Little Smokies are such a nostalgic treat! Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or a festive holiday party, these delicious little sausages never seem to disappoint. They’re savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for dipping. Honestly, who can resist that sticky, barbecue sauce flavor combined with a touch of grape jelly? Making Little Smokies is also quite simple, which means more time for you to enjoy the company of your friends and family. This recipe is all about bringing people together while keeping the kitchen time to a minimum. You can sit back, relax, and let your slow cooker do the hard work. Let’s get started on this fun, tasty journey so you can serve up this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Why This Recipe Works
Little Smokies are the perfect crowd-pleaser, combining a sweet and savory flavor profile that appeals to all ages. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing for quick preparation without sacrificing taste or quality. Utilizing a slow cooker ensures that the smoky sausages absorb the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce and grape jelly, creating a delicious sticky coating that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Little Smokies
These Little Smokies are not just easy to make; they also evoke memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Whether it’s game day, a holiday party, or a casual get-together, this recipe is a fantastic choice. The blend of tangy BBQ sauce and sweet grape jelly creates a unique taste that is irresistibly addictive. Plus, minimal cleanup is required, making it your go-to recipe for entertaining without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 20 ounces Lil’ Smokies cocktail sausages
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 3/4 cup grape jelly
Preparing the Little Smokies
Placing Ingredients in the Crockpot
Start by placing the 20 ounces of Lil’ Smokies cocktail sausages into your crockpot. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together beautifully during cooking.
Adding the BBQ Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the cocktail sausages. Choose your favorite BBQ brand for the best flavor. The combination of sweetness and smokiness sets the foundation for an irresistible dish.
Mixing in the Grape Jelly
Next, add 3/4 cup of grape jelly to the crockpot. This is the secret ingredient that enhances the overall flavor, creating a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the sausages perfectly.
Covering and Cooking
Mix the ingredients gently until the sausages are coated. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to mingle and results in a luscious, sticky sauce.
Serving and Enjoying
Once cooked, give the Little Smokies a gentle stir before serving. Enjoy them hot from the crockpot, and watch your guests devour every last bite!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Little Smokies with toothpicks for easy serving at parties. They also work as a delicious appetizer alongside a charcuterie board, complementing cheeses, crackers, and fresh vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of grape jelly to suit your taste.
- For a spicier version, consider mixing in some hot sauce or adding chili flakes.
- Make sure to stir the ingredients midway through cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.
Variations
- Swap out BBQ sauce for teriyaki or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Add sliced onions and bell peppers for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
- Use honey instead of grape jelly for a different sweet touch.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. They can also be frozen for longer storage, though the texture may vary slightly upon thawing and reheating.
Pairing Ideas
Serve these Little Smokies with crispy potato wedges, coleslaw, or a refreshing cucumber salad to round out your gathering menu. They also pair well with your favorite beverages, from sodas to craft beers, for a fun and festive spread.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Lil’ Smokies for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Lil’ Smokies, but you may need to cook them slightly longer to ensure they’re heated through.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Any BBQ sauce will work, but smoky or sweet varieties typically yield the best results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge. Then, simply cook them in the crockpot when you’re ready to serve.
Are Little Smokies gluten-free?
Most brands of Little Smokies are gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure.
How can I make these Little Smokies spicier?
Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce before mixing it with the sausages for an extra kick.
These Little Smokies are sure to become your go-to appetizer for any occasion. Their delightful flavor and ease of preparation make them irresistible to guests and family alike. Enjoy the process and the delicious results—these little bites are packed with joy!
Print
Little Smokies
These Little Smokies are a nostalgic treat, perfect for parties and gatherings. With their sweet and savory sauce, they’re a delightful and easy appetizer.
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 20 ounces Lil' Smokies cocktail sausages
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 3/4 cup grape jelly
Instructions
- Place the Lil' Smokies in the crockpot.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the sausages.
- Add grape jelly and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
- Stir gently before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of grape jelly.
For added spice, mix in hot sauce or chili flakes.
Stir midway through cooking for even flavor distribution.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
