Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer or simple weeknight snack. I remember being a busy parent, constantly juggling work and family, and these little smoked sausages were a lifesaver. Now, I use the Instant Pot to make them! Healthy options are never far away! Dump everything in the crock pot, set it, and forget it. It’s that simple! Get ready to enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Growing up, my Grandma always made little cocktail smokies for every family gathering. The sweet and smoky aroma wafted through her house, signaling that good times and delicious food were ahead. While her recipe involved a stovetop and constant stirring, Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies recreate that same nostalgic flavor with minimal effort. This recipe is a tribute to those cherished memories, offering a modern and convenient twist on a timeless classic.

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) package Little Smokies cocktail sausages
• 1 (18 ounce) bottle BBQ sauce (your favorite brand and flavor)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe

1. Pour the BBQ sauce into your crockpot.
2. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well.
4. Gently stir in the Little Smokies, ensuring they are coated with the sauce.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours.
6. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Serve hot directly from the crockpot or transfer to a serving dish.

Expert Tips for Best Results

For the most flavorful Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies, consider browning the sausages in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. It introduces a delightful caramelized note. If you like a little heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture will kick things up, to avoid a heavy taste, try using hot sauce only. Be mindful not to overcook the Little Smokies; they are already cooked and simply need to be heated through and coated in the sauce. Overcooking can make them tough. Finally, for a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Classic additions for serving include toothpicks for an easy appetizer. If you’re looking for different serving styles, think about preparing a big batch of macaroni & cheese, and adding the smokies to it! In addition, you can serve it with slider buns for mini BBQ sandwiches. Alternatively, try them as a topping for baked potatoes, alongside creamy coleslaw for a full meal, or as a party bowl with dips like a cream cheese dip and chips. Consider serving this recipe with a side of homemade corn bread or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies are the perfect solution for any occasion where you need a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish. This simple recipe combines smoky flavors with a subtle sweetness that everyone will enjoy. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste by using your favorite barbecue sauce or adding a touch of heat. Whether you are hosting a party, watching the game, or just need a simple weeknight treat, these little smokies are sure to be a hit. Bring convenience and deliciousness to your table!

Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer or simple weeknight snack. Dump everything in the crock pot, set it, and forget it!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 package Little Smokies cocktail sausages (14 ounce)
• 1 bottle BBQ sauce (18 ounce) your favorite brand and flavor
• 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for extra smoky flavor

Equipment

• Crockpot
• Skillet
• Serving dish

Method

 

1. Pour the BBQ sauce into your crockpot.
2. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well.
4. Gently stir in the Little Smokies, ensuring they are coated with the sauce.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours.
6. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Serve hot directly from the crockpot or transfer to a serving dish.

Notes

For the most flavorful Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies, consider browning the sausages in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot to introduce a delightful caramelized note. If you like a little heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture will kick things up, to avoid a heavy taste, try using hot sauce only. Be mindful not to overcook the Little Smokies; they are already cooked and simply need to be heated through and coated in the sauce. Overcooking can make them tough. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

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