Crock Pot Little Smokies: Easy Amazing Party Appetizer

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Crock Pot Little Smokies have been my go-to for literally decades, ever since I first tasted them at a friend’s birthday party. The aroma alone – that sweet, smoky, slightly tangy scent – instantly made me nostalgic for childhood gatherings. This super simple slow cooker little smokies recipe is the absolute easiest way to get a crowd-pleasing appetizer on the table with minimal effort. The sausages simmer in a luscious, sticky glaze that’s just irresistible. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Little Smokies

You’re going to adore making these Crock Pot Little Smokies. Seriously, they’re a game-changer for any get-together!

They are incredibly simple to prepare, making them one of the best easy crock pot appetizers you can whip up.
The sweet and smoky flavor combination is a universal crowd-pleaser.
Minimal cleanup is always a win, and this recipe keeps it that way.
They are perfect for any occasion, from casual game nights to more formal events, truly making them a stellar party appetizer crock pot little smokies.
The slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up to enjoy your guests.
They’re wonderfully versatile and pair well with so many other dishes.
Even picky eaters, including kids, tend to devour them!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Little Smokies

Whipping up this amazing crock pot little smokies sauce recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed. Here’s what you’ll need to create that irresistible glaze for your cocktail sausages:

2 (14 oz) packages cocktail sausages (little smokies) – these are the stars of the show!
1 cup barbecue sauce – your favorite kind works, but a classic smoky BBQ adds great depth.
1/2 cup grape jelly – this is the secret to that signature sweet and tangy flavor that coats the sausages perfectly.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for a little umami kick and complexity.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a foundational savory note.
1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic and builds flavor.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smoky depth without extra heat.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – just a touch to round out the flavors.

How to Make Crock Pot Little Smokies

Making these addictive Crock Pot Little Smokies is incredibly simple, and the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get this delicious appetizer ready for your next party.

Step 1: Grab your slow cooker. First, combine the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper right into the insert of your slow cooker. Give it all a good stir until everything is beautifully blended into a glossy sauce. The aroma starting to develop is just fantastic!
Step 2: Now, add the cocktail sausages, also known as little smokies, into the slow cooker. Gently stir them around to make sure each little sausage is completely coated in that luscious sauce. You want every single one to be infused with that sweet and tangy goodness.
Step 3: Place the lid securely on the slow cooker. Now you get to decide your cooking time. You can cook them on the LOW setting for about 2–3 hours, or if you’re short on time, use the HIGH setting for 1–2 hours. The key is to cook them until the little smokies are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Step 4: While they’re cooking, it’s a good idea to give them a gentle stir every so often. This helps to keep the sausages evenly coated and ensures they don’t stick. You’ll know they’re ready when they look plump and are simmering in that irresistible glaze. Knowing how long to cook little smokies in crock pot really depends on your slow cooker and whether you choose low or high heat.
Step 5: Once they’re perfectly heated, give them one last stir. You’re ready to serve your amazing how to make crock pot little smokies creation right from the slow cooker or transfer them to your favorite serving dish. They’ll stay warm and inviting for your guests.

Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Little Smokies

Want to take your Crock Pot Little Smokies from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips, and your appetizer will be the star of any party!

Use cocktail sausages that aren’t too lean; a little fat helps them stay tender and absorb the sauce better.
Don’t overcook them! They just need to heat through, and overcooking can make them tough.
For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
Ensure your slow cooker isn’t packed too tightly; this allows the sauce to coat the sausages evenly.

What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Little Smokies?

The magic is really in that sweet and savory glaze. Using the combination of grape jelly and barbecue sauce creates that signature sticky coating. For an extra layer of flavor in your grape jelly little smokies crock pot, consider adding a bit of brown sugar or even a dash of liquid smoke.

Can I make Crock Pot Little Smokies ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the sauce and add the sausages to the slow cooker insert up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just pop it onto the LOW setting and cook for about 1-2 hours, or until heated through. This makes party prep so much easier!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Little Smokies?

The biggest pitfall is overcooking, which can make the sausages tough. Stick to the recommended cooking times. Another common mistake is not stirring the sausages occasionally, which can lead to uneven coating. Stirring halfway through helps ensure every bite is delicious.

Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Little Smokies

Once your Crock Pot Little Smokies are bubbly and irresistible, it’s time to think about how to serve them up. These little flavor bombs are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides elevates them even further, especially for events like game day crock pot little smokies gatherings.

My absolute favorite way to serve them is straight from a small slow cooker right on the buffet table, with a bowl of toothpicks nearby. Guests love being able to grab a warm, glazed sausage easily. Another great option is to serve them alongside mini slider buns; they make for adorable, bite-sized sandwiches! I also love to offer a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping. They pair wonderfully with chips, a simple green salad, or even some cut veggies for a balanced spread.

Nutrition Facts for Crock Pot Little Smokies

Per serving (recipe makes 10 servings):

Calories: 210 kcal
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Little Smokies

Even though these Crock Pot Little Smokies are usually gobbled up in minutes, you might find yourself with leftovers! If so, make sure to let them cool down a bit before storing. For the best results, transfer the little smokies and any remaining sauce into an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This makes them a fantastic option if you’re planning ahead for snacks or meals, especially since they’re such kid-friendly crock pot appetizers that can be easily reheated.

If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is a great option. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the easiest way is to reheat them gently in the slow cooker on the LOW setting until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat smaller portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure they heat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Little Smokies

What are Crock Pot Little Smokies?

Crock Pot Little Smokies are a beloved appetizer featuring small cocktail sausages cooked in a slow cooker with a sweet and savory sauce, typically made from barbecue sauce and grape jelly. They are incredibly popular for parties and gatherings because they are so easy to make and always a hit with guests of all ages. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious, fuss-free appetizer.

Are Crock Pot Little Smokies a good option for game day?

Absolutely! They are a quintessential game day crock pot little smokies food. Their warm, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile is perfect for snacking while watching sports. Plus, they stay warm in the slow cooker, so guests can graze throughout the event without you needing to constantly monitor them. They’re a guaranteed touchdown for your game day spread!

Can I make these as simple crock pot little smokies without grape jelly?

You certainly can! While grape jelly is traditional for that signature sweet and tangy flavor, you can create equally delicious simple crock pot little smokies without it. Try substituting with brown sugar, apricot preserves, or even a bit of extra barbecue sauce with a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. The key is to maintain a balance of sweet and savory in your sauce.

What are some other easy crock pot appetizers I can make?

Besides these fantastic little smokies, there are tons of other easy appetizers you can whip up in your slow cooker! Consider a creamy spinach artichoke dip, hearty chili, or even pulled pork sliders. Many recipes use similar base ingredients like barbecue sauce or cream cheese and offer a variety of flavors and textures, making your party spread diverse and exciting.

Variations of Crock Pot Little Smokies You Can Try

While the classic combination of barbecue sauce and grape jelly is fantastic, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Crock Pot Little Smokies! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your new favorite flavor profile.

Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, simply add a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This transforms them into a wonderfully spicy appetizer.
BBQ Lover’s Dream: If you’re a huge fan of barbecue, try using a spicier or smokier BBQ sauce as your base instead of a standard one. You can also add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of liquid smoke for an even deeper BBQ flavor in your BBQ little smokies crock pot creation.
Sweet and Sour Delight: Craving something different? Mix your barbecue sauce with pineapple juice and a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar for a delightful sweet and sour crock pot smokies flavor. This adds a tangy twist that’s really refreshing.
Mustard Magic: For a less sweet, more savory option, try replacing the grape jelly with Dijon mustard or even a honey mustard. This gives the sausages a zesty, tangy coating that’s equally delicious and perfect for a more sophisticated palate.