Crock Pot Little Smokies are a fun and tasty snack! These tiny sausages are cooked in a flavorful sauce made of barbecue and grape jelly, creating a sweet and tangy taste.
They’re perfect for parties or game days. Just throw everything in the crock pot and let it do the work. Who knew something so simple could be so yummy? I can’t resist sneaking a few while they cook! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These are the star of the dish! If you can’t find them, you can use any mini or cocktail sausages instead. Turkey or chicken versions are great for a lighter option, but pork is traditional for flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce works best! I like to use a tangy sauce for balance. For a healthier option, low-sugar barbecue sauce or homemade versions can be used. You could also try different flavors, like honey mustard or chipotle.
Grape Jelly: This is the secret ingredient that makes the sauce sweet and delicious. If you’re not a fan, cranberry sauce works as a good alternative, adding a nice tartness. It’s a fun twist that still keeps it sweet!
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Crock Pot Little Smokies?
To make sure your Little Smokies are packed with flavor, focus on the sauce mixture! The right balance of barbecue sauce and grape jelly is key. Here’s how:
- Mix the barbecue sauce and grape jelly thoroughly before adding the sausages. This helps the flavors blend before they cook.
- Stir the sausage in the sauce well to ensure every piece is coated.
- Cooking them on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a few hours. If you’re short on time, the high setting works too!
Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even coating. These little tips can make a big difference in taste!
How to Make Crock Pot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup grape jelly
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a cooking time of 1 to 3 hours, depending on how you set your crock pot (high or low). All you need to do is mix the sauce and sausage, and the crock pot will handle the rest!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Little Smokies:
Start by opening the packages of Little Smokies. If there’s any excess liquid in the packages, drain it out. This keeps the dish from getting too watery.
2. Make the Sauce:
In your crock pot, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. Use a spoon or spatula to stir the mixture well until the jelly is mostly dissolved in the sauce. A nice, even mix will give your Little Smokies great flavor!
3. Add the Smokies:
Now it’s time to add the Little Smokies! Dump them into the sauce mixture and stir gently to ensure that all the sausages are coated with the sauce. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crock pot with its lid. You can cook the Little Smokies on low heat for 2 to 3 hours or on high heat for 1 to 1.5 hours. If you have the time, the low setting helps meld the flavors even better!
5. Stir Occasionally:
While cooking, make sure to stir the sausages occasionally. This helps them cook more evenly and ensures every piece stays coated in the delicious sauce.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
When the sausages are hot, and the sauce is bubbly, it’s time to serve! Transfer the Little Smokies to a serving bowl. Use toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy the sweet and tangy goodness!
This dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in. The slow cooking melds all the flavors together, making these bites a hit! Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Other Sauces Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
Absolutely! While barbecue sauce is classic, you can experiment with other sauces like honey mustard, teriyaki, or even a spicy chili sauce for a kick. Just keep the sweetness balance in mind!
Can I Prepare These Little Smokies in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything a day ahead and store the uncooked sausages in the sauce in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the crock pot and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce If It’s Too Runny?
If your sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes on high; this will help thicken it up.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or more sauce to maintain moisture.