st thread on the plug, tightened tool tight...although the geek in me said: why isn't there a torque value anywhere???

For what it's worth, while researching this question I learned that the plugs or threaded connections in general apparently do not have torque readings and instead a Turn Past Hand/Finger Tight is the measure.

Thanks everone for the input and suggestions!