Crock Pot Little Smokies are the ultimate party treat! These mini sausages cook slowly in a mix of sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, making them super tasty and fun to eat.
They disappear fast at gatherings—seriously, blink and they’re gone! I love tossing them in the slow cooker and letting them bubble away while I enjoy time with friends. Easy peasy! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the dish. If you can’t find them, try other small sausages like cocktail or pre-cooked sausage links. Turkey or chicken varieties are great for a lighter option.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with homemade BBQ sauce or switch it up with a smoky version for a different taste.
Grape Jelly: This is what gives the dish its signature sweetness! Replace with other jellies or jams, like apricot or raspberry, for varied flavors. You can even use honey for a healthier choice.
Dijon Mustard/Hot Sauce: These are optional, but they add a nice tanginess. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or use a splash of vinegar instead.
How Do You Ensure The Little Smokies Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking little smokies in the crock pot is super simple, but there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results:
- Layer the little smokies evenly in your crock pot to ensure they heat through quickly and evenly.
- Mix the barbecue sauce and grape jelly well before pouring it over the sausages. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! Let them simmer on low for 2-3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Giving them a stir once or twice helps with even cooking and prevents sticking.
Follow these tips, and your little smokies will be a hit at every gathering!
How to Make Crock Pot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) little smokies (mini smoked sausages)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or a few dashes of hot sauce for a tangy kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, and you’ll let the little smokies cook in the crock pot for 2 to 3 hours. It’s a simple, fuss-free way to whip up a delicious treat for your next party or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Little Smokies:
Start by placing both packages of little smokies into your crock pot. Spread them out evenly for the best cooking results.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Use a spoon or whisk to stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth. This sweet and tangy sauce is what makes these little smokies so delicious!
3. Combine Smokies and Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the little smokies in the crock pot. Gently stir to coat all of the sausages evenly with the sauce. You want each one to be covered!
4. Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crock pot with a lid and set it to cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally (once or twice) to help heat them through and get the sauce nicely mixed in as it cooks. You’ll know they’re done when they’re heated through and the sauce is bubbly and thickened.
5. Add Optional Flavor:
If you want to add a little extra zing, stir in Dijon mustard or a few dashes of hot sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give your smokies a delightful kick!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve the little smokies warm in a bowl with toothpicks for easy snacking. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or just as a tasty treat. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe creates juicy little smokies with a glossy, sweet-and-savory glaze that everyone will love!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! If you can’t find little smokies, you can use cocktail sausages or even cut-up pre-cooked sausage links. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—it might be a little shorter.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the little smokies and sauce the day before. Just combine everything in the crock pot and refrigerate overnight. Cook on low for 2-3 hours when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover little smokies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through!
Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can add cayenne pepper for heat, swap the grape jelly for another flavor, or even mix in some soy sauce for a savory twist!
