Crock Pot Little Smokies are the perfect party snack! These tasty little sausages are cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes them super delicious. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and forget about it!
Whenever I make these, they disappear faster than I can say “little smokies!” They’re great for game day or any gathering. Plus, they’re so easy—just set it and enjoy the fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies Sausages: These are the stars of the dish! You can use any cocktail sausages, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages work great too.
Barbecue Sauce: A classic choice! If you love a kick, try using spicy barbecue sauce, or make your own. For a tangy twist, use a mustard-based sauce instead.
Grape Jelly: This is what adds sweetness to the dish. If you don’t have grape jelly on hand, you can substitute it with apple jelly or even cranberry sauce for a fun flavor change.
Yellow Mustard: Adding this is optional, but it does give a nice tang. If you prefer a different flavor, try Dijon mustard or omit it altogether if you’re not a mustard fan.
How Do I Keep the Smokies Deliciously Coated in Sauce?
It’s all about mixing the sauce right and cooking it properly. Here’s how to ensure your little smokies are perfectly coated:
- Start by mixing the barbecue sauce and grape jelly in a bowl until smooth. This ensures even distribution.
- Once you pour it over the sausages, gently stir to coat them well. Be careful not to break them!
- Stir occasionally during cooking. This helps keep them coated and prevents any from sticking at the bottom.
By following these tips, you’ll get tasty little smokies that everyone will love! Enjoy making them for your next gathering!
Crock Pot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds little smokies sausages (cocktail sausages)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks for 2-3 hours on low (or 1-2 hours on high) in your crock pot. Perfect for when you have a busy day ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Little Smokies:
Start by placing the little smokies sausages directly into your crock pot. There’s no need to brown them first; they’ll get flavorful as they cook.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, and optional mustard. Stir them together well until the grape jelly is mostly melted and everything is mixed into a smooth sauce.
3. Combine Them:
Pour the sauce mixture over the little smokies in the crock pot. Gently stir to make sure all the sausages are coated with the tasty sauce.
4. Cook Them Up:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. They’re ready when they’re heated through and the sauce is bubbly!
5. Stir Occasionally:
If you can, stir the little smokies every now and then while they cook. This helps them stay well coated in that delicious sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re cooked, transfer the little smokies to a serving bowl. If you’d like, you can garnish them with fresh parsley or thyme for a little extra flair. Serve warm with toothpicks as an easy, fun appetizer!
Enjoy your easy and delicious Crock Pot Little Smokies!
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen little smokies! Just add them directly to the crock pot without thawing. They may take a little longer to heat through, so expect to cook them for an extra half hour on both low and high settings.
What Can I Substitute for Grape Jelly?
If you don’t have grape jelly, you can easily substitute it with apple jelly or even cranberry sauce for a unique flavor twist. Both alternatives work well to keep that sweet and tangy profile!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and coat the sausages ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. Just pop everything in the crock pot when you’re ready to cook, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover little smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of barbecue sauce for extra moisture if needed!