These BBQ Little Smokies are a fun and yummy snack perfect for any gathering! Just toss those little sausages in a crock pot with some zesty BBQ sauce, and let the magic happen!
They cook low and slow, making them super tender and full of flavor. I love serving them with toothpicks—everyone can grab their favorite bite easily. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a good BBQ treat? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies sausages: These cocktail sausages are the star of the dish! If you prefer a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages work well too.
BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor! I like a sweet and tangy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, sugar-free BBQ sauce is a great alternative.
Grape jelly: This adds sweetness and helps balance the sauce’s tanginess. You could swap it with apricot jelly or apple jelly if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Toothpicks: While optional, they make serving and eating much easier! Plus, they look fun on your serving table. You can even find festive ones for holidays or themed parties!
How Do I Make Sure My Little Smokies Stay Juicy?
Keeping your Little Smokies juicy is simple if you follow a few steps! First, don’t overcook them. The crock pot does most of the work!
- Stick to the low setting for 3 to 4 hours; this gently heats them without drying them out.
- Stir a couple of times to coat the sausages evenly in sauce, which keeps them moist.
- Serve them warm right when they’re done cooking for the best texture.
BBQ Little Smokies in the Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs Little Smokies sausages
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- Optional: toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll then cook them in the crock pot for 3 to 4 hours on low. So, in total, you’ll need about 3 hours and 10 minutes to enjoy these tasty BBQ Little Smokies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausages:
Start by placing the Little Smokies sausages into your crock pot. They should cover the bottom in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and grape jelly. Stir well until the two ingredients are fully blended. This sweet and tangy sauce is what gives the Little Smokies their amazing flavor!
3. Combine:
Pour the BBQ sauce and grape jelly mixture over the Little Smokies in the crock pot. Make sure all the sausages are coated well so that every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 3 to 4 hours. Stir the sausages a couple of times during cooking to keep them from sticking and ensure they cook evenly.
5. Serve Up:
Once the cooking time is up, give the Little Smokies a good stir. Transfer them to a serving bowl and set out some toothpicks for easy snacking. Your guests will love grabbing these bite-sized treats!
6. Enjoy:
These sweet and tangy BBQ Little Smokies are perfect for parties, game day, or any gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While Little Smokies are traditional, you can use turkey or chicken sausages for a leaner option, or even beef sausages if you prefer a bolder flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Grape Jelly?
No problem! You can substitute grape jelly with apricot or raspberry jelly, or even use cranberry sauce for a different twist. Just make sure it’s a sweet option to balance the BBQ sauce!
Can I Cook These on High Instead of Low?
You can, but it’s best to cook them on low for optimal tenderness. If you’re short on time, set the crock pot to high for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of BBQ sauce if they seem dry.
