These Crockpot Little Smokies are a fun and easy snack that everyone loves! Just pop those tasty sausages in the slow cooker with some tangy sauce and let them simmer until perfect.
They’re so simple to make, and I like to serve them with toothpicks for easy eating. Trust me, you’ll find yourself coming back for “just one more!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the dish. You can find them in most grocery stores. If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausages. They’ll work great too!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce for this recipe. Sweet, tangy, or smoky—it’s all up to you! If you want to avoid sugar, look for sugar-free or homemade barbecue sauces.
Grape Jelly: This classic pairing adds a unique sweetness to the dish. You can substitute it with cranberry sauce or apricot jam if you want to mix things up a bit.
Worcestershire Sauce: This is optional, but if you have it on hand, it can add depth. You can skip it or try soy sauce or even a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Little Smokies?
To make sure your Little Smokies are packed with flavor, it’s all about the sauce! Mixing the barbecue sauce with grape jelly creates a sweet and tangy glaze. Here are some tips for great results:
- Mix thoroughly for an even coating on the sausages.
- Cook on low heat—this lets the flavors meld beautifully and keeps the sausages tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure every sausage gets that delicious glaze.
- For a fancier touch, add cooked chopped onions or a dash of chili powder to the sauce.
You’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands in no time!
Crockpot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for a little extra kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 2 to 3 hours to cook in the crockpot. So, total time is roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes if you are serving them right away. Perfect for parties or game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Little Smokies:
Start by opening the packages of Little Smokies. Toss them into the crockpot, making sure they’re evenly spread out for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, pour in the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Stir these two together until they are well-blended. The sauce will get a lovely sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokies!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, pour the sauce mixture over the Little Smokies in the crockpot. Make sure every sausage is coated with that yummy sauce!
4. Cook Them Up:
Put the lid on the crockpot and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to help the flavors meld and ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
Once the sausages are heated through and the sauce is bubbly, it’s time to dig in! Turn off the crockpot and serve them warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
These Crockpot Little Smokies are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Little Smokies Instead?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken variations will work just as well as traditional pork Little Smokies. They may be a bit leaner, so keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can heat through faster.
Can I Substitute the Grape Jelly?
Yes, if you don’t have grape jelly, you can use other sweet spreads like apricot jam, raspberry jelly, or even cranberry sauce for a different flavor profile!
How Long Can I Keep Leftovers?
Leftover Little Smokies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through before serving again.
Can I Make These Spicy?
Yes! To add a kick to your Little Smokies, simply include a tablespoon of hot sauce into the sauce mixture or serve with hot sauce on the side for dipping. You can also try adding some diced jalapeños!
