Little Smokies Crockpot Recipe | Easy BBQ Party Appetizer

Little smokies crockpot recipes are one of those party secrets that busy moms have been passing down for years. I have always loved making these for family gatherings because they are simple to prepare, and the whole family will love them.

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Nothing makes a house feel like home other than the smell of something sweet and savory bubbling away in the crockpot. All you need is four simple ingredients and five minutes of prep time, and you are done.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 4 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep
• The perfect party appetizer for game day, holidays, or potlucks
• Sweet, sticky BBQ sauce the whole family will love
• A true dump, stir, and go recipe
• Keeps warm in the crockpot all party long

A Family Party Staple

I first started making little smokies crockpot style when my kids were small and I needed a reliable party appetizer that I could set up and forget about. These BBQ little smokies disappeared every single time.

Now my grandchildren reach for them first at every family gathering. There is something about that sweet, sticky brown sugar BBQ sauce that no one can resist. I know your family will love them just as much as mine does.

What Are Little Smokies?

Little smokies are small, fully cooked smoked cocktail sausages. You will find them near the hot dogs and sausages at the grocery store. The most common brand is Hillshire Farm.

Since they are already cooked, all you need to do is warm them through and coat them in a delicious sauce. This is one of those truly simple recipes that looks and tastes impressive every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 package (28 ounces) little smokies (cocktail sausages)
• 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand. A sweet BBQ sauce works best, but smoky or honey BBQ are both wonderful options.
• Brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar both work. Dark brown sugar adds a deeper, richer flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce: Just one teaspoon adds a savory depth that perfectly balances the sweetness.

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Equipment Needed

• Crockpot (4 quart or larger)
• Non-stick cooking spray or crockpot liner
• Large measuring cup or mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula for stirring

How to Make Little Smokies Crockpot Recipe

1. Prepare the crockpot. Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This makes cleanup so much easier. Pro tip: You can also use a slow cooker liner for even faster cleanup.
2. Mix the sauce. In a large measuring cup, combine the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until everything is well blended and the brown sugar is dissolved. Pro tip: Taste the sauce before adding it to the crockpot. Add a little more brown sugar if you want it sweeter, or a splash more Worcestershire for more depth.
3. Add the little smokies. Rinse the little smokies under cool water and drain them well. Add them to the prepared crockpot and spread them out in an even layer.
4. Pour the sauce. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the smokies and stir gently to make sure every single one is coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Cook low and slow. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once halfway through if you think of it. Pro tip: Your house will smell absolutely amazing while these cook. The neighbors may show up uninvited!

Variations

• Grape jelly smokies: Replace the brown sugar with 1/2 cup grape jelly for a sweet and tangy twist. This crockpot little smokies grape jelly variation always gets rave reviews.
• Honey BBQ: Swap 1/4 cup of the BBQ sauce for honey for a lighter, floral sweetness.
• Spicy smokies: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ mixture for a little kick.
• Chili sauce smokies: Use 1/2 cup chili sauce in place of some of the BBQ sauce for a tangy, savory variation.
• Bacon wrapped: Wrap each little smokie in a small strip of bacon before adding to the crockpot for an extra indulgent version.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store leftover little smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or pop them back in the crockpot on the warm setting for about 30 minutes.

You also have the option to freeze these for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Other Super Easy Appitizer Recipes You Will Love

• Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
• Crockpot Meatballs in Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce
• Baked Brie with Walnuts and Honey

Frequently Asked Questions

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