Crockpot Little Smokies | Easy Party Favorite for Every Season

Crockpot Little Smokies are a staple appetizer for any occasion where you want to feed a crowd with minimal effort. These bite-sized sausages are simmered in a flavorful sauce that blends sweetness and savory notes to perfection. Whether it’s a holiday, game day, or casual get-together, this recipe makes hosting easier and tastier. With just a few basic ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, you can serve something everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a favorite for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prep — just three ingredients and about five minutes of your time. Second, it uses a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it while focusing on other tasks or guests. Third, the flavor is truly addictive. The sweet and tangy sauce clings to the smoky sausages, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize with different flavors or ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies
These mini sausages come pre-cooked and are typically made from beef, pork, or turkey. You’ll find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Use your preferred type based on taste or dietary needs.

1 cup barbecue sauce
Barbecue sauce brings richness, tang, and a smoky depth. Choose a variety that fits your flavor style, from spicy and bold to sweet and mild. You can even experiment with regional flavors like Kansas City or Carolina-style sauces.

½ cup grape jelly
This might surprise you, but grape jelly adds balance and a gentle sweetness that complements the barbecue sauce beautifully. You can also swap it out for similar alternatives like cranberry sauce, apricot preserves, or honey depending on the season or your flavor preferences.

These three ingredients create a perfect blend of flavor and texture that’s warm, sticky, and impossible to resist.

How to Make Crockpot Little Smokies

Making these little smokies couldn’t be easier. You’ll mix the sauce, add the sausages, and let the slow cooker take it from there. The sausages slowly absorb the sweet and tangy mixture while staying juicy and tender. It’s an excellent choice when you want something warm and hearty without hovering over the stove.

Since this recipe holds well in the slow cooker, it’s also a great option for events where food needs to stay warm and ready to serve throughout the day or night.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix Your Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and grape jelly until the mixture is fully blended and smooth.

Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Pour the little smokies into your slow cooker. Top with the sauce and stir everything together until the sausages are evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook on Low or High
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. If you need a quicker version, set it on high and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours instead. Stir once or twice during the process for best results.

Step 4: Serve Warm
When everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, switch the crockpot to warm. Serve with cocktail picks or small forks for easy snacking.

Helpful Tips

For a thicker glaze, cook on low and allow the sauce to slowly reduce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

You can easily store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They reheat well in the microwave or on the stove.

Try mixing in a little heat with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Or add a spoonful of Dijon mustard for more complexity.

If you’re preparing for a larger gathering, doubling the recipe works beautifully. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold everything without overflowing.

Details

Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky
Texture: Juicy sausages in a thick, sticky sauce
Occasion: Ideal for gatherings, parties, and holidays
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 to 4 hours depending on heat setting

Notes

This recipe is incredibly easy to customize. You can swap the grape jelly for cranberry or peach preserves depending on what you have on hand or the occasion. For a more savory profile, use a spicy barbecue sauce or stir in a touch of Worcestershire sauce.

Serving the sausages on mini skewers or with slider buns makes them even more fun for parties. You can also offer them with a variety of dipping sauces for more flavor combinations.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Estimated)
Calories	265 kcal
Total Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	8 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	35 mg
Sodium	600 mg
Carbohydrates	13 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	10 g
Protein	7 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What sauce works best for crockpot little smokies?
Barbecue sauce paired with grape jelly is a classic combo, offering both sweet and smoky elements. Other great choices include chili sauce, teriyaki, or even honey mustard.

How long should little smokies cook in a crockpot?
They should be cooked on low for about 3 to 4 hours or on high for roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Both settings work, so choose based on your schedule.

Can crockpot little smokies be made without barbecue sauce?
Yes. You can leave out the barbecue sauce and use grape jelly alone, or substitute with other condiments like spicy mustard or even sweet chili sauce.

Are little smokies better cooked on low or high?
Low heat gives a richer flavor and thicker sauce, while high heat is great when you’re short on time. Both methods produce great results.

Storage Instructions

Let the sausages cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, microwave until warmed through or simmer gently in a saucepan. You can also freeze them for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Little Smokies are the ultimate make-ahead appetizer. With only three ingredients and virtually no prep, this recipe takes the stress out of entertaining. It’s comforting, flavorful, and flexible enough to match your event’s theme or your personal taste. Whether you’re planning a big celebration or just want something cozy to enjoy on a quiet evening, these saucy little bites never disappoint. Try them once, and they’ll become a regular part of your recipe rotation.

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