These tasty little smokies are a hit at parties! Cooking them in a crockpot makes them super easy and fun. Just toss them in with some barbecue sauce and let the magic happen.
Honestly, I could snack on these all day. They’re perfect for game nights or family gatherings—and who doesn’t love finger foods that are a breeze to make? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These tiny sausages are the star of the show! You can find beef, pork, or turkey varieties. If you’d like a healthier option, go for turkey smokies, which are lower in fat while still tasty.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make homemade BBQ sauce for a personal touch. If you’re out, ketchup can work in a pinch! For a spice kick, consider adding hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Chili Sauce/Ketchup: This adds a sweet and tangy note. If you prefer something different, try using a spicy salsa or even a homemade tomato sauce. However, you may need to adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. If you don’t have any, white sugar or maple syrup can be alternatives, though that will change the flavor slightly.
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds depth. If you don’t have it on hand, soy sauce could work as a substitute. It will tweak the flavor but can still be delicious!
How Can You Ensure the Best Flavor and Texture with Your Smokies?
To achieve the best flavor and texture, be mindful of cooking times and mixing. Here’s how to make these little smokies shine:
- Start by placing the smokies in a single layer for even heat distribution.
- Mix your sauces thoroughly before pouring over the sausages, ensuring every piece gets coated.
- Cook on low heat! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without drying out the sausages.
- Stir gently every hour, so that the sauce continues to cover the smokies as they cook.
This slow cooking process makes for tender little smokies packed with flavor, and it’s nearly foolproof!
How to Make Crockpot Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds little smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- ½ cup chili sauce or ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 2 to 3 hours to cook on low in the crockpot. It’s an easy dish that will be ready for your guests without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Start by placing the little smokies in the bottom of your crockpot. They will be the base of this delicious dish!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chili sauce (or ketchup), brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed.
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the little smokies in the crockpot. Using a spoon or spatula, stir gently to make sure every sausage is coated with that tasty sauce.
4. Cook it Low and Slow:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. Every hour, give it a gentle stir to keep the flavors even and delicious.
5. Serve and Garnish:
When the little smokies are hot and ready, transfer them to a serving bowl. Add fresh thyme sprigs on top if you want to make it look extra special. They add a lovely touch!
6. Snack Time!
Serve these warm, and don’t forget to have toothpicks handy for easy snacking. Your guests will love them (and you might want to make a double batch—they disappear fast)!
Enjoy these tender, flavorful little smokies with their sweet and tangy glaze that’s perfect for any gathering!
Can I Use Turkey Little Smokies Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey little smokies are a great lower-fat alternative and will still absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce. Just cook them as the recipe directs!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the little smokies and sauce mixture the day before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer them to the crockpot and set it to low. They might need an extra 30 minutes to heat through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or back in the crockpot on low until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Little Smokies?
These little smokies make a fantastic appetizer on their own, but you can also serve them with sides like potato skins or veggie platters. They pair well with chips and dip, too!
