Crock Pot Little Smokies are tiny sausages cooked in a tasty sauce, making them the perfect snack or party treat. They’re sweet, smoky, and super easy to prepare!
Honestly, these little bites disappear fast. I set them out at gatherings, and people can’t resist coming back for more. Just trust me; they’re a hit every time! 😄
I love how simple they are to make—just toss everything in the Crock Pot and let it do the work. Perfect for busy days or fun nights with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cocktail Smokies: The star of this dish! You can find them in most grocery stores. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausages instead. They work well but will offer a slightly different taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe! Feel free to experiment with different flavors like smoky or spicy. If you want a lighter version, you can use a low-sugar barbecue sauce too.
Grape Jelly: This ingredient adds sweetness and helps create a rich sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute it with other fruit jellies, like apple or raspberry, which can give a unique twist to the flavor.
Chili Sauce or Hot Sauce: This is optional but can add a nice kick! If you don’t have these, you can use a pinch of red pepper flakes or even some mustard for a different type of heat.
How Do I Ensure My Little Smokies Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked little smokies is low and slow! Using a Crock Pot means you can set it and forget it, but here are some tips:
- Layer the smokies evenly in the Crock Pot. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Mix your sauce well before pouring it over the sausages. This ensures every little smokie gets a good coating of flavor.
- Try to resist lifting the lid while they cook, as it lets heat escape. Trust that they’ll cook perfectly!
- Remember, cooking on low will give you tender sausages with a flavorful sauce. If you’re short on time, high heat works; just keep an eye on them!
Crock Pot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) cocktail smokies (little smokie sausages)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup grape jelly (or other fruit jelly/jam)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chili sauce or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and can cook in the Crock Pot for 2 to 3 hours on low or 1 to 1.5 hours on high. Perfect for throwing together in the morning and coming home to a tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Start by placing the cocktail smokies into your Crock Pot slow cooker. They’ll be the main star of your dish! Make sure they’re spread out evenly for the best cooking results.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Stir well until everything is blended nicely. This mixture adds a sweet and savory flavor that makes the smokies delicious! If you’re feeling adventurous, add in the chili sauce or hot sauce for some extra heat.
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the smokies in the Crock Pot. Using a spoon or spatula, gently stir the smokies to make sure they’re coated in the sauce. This ensures everyone gets a taste of that yummy flavor!
4. Cook:
Cover your Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours or on high for 1 to 1.5 hours. The smokies should be heated through, and the sauce will thicken up nicely. If you can, stir them occasionally to help the flavors mix well!
5. Ready to Serve:
Once cooked, give the smokies a final stir before serving. Serve them warm in a bowl or on a platter with toothpicks, making them easy for everyone to grab. They are perfect as a snack during movie nights, parties, or even game days!
Enjoy these sweet and smoky little bites—they’ll be gone in no time!
Can I Use Different Sauces for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While barbecue sauce and grape jelly are traditional, you can experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce. Just keep in mind that the flavors will change, so choose sauces you enjoy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the smokies and sauce mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just throw them in the Crock Pot when you’re ready to cook!
How Do I Store Leftover Little Smokies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Just add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much!
Can I Use Frozen Smokies?
Yes, you can use frozen smokies! Just add an additional 30 minutes to your cooking time on low, and make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. They will cook through just fine!
