Crockpot Little Smokies are tiny sausages that become super tasty when cooked slowly in a flavorful sauce. They’re perfect for parties or just a fun snack!
Honestly, these little bites of joy always disappear first at gatherings. I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy munching—no mess, all fun! 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These are the star of the dish! Any brand works, but turkey versions can be a healthier swap if you’re looking for something lighter.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite BBQ sauce. I enjoy a smoky flavor, but a sweet or spicy sauce works well too. If you’re out of BBQ sauce, try using ketchup mixed with hot sauce for a quick substitute!
Grape Jelly: This gives a great sweetness to balance the sauce. If you want a different flavor, apricot or raspberry preserves work wonderfully too. Just remember, the sweetness is key!
How Can I Make Sure My Little Smokies Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking Little Smokies in a crockpot is simple, but there are a few tips for great results. First, layer them evenly in the pot to allow even heat distribution.
- Mix the sauce ingredients well before pouring over the sausages to ensure every bite has flavor.
- Set your crockpot to low and give it enough time—2 to 3 hours is ideal. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Keep them warm until serving, as they can dry out if left too long on high heat!
These tips will help you serve perfect Little Smokies that everyone will love!
Crockpot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your preferred brand)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 2 to 3 hours to cook in the crockpot on low heat. Just mix, set your crockpot, and you’re good to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Open both packages of Little Smokies and place them neatly into the crockpot. Make sure they are spread out so they can cook evenly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. This will create a sweet, tangy sauce that enhances the flavor of the sausages!
3. Coat the Smokies:
Pour the delicious sauce mixture evenly over the Little Smokies. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir and coat the sausages, ensuring each one is well-covered in that yummy sauce.
4. Cook Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep the sausages coated in sauce, and ensure they cook evenly all the way through.
5. Finish & Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, check that the sauce has thickened and the Little Smokies are heated through. Switch the crockpot to the warm setting until you’re ready to serve. If you want to add a touch of freshness, garnish with thyme sprigs or parsley.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the Little Smokies warm with toothpicks on the side for easy snacking. They make a fantastic appetizer or party treat that everyone will love!
Enjoy these sweet and tangy Crockpot Little Smokies as a perfect addition to any gathering or as a fun snack!
Can I Use Different Sauces?
Absolutely! While barbecue sauce and grape jelly create a classic flavor profile, feel free to experiment with other sauces. A sweet and spicy chili sauce or teriyaki sauce can give a delicious twist!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Little Smokies and the sauce the day before. Assemble everything in the crockpot, cover it, and refrigerate. Just cook it on the day of your gathering, allowing extra cooking time if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Smokies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat wonderfully in the microwave or on the stovetop—just add a splash of water to keep them moist as they warm up!
Can I Cook These on High Heat?
Yes, you can cook the Little Smokies on high for about 1 to 1.5 hours. However, the sauce may not thicken as much, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out. Stir occasionally for even cooking!