These BBQ Little Smokies are a fun and easy treat perfect for parties! Just toss some mini sausages in a slow cooker with tasty barbecue sauce, and let them warm up while you enjoy the time with friends.
Honestly, who can resist those little bites of joy? They vanish faster than I can say “more, please!” Pair them with toothpicks for a perfect appetizer. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the show. You can use beef, pork, or chicken varieties depending on your preference. For a healthier option, look for turkey or plant-based sausages.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own for more flavor control. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, opt for a low-sugar or homemade version. Sweet and tangy works best here!
Grape Jelly or Chili Sauce: Grape jelly adds sweetness, while chili sauce brings a spicy kick. You can swap grape jelly for apricot or peach preserves if preferred, or skip it altogether for a less sweet dish.
Worcestershire Sauce: This optional ingredient enhances the flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute, but use less to avoid making the dish too salty.
How Do I Cook the Perfect BBQ Little Smokies in a Crock Pot?
The key to making these BBQ Little Smokies is all about keeping the flavors balanced and letting them cook low and slow. Here are some tips for the best results:
- Drain the Little Smokies well to avoid excess liquid making the sauce too runny.
- Mix the ingredients well before adding the sausages to ensure an even coating of flavor.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent them from sticking together and to enhance the sauce’s distribution.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours for perfectly heated and flavorful sausages, but if you’re in a rush, cooking on high for 1 hour works too!
These simple tips will ensure your BBQ Little Smokies turn out delicious every time!
BBQ Little Smokies in the Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly or chili sauce (optional, for added sweetness and tang)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the Crock Pot for 2 to 3 hours on low. Perfect for setting it and forgetting it while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Start by opening the packages of Little Smokies. Make sure to drain any extra liquid from the sausages to prevent your sauce from becoming too watery.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In your Crock Pot, combine the barbecue sauce with the grape jelly or chili sauce (if you’re using them) and the Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
3. Add the Little Smokies:
Next, add the drained Little Smokies to the sauce mixture. Gently stir them around to make sure each sausage is coated with that delicious sauce.
4. Cook Them Up:
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally, so the Little Smokies heat evenly and soak up all the flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When they’re heated through and the sauce has thickened a bit, you’re ready to serve! Scoop the BBQ Little Smokies out of the Crock Pot into a serving dish, and present them with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Enjoy these sweet and tangy BBQ Little Smokies that are a sure hit at any gathering! They are simple to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Can I Use Different Sauces for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While barbecue sauce is traditional, you can experiment with other sauces like teriyaki, spicy mustard, or even a sweet sesame sauce for a unique twist. Just adjust the sweetness level according to your taste!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to add some heat, include a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Little Smokies and sauce mixture a day in advance. Just keep them in the fridge and then cook them in the Crock Pot when you’re ready to serve. This can also help the flavors meld together nicely!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You might want to add a splash of barbecue sauce to keep them moist!