These BBQ Little Smokies are the perfect snack for any gathering! They are juicy sausages simmered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, they’re bite-sized and absolutely irresistible.
Honestly, they disappear faster than you can say “yummy!” I always keep a batch in the Crock Pot during parties; they keep warm and guests just can’t get enough. 🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies Sausages: These mini sausages are the star of the dish! You can use classic beef or pork Smokies, but turkey or a plant-based version works well too if you’re looking for lighter options.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce for convenience. If you prefer homemade, you can mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a personal touch. For a fun twist, try using a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick!
Grape Jelly: This is what gives the dish its unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitute, try raspberry or apple jelly for a similar taste. You could also use honey or maple syrup, which can add a deeper flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional but adds a nice tanginess. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard will work too. For a different flavor, try using a whole grain mustard.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Getting the sauce just right is key for this dish. You want it smooth and thick enough to coat your sausages nicely. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Mix the barbecue sauce and grape jelly well in a bowl until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps from the jelly.
- Adding Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce enhances the flavor, but ensure they’re mixed in thoroughly for an even taste.
- After pouring the sauce over the Smokies, give them a gentle stir to coat each sausage evenly. Stirring occasionally during cooking helps maintain that nice glaze.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours as this is perfect for both heating and thickening the sauce. Check it halfway and stir again.
With these tips in hand, your BBQ Little Smokies will be a hit, perfect for snacking any time! Enjoy your cooking!
BBQ Little Smokies Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs package of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 2-3 hours to cook in the Crock Pot. Perfect for gatherings, it allows you to spend more time with your guests while the Little Smokies cook away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smokies:
Start by placing the Little Smokies sausages into your Crock Pot. Make sure they are spread out evenly for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly. If you’re using Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, add them now and mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps, please!
3. Combine with Smokies:
Pour the delicious sauce mixture over the Little Smokies in the Crock Pot. Use a spoon to gently stir, making sure all the sausages are coated evenly in the sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Cook Until Perfect:
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 2-3 hours. Stir the sausages occasionally to ensure they are heated evenly and the sauce thickens up nicely.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve the BBQ Little Smokies warm straight from the Crock Pot. Make it easy for your guests by providing toothpicks or small skewers for easy snacking. Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors!
This recipe creates a great dish that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun family snack night. Your friends and family will love it!
Can I Use Another Type of Sauce Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you can substitute the barbecue sauce with a teriyaki sauce or a sweet chili sauce. Just keep in mind that this will change the taste of the dish, but can be equally delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ Little Smokies in advance! You can mix everything and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just pop it in the Crock Pot when you’re ready to serve!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover BBQ Little Smokies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Can I Freeze BBQ Little Smokies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let the cooked sausages cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating them in the Crock Pot or microwave!
