These BBQ Little Smokies are the perfect party treat! Cooked slowly in tangy barbecue sauce, they’re sweet, savory, and oh-so-easy to devour!
Who can resist these tasty little bites? They’re simple to make: just toss them in the crock pot and let them bubble away. Perfect for game day or any get-together! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These bite-sized sausages are the star of the dish! You can find beef, pork, or turkey versions. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey Little Smokies work well.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade sauce for a personal touch. If you’re out, you can make a quick substitute with ketchup mixed with a bit of vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.
Grape Jelly or Apricot Preserves: Grape jelly is traditional for that sweet twist. If you don’t have it, apricot preserves or even peach jam gives great results.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the sauce but is not essential. You can skip it if you want a simpler flavor profile.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add extra flavor complexity. If fresh garlic or onion is on hand, feel free to substitute those! Just remember to adjust the quantities since fresh is more potent.
How Do I Ensure the Perfectly Coated Smokies?
Getting the Little Smokies well-coated in sauce is crucial for flavor. Here are some tips:
- Stir Gently: Use a rubber spatula to gently mix them in the sauce to avoid breaking them.
- Even Distribution: Make sure every sausage is coated. Stir occasionally during cooking to help with this.
- Cooking Time: Cook them on low for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. If you cook on high, watch closely to prevent burning.
Remember, serving them warm helps the sauce stick better and makes them all the more delightful for your guests!
BBQ Little Smokies in the Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly or apricot preserves
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 3 to 4 hours of cooking time on low in the crock pot. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready for snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Sauce Ready:
Start by pouring the barbecue sauce and grape jelly into your slow cooker. It’s like a sweet and tangy magic potion! If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, or onion powder, add those in too. Stir everything together really well until it’s mixed and smooth.
2. Add the Little Smokies:
Now it’s time to add those Little Smokies! Toss them into the sauce and gently stir them around to ensure they are nicely coated with your sweet sauce mixture. Be careful not to break them!
3. Cook Them Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 3 to 4 hours. If you can, give them a gentle stir every hour to keep everything well-mixed. This way, every sausage can soak up that yummy sauce!
4. Keep Them Warm:
When they’re done cooking, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting. This will keep the Little Smokies nice and toasty until you’re ready to serve them.
5. Serve with Style:
When it’s time to enjoy, serve the BBQ Little Smokies warm so your guests can grab them with toothpicks or small forks. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in!
Enjoy these sweet and tangy, melt-in-your-mouth BBQ Little Smokies made effortlessly in the crock pot!
Can I Use Turkey Little Smokies Instead of Pork or Beef?
Absolutely! Turkey Little Smokies are a great healthier alternative and work perfectly with this recipe. The cooking time and method remain the same.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ Little Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of barbecue sauce if needed.
Can I Make These BBQ Little Smokies Spicier?
Yes! If you like a little heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also opt for a spicier barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can mix the sauce and add the Little Smokies to the slow cooker the night before, then store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it into the slow cooker and cook the next day as directed!
