Crockpot Little Smokies

These Crockpot Little Smokies are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, offering a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a game day, a casual get-together, or a family gathering, they are sure to be a hit.

The tender sausages paired with the rich barbecue sauce and grape jelly sauce create a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. This dish is easy to make and doesn’t require much prep time, making it the ultimate stress-free snack for entertaining. Serve them straight from the slow cooker to keep them warm, and you’ll have an irresistible appetizer in no time.

Full Recipe:

• 1 (14 oz) package of Little Smokies sausages

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

• 1/2 cup grape jelly

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

2. Place the Little Smokies in a crockpot or slow cooker.

3. Pour the sauce mixture over the sausages and stir to coat evenly.

4. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Once done, serve and enjoy the perfect sweet and savory treat!

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 3-4 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

Crockpot Little Smokies: A Perfect Party Snack

Crockpot Little Smokies are a beloved appetizer that combines the rich, savory flavor of sausages with a tangy and sweet sauce. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or any party, these bite-sized snacks are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a popular choice for busy hosts. The best part is that the slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to focus on enjoying the party or spending time with your guests. In this article, we will explore the history of Little Smokies, how to serve them, variations you can try, and some helpful tips for making the dish even better.

The History of Little Smokies

Little Smokies are mini cocktail sausages, a variation of the traditional larger sausage. These bite-sized treats first became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century, especially for casual events like barbecues and holiday gatherings. The combination of the small sausages with a sweet and savory sauce became a go-to party snack. Over time, the versatility of Little Smokies allowed them to be served in various forms—whether glazed with sauces, wrapped in bacon, or served on their own. The introduction of the slow cooker, or Crockpot, further simplified the preparation process, turning the Little Smokies into a popular crockpot recipe. Their ease of preparation and great taste have made them a staple at many events.

Why Crockpot Little Smokies Are So Popular

Crockpot Little Smokies are loved for their simplicity and versatility. The recipe is designed to be thrown together quickly, with minimal effort, and left to cook in a slow cooker. This makes it the perfect dish for busy hosts, as you can set it and forget it while focusing on other aspects of the gathering. Additionally, the ingredients are inexpensive and readily available, making it an affordable option for large crowds. The combination of the sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors creates a taste experience that guests can’t resist.

The fact that they can be served straight from the slow cooker, keeping them warm and ready for guests, also adds to their appeal. These smokies can be served with toothpicks, making them a convenient finger food. They can also be paired with a variety of side dishes, dips, or garnishes, making them an adaptable choice for different types of parties.

Serving Ideas for Crockpot Little Smokies

Crockpot Little Smokies are versatile and can be served in various ways, depending on the theme of your party or the preferences of your guests. Here are some popular serving ideas that will enhance the presentation and flavor of this appetizer:

1. Game Day Delight: Serve the Little Smokies alongside other popular game day foods like buffalo wings, sliders, and nachos. Add a few bowls of dip such as ranch or blue cheese, as these complement the rich flavor of the smokies. Set up a self-serve snack station where guests can grab their favorite finger foods and enjoy the game.

2. BBQ Party Snack: If you’re hosting a barbecue or cookout, Crockpot Little Smokies fit perfectly with the smoky flavors of grilled meats. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob. You can also serve them in small buns with a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce for a mini slider version.

3. Holiday Gatherings: Little Smokies are a favorite during the holiday season, especially when hosting a Christmas or New Year’s Eve party. Add a festive touch by serving them on a platter with holiday-themed garnishes, like sprigs of rosemary or cranberries. These little bites pair beautifully with mulled wine or hot apple cider.

4. Casual Dinner: For a cozy, casual dinner, serve the Crockpot Little Smokies with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal.

Variations of Crockpot Little Smokies

While the classic version of Crockpot Little Smokies with barbecue sauce and grape jelly is a favorite, there are numerous variations that you can try to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas for customizing this recipe:

1. Spicy Version: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some sriracha sauce, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the barbecue and grape jelly mixture. This will add a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the jelly. You can also add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra boost of heat.

2. Honey Mustard Style: For a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, substitute the barbecue sauce with honey mustard. You can also add a bit of Dijon mustard to give the sauce a little zing. This variation works particularly well if you’re hosting a more refined gathering or prefer a lighter, less smoky flavor.

3. Sweet and Sour: For those who love the balance of sweet and tangy, swap out the grape jelly for a combination of pineapple preserves or orange marmalade with a splash of apple cider vinegar. This twist on the traditional flavor profile creates a fresh, fruity taste that works wonderfully with the smokiness of the sausages.

4. Bacon-Wrapped Smokies: If you want to take things up a notch, wrap each Little Smokie in a slice of bacon before placing them in the Crockpot. The bacon adds an extra layer of savory flavor that complements the sweet sauce. This variation is a crowd-pleaser and can be served on skewers for easy eating.

5. Asian-Inspired: Try adding a bit of soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce to the slow cooker to give the Little Smokies an Asian flair. You can garnish the dish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a tasty twist.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Little Smokies

1. Use High-Quality Sausages: The flavor of the Little Smokies depends largely on the quality of the sausages. Choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy for the best results.

2. Adjust the Sauce to Taste: The beauty of this dish is in the versatility of the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of grape jelly or brown sugar. For a tangier flavor, add a bit more mustard or vinegar.

3. Don’t Overcook: While the Crockpot does most of the work, it’s important not to overcook the sausages. Overcooking can result in tough, dried-out smokies. Stick to the recommended cook time to keep them juicy and tender.

4. Serve with Dips: Offering a variety of dipping sauces can take the flavor of the Little Smokies to the next level. Options like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy barbecue sauce are popular choices.

5. Keep Them Warm: One of the great advantages of using a slow cooker is that it can keep the sausages warm for hours. If you’re hosting a long event, the Crockpot will help ensure that your Little Smokies stay at the perfect serving temperature.

Conclusion

Crockpot Little Smokies are a simple yet delicious appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a game day gathering, or a holiday party, these bite-sized sausages will be a hit with your guests. With minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, you can focus on enjoying the event instead of being stuck in the kitchen. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with various flavors and ingredients, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. So, next time you’re planning a party, consider making Crockpot Little Smokies – they’ll surely be the star of the spread!