Crockpot Little Smokies are the perfect party treat! These tasty little sausages get super tender and flavorful as they simmer in your favorite sauce.
Honestly, I could snack on these all day! They’re so fun to pop open in a bun or just enjoy straight from the pot. So easy and sooo delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These mini sausages are the star of the dish. If you can’t find them, cocktail sausages or turkey sausages work nicely as alternatives. Just remember, they might vary in flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a sweet barbecue sauce for a nice balance with the grape jelly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, a low-sugar or homemade version can also work well. I love a smoky flavor, so I recommend a sauce with a bit of spiciness!
Grape Jelly: The sweet grape jelly adds a unique twist. If you prefer, you can swap it for another fruit jelly like raspberry or apricot for a different flavor profile. I think the grape really pairs well with barbecue sauce, though!
Brown Sugar: This is optional, but if you love extra sweetness, add it! You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth and umami. Feel free to skip it if you don’t have any on hand, or use soy sauce as a substitute for a similar flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Little Smokies Are Perfectly Coated In Sauce?
Getting your Little Smokies evenly coated in sauce is essential for great flavor. Here are some tips:
- Mix the sauce ingredients until silky smooth before adding to the sausages. This helps everything blend without lumps.
- When you pour the sauce over the Little Smokies, gently stir to coat each sausage. Be careful not to break them!
- Stir occasionally while cooking. This helps all the sausages get a nice glaze from the sauce.
Following these steps will ensure every bite is delicious and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking and the scrumptious end result!
Crockpot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and cooks in the crockpot for 2 to 3 hours on low. So overall, you’ll need around 2.5 to 3 hours to have these delicious Little Smokies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Little Smokies:
If you like, start by draining and rinsing the Little Smokies. This step is optional but can help if you want to reduce some of the extra sodium.
2. Mix The Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine your barbecue sauce and grape jelly. If you decide to use brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce, add those as well. Stir everything together until smooth. This mixture will give your sausages that sweet and tangy flavor.
3. Add Smokies To The Crockpot:
Now, place your drained Little Smokies in the crockpot. They should be evenly spread across the bottom.
4. Coat The Sausages:
Pour the sauce mixture over the Little Smokies. Use a spoon to gently stir them, making sure each sausage is coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Cook Until Ready:
Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let the sausages cook for about 2 to 3 hours or until they are nice and heated through. You’ll know they are ready when the sauce is bubbly!
6. Stir Occasionally:
Every now and then, take a moment to stir the sausages gently. This will help ensure they all get that wonderful sauce coating.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can either use a slotted spoon to dish out the Little Smokies in a bowl or serve them on small buns for an easy appetizer. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering!
Enjoy these sweet and tangy Crockpot Little Smokies that will surely be a hit at your next event!
Can I Use Other Sauces with Little Smokies?
Absolutely! While barbecue sauce and grape jelly make a classic combination, you can experiment with different sauces. Try using honey mustard, teriyaki sauce, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for a different flavor profile!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and add the Little Smokies in advance. Just cover and refrigerate everything until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the crockpot and cook as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or back in the crockpot on low until warmed through.
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies?
Yes, you can! Just place the frozen Little Smokies directly into the crockpot and adjust the cooking time to about 3 to 4 hours on low. There’s no need to thaw them first.