As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to meal prep. That’s why I absolutely adore making Slow Cooker Little Smokies. They’re not just a quick solution for a hectic day; they’re also a delightful treat that brings everyone together. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as these little sausages simmer in a sweet and tangy sauce. Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones and keep them coming back for more. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your go-to list!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Little Smokies

Let’s face it, life can get chaotic, and finding time to cook can feel like a juggling act. That’s where these Slow Cooker Little Smokies shine! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a few minutes of prep. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. The result? A mouthwatering appetizer that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how quickly they disappear from the table!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Little Smokies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Slow Cooker Little Smokies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Little Smokies sausages: These bite-sized cocktail sausages are the star of the show. They’re juicy and packed with flavor, making them perfect for snacking.
Barbecue sauce: This adds a rich, smoky sweetness to the dish. You can use your favorite brand or even make your own for a personal touch.
Grape jelly: It might sound unusual, but this ingredient balances the tanginess of the barbecue sauce with a delightful sweetness. Trust me, it works wonders!

For those who like a little kick, consider adding hot sauce to the barbecue mix. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap the barbecue sauce for a sugar-free version. Remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Slow Cooker Little Smokies

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

To kick things off, grab your slow cooker and combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. I like to use a whisk to blend them together until smooth. The sweet and tangy mixture is what makes these Slow Cooker Little Smokies so irresistible! Make sure to scrape the sides to get every last bit of jelly incorporated. This step is quick, but it sets the stage for a flavor explosion. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

Step 2: Add the Little Smokies

Now it’s time to add the star of the show—those adorable Little Smokies! Gently toss them into the sauce, ensuring each sausage gets a good coating. I usually use a spatula to stir them around, making sure they’re all submerged in that delicious sauce. This is where the magic happens! The sausages will soak up all that flavor as they cook. It’s a simple step, but it makes all the difference in taste!

Step 3: Cooking Time

Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, go for the high setting for about 2 hours. If you can wait, the low setting for 4 hours works wonders too! Just remember to stir occasionally. This helps ensure even cooking and keeps those Little Smokies perfectly tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they’re done!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Slow Cooker Little Smokies are ready, it’s time to serve! I like to use a slotted spoon to dish them out, letting the excess sauce drip off. Serve them warm in a cute bowl or on a platter. For a fun touch, you can garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. These little bites are perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. Enjoy every savory bite!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip the stirring! It ensures even coating and flavor absorption.
For a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces for unique flavors.
Make these ahead of time and reheat for easy entertaining.
Keep toothpicks handy for easy serving and snacking!

Equipment Needed

Slow Cooker: The star of the show! Any size will do, but a 4-quart is perfect for this recipe.
Whisk: Great for mixing the sauce. A fork works too if you’re in a pinch!
Spatula: Ideal for stirring and coating the sausages evenly.
Slotted Spoon: Perfect for serving without excess sauce.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a fiery twist.
Sweet and Savory: Mix in some diced pineapple or apple slices for a fruity flavor that complements the sausages.
Healthier Option: Use turkey or chicken Little Smokies for a leaner alternative without sacrificing taste.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute with plant-based sausages for a delicious meat-free appetizer.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crunchy veggie sticks for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside a zesty coleslaw to balance the flavors.
Offer a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or mustard for variety.
For drinks, consider sweet iced tea or a light beer.
Present in a festive bowl with toothpicks for easy snacking!

FAQs about Slow Cooker Little Smokies

Can I make Slow Cooker Little Smokies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These little delights can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stove before serving. They taste just as delicious!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Little Smokies?

These tasty bites pair wonderfully with crunchy veggie sticks, zesty coleslaw, or a variety of dipping sauces. They’re perfect for any gathering!

Can I use different types of sausages?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with turkey or chicken Little Smokies for a healthier option. You can even try plant-based sausages for a vegetarian twist!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat them gently before enjoying again!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of grape jelly or use a sugar-free barbecue sauce. Tailor it to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Making Slow Cooker Little Smokies is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments. The joy of watching friends and family gather around a warm dish, sharing laughter and stories, is priceless. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy days, yet it feels special enough for celebrations. Each bite is a burst of flavor, reminding us that simple ingredients can create unforgettable memories. So, whether it’s game day or a cozy family night, these little sausages will surely bring smiles to your table. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Slow Cooker Little Smokies: Discover Their Deliciousness!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Slow Cooker Little Smokies are a delicious and easy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. They are made with cocktail sausages cooked in a flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies sausages
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup grape jelly

Instructions

In a slow cooker, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly.
Add the Little Smokies sausages to the slow cooker and stir to coat them in the sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier version, add hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
These can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Great for game day or holiday parties!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-4 hours
Category: Appetizer
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Slow Cooker Little Smokies, appetizer, party food, cocktail sausages