These BBQ Little Smokies are the perfect party snack! Made with tasty little sausages swimming in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, they are always a hit!
Honestly, it’s hard to eat just one! I love to serve them with toothpicks for easy munching. Plus, making them in a crock pot means they’re ready to enjoy without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies Sausages: These small sausages are the star of the dish! You can find them in the refrigerated section. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages work well too. Vegetarian options are available too, but check for a similar texture.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand to give the dish a personal touch. If you want to experiment, homemade barbecue sauce can add a unique flavor. You could also try different flavors like hickory or spicy BBQ for a twist!
Grape Jelly: This is a classic addition to give a sweet glaze. If you don’t have grape jelly, you can use apple jelly or apricot preserves as alternatives. Chili sauce can also replace the jelly for a more savory flavor with a little kick.
How Do I Keep the Little Smokies from Sticking?
A common challenge is ensuring that the sausages stay coated without burning or sticking to the sides. Here are some tips to help:
- Always stir the Smokies gently after pouring the sauce to coat evenly—this helps keep them from sticking.
- Set your crock pot to low heat for longer cooking, which allows the smokies to warm gradually without sticking.
- Check and stir occasionally to prevent any from clumping or catching on the bottom.
- If you notice they are getting too thick, add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep things moist.
These tips and ingredient insights should help you make a delicious batch of BBQ Little Smokies that everyone will enjoy!
BBQ Little Smokies Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly or chili sauce (for added sweetness and glaze)
- Optional: toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 2 to 3 hours of cooking on low (or 1 hour on high) in the crock pot. So, you can set it up and enjoy some free time while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Start by opening the packages of Little Smokies. Carefully place all the sausages into the crock pot. It’s okay if they are stacked; they will heat up nicely!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, take your barbecue sauce and add the grape jelly or chili sauce. Stir it well until the mixture is smooth. This is where all the flavors come together!
3. Coat the Smokies:
Now, pour that delicious sauce mixture over the Little Smokies in the crock pot. Gently stir them to make sure all the sausages are coated evenly with the sauce.
4. Cook the Smokies:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 2 to 3 hours, or if you’re in a bit of a hurry, set it to high for about 1 hour. You want to ensure the Smokies are heated through and the sauce is nice and bubbly!
5. Stir Occasionally:
While they’re cooking, it’s a good idea to stir them every so often. This helps prevent them from sticking and ensures they are evenly cooked.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is up, carefully transfer the Smokies to a serving dish along with some of that tasty sauce. Don’t forget to add toothpicks for easy snacking. Enjoy these sweet and tangy BBQ Little Smokies at your next party or gathering!
Your guests will love these delicious bites!
Can I Use Frozen Little Smokies in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Little Smokies! Just place them directly in the crock pot and add extra cooking time. They may take an additional 30 minutes to an hour to heat through, depending on your crock pot settings.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce about 30 minutes before serving and let it cook on high until it thickens up.
Can I Make These BBQ Little Smokies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and combine it with the Smokies the night before. Just refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, pop them in the crock pot and cook them as directed.
What Should I Serve with BBQ Little Smokies?
These Smokies are great on their own, but they can also be served with sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or veggie platters for a balanced snack. They also pair well with sliders for a casual meal!
