Crock pot little smokies are like a warm hug on a chilly day—smoky, sweet, and downright irresistible. Picture this: juicy sausages bathed in a luscious sauce that dances between tangy and sweet, filling your home with an aroma so captivating that even the neighbor’s cat will come knocking at your door.
Remember those game nights or family gatherings where everyone huddles around the table, plates piled high with snacks? That’s where these little gems shine. Whether it’s a Sunday football showdown or a holiday potluck, crock pot little smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles and second helpings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crock pot little smokies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.
- The smoky flavor paired with a hint of sweetness creates a delicious taste sensation.
- Their appealing presentation makes them look as good as they taste, turning heads at any gathering.
- Plus, they can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, showcasing their versatility!
Ingredients for crock pot little smokies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Little Smokies Sausages: These bite-sized sausages bring a delightful burst of flavor and are the star of the show.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand for the best flavor; it adds that sticky sweetness we all love.
- Honey: A touch of honey enhances the sauce’s sweetness while balancing the savory notes of the sausages.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just a splash gives depth to the flavor profile and elevates the overall taste.
- Hot Sauce (optional): For those who like it spicy, adding some hot sauce can kick things up a notch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make crock pot little smokies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Start by gathering your trusty crock pot and measuring cups. You’ll also want some serving utensils because once these little smokies are ready, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “delicious.”
Step 2: Mix Your Sauces
In a medium bowl, combine barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir until well mixed—this is where the magic happens!
Step 3: Place Little Smokies in the Crock Pot
Add those adorable little sausages into your crock pot. Pour your glorious sauce mixture over them, making sure every sausage is coated like they just won a spa day.
Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow
Set your crock pot to low heat and let it cook for about 4 hours. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re short on time (who isn’t?), you can cook them on high for about 2 hours instead.
Step 5: Stir Occasionally
If you can resist opening the lid (the aroma will tempt you), give them a gentle stir halfway through cooking. This ensures every little smokie gets its fair share of that delicious sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once done cooking, serve them straight from the pot. They make excellent finger food—just grab a toothpick and dive in!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every last bite!
These crock pot little smokies will not only delight your taste buds but also create lasting memories with friends and family gathered around the table. So next time you have an event or just feel like indulging in something savory and comforting, remember this recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite!
You Must Know
- This delightful crock pot little smokies recipe is not just about the taste; it simplifies entertaining.
- With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it becomes the star of any gathering.
- Plus, who can resist those little sausages swimming in a savory sauce?
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For optimal results, combine your favorite ingredients in the crock pot first. Let them mingle while you enjoy your day. Serve the little smokies on toothpicks for easy snacking, and watch as they disappear during game night.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe. Swap out barbecue sauce for sweet chili sauce or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some sautéed onions or bell peppers to enhance the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply toss them back into the crock pot on low until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sausages for better flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip browning them first for added depth.
- Experiment with sauces—mixing different ones can yield deliciously unique results.
Sometimes I sneak a few little smokies for myself before serving them at parties. My friends always tease me, but hey, a chef needs quality control!
FAQs:
What are crock pot little smokies?
Crock pot little smokies are bite-sized sausages that are cooked slowly in a crock pot, often combined with flavorful sauces. Common ingredients include barbecue sauce, grape jelly, or mustard. This dish makes an excellent appetizer for parties and gatherings thanks to its simplicity and delicious taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each sausage juicy and packed with flavor.
How long do I cook little smokies in the crock pot?
To achieve perfectly cooked little smokies in your crock pot, set your slow cooker on low for about 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Cooking them slowly allows the flavors to develop and ensures that the sausages remain tender. Always check that they reach a safe internal temperature before serving.
Can I use frozen little smokies in a crock pot recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen little smokies in your crock pot recipes! They do not require thawing beforehand. Just add them directly to the crock pot along with your chosen sauces and cook as per your usual timing. Keep in mind that you might need to add an extra hour of cooking time if starting from frozen.
What can I serve with crock pot little smokies?
Crock pot little smokies pair wonderfully with various sides and snacks. Consider serving them alongside toothpicks for easy eating at parties. They also go well with chips, veggies, or sliders for a more substantial meal. For dipping options, offer barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard to complement their savory flavor.
Conclusion for crock pot little smokies:
Crock pot little smokies are a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any gathering. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, they offer a hassle-free way to impress your guests. By following the cooking times and tips provided, you’ll ensure these delicious sausages turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Crock Pot Little Smokies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crock Pot Little Smokies are a delightful appetizer featuring juicy sausages simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for any gathering and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Little Smokies Sausages
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1/3 cup Honey
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Hot Sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Gather your crock pot and serving utensils.
- In a medium bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using) until well combined.
- Place the Little Smokies into the crock pot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring all sausages are coated.
- Cook on low heat for 4 hours or high heat for 2 hours.
- Stir gently halfway through cooking to evenly coat the sausages with sauce.
- Serve directly from the crock pot with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sausage (28g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - Feel free to customize the recipe by substituting BBQ sauce with sweet chili sauce or adding diced jalapeños for extra heat. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
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