Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating irresistible **Slow Cooker Little Smokies**! Also affectionately known as Crockpot Cocktail Sausages, these bite-sized wonders deliver a savory explosion of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for any gathering, from casual game days to elegant holiday parties, this incredibly easy recipe transforms simple mini sausages into an unforgettable appetizer that consistently vanishes from the serving platter in record time.
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Table of Contents
What Are Little Smokies and Cocktail Sausages?
**Little Smokies**, often interchangeably called cocktail sausages or mini wieners, are small, pre-cooked sausages that are a staple in appetizer spreads across the United States. These miniature delights are typically made from pork, beef, chicken, or a blend of meats, offering a variety of flavors and textures to suit different palates. Their small size makes them incredibly versatile for serving as finger food, perfect for casual gatherings where guests can easily enjoy them without needing cutlery.
The beauty of Little Smokies lies in their ability to absorb flavors from sauces during the cooking process. Whether simmered in a tangy barbecue sauce, a sweet and sour glaze, or a spicy concoction, they transform into flavorful morsels that are both satisfying and addictive. They are a beloved choice for potlucks, holiday parties, Super Bowl Sundays, and family get-togethers, appreciated for their convenience and universally appealing taste.
Why You Will Love This Easy Recipe
This Slow Cooker Little Smokies recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious, no-fuss appetizer. Here’s why this recipe will become a go-to in your culinary repertoire:
- **Effortless Preparation:** With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of your slow cooker, most of the work is hands-off. Simply combine and set it to cook!
- **Irresistible Flavor:** The combination of savory sausages, sweet brown sugar, smoky paprika, and a rich BBQ sauce creates a complex and deeply satisfying flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- **Crowd-Pleasing Perfection:** These cocktail sausages are universally loved by both adults and children, making them a guaranteed hit at any party or family meal.
- **Versatile Serving Options:** Serve them as a classic toothpick appetizer, incorporate them into mini sandwiches, or even pair them with a main course. Their adaptability knows no bounds.
- **Ideal for Entertaining:** The slow cooker keeps them warm and ready to serve for hours, freeing you up to socialize and enjoy your event without constant kitchen duty.
- **Budget-Friendly:** Little Smokies and the accompanying sauce ingredients are typically inexpensive, offering a flavorful dish without breaking the bank.
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Little Smokies
Creating mouthwatering Slow Cooker Little Smokies starts with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe so special:
- **Little Smokies Packaged Sausage:** These are the stars of our dish! You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, often near hot dogs or bacon. While this recipe uses two 14oz packs for a generous batch, feel free to adjust based on your crowd size. They come in various varieties, including all-beef, pork, or a beef-pork blend. You can even find turkey or chicken versions for a lighter option. Just ensure they are pre-cooked and ready to be simmered.
- **BBQ Sauce:** This is where much of the flavor comes from. I personally love using a robust Kansas City-style BBQ sauce like Gates for its rich, smoky, and slightly sweet profile. However, the beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Choose your absolute favorite brand and style – whether it’s a tangy Carolina vinegar-based sauce, a sweet and sticky Memphis-style, or a spicy chipotle blend, it will work wonderfully. Homemade BBQ sauce is also an excellent option if you have a go-to recipe.
- **Brown Sugar:** Brown sugar plays a crucial role in balancing the savory notes of the sausage and the tanginess of the BBQ sauce, creating a delicious glaze. Both dark and light brown sugar work well, with dark brown sugar offering a deeper, more molasses-rich flavor. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal preference for sweetness. For those watching their sugar intake, a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup with brown sugar can be used.
- **Garlic Powder:** A pantry staple, garlic powder adds an aromatic depth that enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering the other flavors. It provides a subtle warmth and complexity.
- **Chili Powder:** This spice blend often contains a mix of chili pepper, cumin, oregano, and sometimes garlic powder. It introduces a mild, earthy heat and a beautiful color to the sauce, making it more dynamic.
- **Smoked Paprika:** Smoked paprika is a fantastic addition, infusing the dish with an authentic smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully, even if your sauce isn’t heavily smoked. It also contributes a lovely reddish hue to the finished dish.
Choosing the Perfect Sauce for Your Cocktail Sausages
While classic BBQ sauce is a fan favorite, the versatility of Little Smokies allows for endless sauce possibilities. Experimenting with different flavors can keep things exciting and cater to diverse palates. Here are some fantastic sauce options to consider for your slow cooker cocktail sausages:
- **BBQ Sauce (Sweet, Smoky, or Spicy):** The reigning champion! Choose a sweet and tangy variety for classic appeal, a smoky one for deep flavor, or a spicy version with a kick of habanero or jalapeño for those who love heat. My personal preference leans towards a robust Kansas City-style BBQ sauce.
- **Sweet and Sour Sauce:** For a bright and zesty twist, a good quality sweet and sour sauce offers a delightful balance of tangy and sweet notes that beautifully coat the savory sausages. This option is particularly popular at Asian-themed gatherings.
- **Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce:** This unexpectedly delicious combination creates a sticky, sweet, and subtly spicy glaze. Simply mix equal parts grape jelly (or apricot preserves) and chili sauce (like Heinz Chili Sauce) in your slow cooker, and let it melt into a gorgeous, flavorful coating.
- **Honey Mustard Sauce:** If you enjoy a milder, yet tangy and sweet flavor, honey mustard is an excellent choice. Its creamy texture adheres well to the sausages, offering a comforting and familiar taste.
- **Buffalo Sauce:** For those who crave a fiery kick, tossing your Little Smokies in buffalo sauce is a fantastic idea. Adjust the amount and heat level of the sauce to achieve your desired spice intensity. Serve with blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping!
- **Teriyaki Sauce:** Bring an umami-rich, savory-sweet profile to your cocktail sausages with teriyaki sauce. Its ginger and soy notes create an irresistible glaze, perfect for an Asian-inspired appetizer spread.
- **Cranberry Sauce:** Especially wonderful during the fall and holiday seasons, cranberry sauce (whole or jellied) can be combined with a touch of chili sauce or brown sugar for a sweet, tart, and festive glaze.
- **Maple Syrup & Dijon Mustard:** A delightful sweet and savory combination that adds a touch of elegance. The sharpness of the Dijon cuts through the sweetness of the maple, creating a sophisticated flavor.
Pro Tip: Whichever sauce you choose, taste it before adding it to the slow cooker. You can always adjust the sweetness, spice, or tanginess by adding a bit more brown sugar, a dash of hot sauce, or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Little Smokies
Preparing these delectable cocktail sausages in a slow cooker is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal fuss for maximum flavor. The detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card towards the bottom of this page. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- **Combine Ingredients:** Simply add your Little Smokies (straight from the package, no need to pre-cook), your preferred BBQ sauce, brown sugar or sweetener, garlic powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika directly into your slow cooker pot.
- **Stir Thoroughly:** Give everything a good stir to ensure the sausages are evenly coated with the delicious sauce mixture. This guarantees every bite is packed with flavor.
- **Slow Cook to Perfection:** Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on a low setting for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour, until the sausages are heated through, and the sauce has thickened to a glossy, appetizing consistency. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, tenderizing the sausages and creating a rich, sticky glaze.
That’s it! Your Slow Cooker Little Smokies are ready to be served and enjoyed. The aroma alone will have your guests eager to dig in!
Creative Serving Suggestions for Little Smokies
While simply serving them with toothpicks is always a hit, these versatile cocktail sausages can be presented in a variety of creative ways to elevate your appetizer spread or even complement a meal. Here are some popular and delightful serving suggestions:
- **Classic Toothpick Appetizer:** The easiest and most traditional method! Simply provide a bowl of the warm Little Smokies with a side of toothpicks. Guests can easily spear their own, making it a perfect grab-and-go party snack.
- **”Pigs in a Blanket” Reinvented:** For a fun and nostalgic twist, wrap each warm Little Smokie in a small triangle of store-bought crescent roll dough. Bake according to crescent roll package directions until golden brown. This classic combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and adds a lovely pastry element.
- **Mini Slider Sandwiches:** Transform your Little Smokies into adorable mini sliders. Serve them on small slider buns or Hawaiian rolls, offering a selection of condiments like mustard, ketchup, finely diced onions, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra layer of flavor. They make for hearty finger food.
- **Colorful Skewers:** Thread Little Smokies onto small wooden skewers with other colorful ingredients. Think chunks of bell pepper (red, yellow, green), pineapple pieces for a sweet-tart contrast, cherry tomatoes, or even small cubes of cheese. This presentation is not only appetizing but also makes for an attractive display.
- **Alongside a Main Course:** Don’t limit Little Smokies to just appetizers! They make a fantastic side dish for casual meals. Serve them next to creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple green salad for a comforting and complete meal.
- **Part of a Charcuterie or Appetizer Board:** Arrange your warm Little Smokies in a small bowl as part of a larger charcuterie or appetizer spread. Surround them with crackers, various cheeses, fresh fruit, nuts, and other savory snacks for an abundant and inviting display.
How to Keep Slow Cooker Little Smokies Warm for Parties
One of the greatest advantages of making Slow Cooker Little Smokies is how effortlessly your Crockpot transitions from cooking device to serving vessel, keeping your delicious appetizer perfectly warm throughout your event. This ensures your guests enjoy them at their best, from the first bite to the last.
Once your Little Smokies have finished cooking and the sauce has thickened to your liking, simply set your slow cooker to the “warm” setting. Most modern slow cookers have this function, designed to hold food at a safe serving temperature without continuing to cook or dry it out. This allows the flavors to continue to meld and deepen slightly while preventing them from becoming overcooked or developing a crust.
For best results and to prevent any sticking, especially if your slow cooker isn’t non-stick or if you anticipate them sitting for an extended period, remember to give the Little Smokies a gentle stir occasionally. This also helps to redistribute the sauce, ensuring every sausage remains perfectly coated and glistening. The “warm” setting can typically keep your cocktail sausages at an ideal serving temperature for several hours, making them an ideal, stress-free party food.
Alternative: Stovetop Method
If you don’t have a slow cooker or are short on time and need your Little Smokies ready faster, the stovetop method is a fantastic alternative that delivers equally delicious results. This quick cooking technique ensures a warm, saucy appetizer in a fraction of the time.
- **Combine Ingredients in a Skillet:** Add all the cocktail sausages, BBQ sauce, brown sugar or sweetener, and spices to a large skillet or pot. Place it over medium heat on your stovetop.
- **Stir and Heat:** Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring the sausages are well coated. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- **Simmer to Thicken:** Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Continue to stir occasionally. The goal is to heat the sausages through and allow the sauce to thicken to a desirable, glossy consistency. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your stove and pot, so keep an eye on it.
Once the sauce has thickened and the Little Smokies are hot, they’re ready to serve! This method is perfect for impromptu gatherings or when you’re craving this savory treat without the long wait.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These Slow Cooker Little Smokies are an excellent dish to prepare in advance, making your event day much smoother. Proper storage ensures they remain fresh and delicious for future enjoyment.
You can cook a batch of these cocktail sausages ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Once cooled, transfer the Little Smokies and their sauce to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prepping a delicious snack or ensuring you have an appetizer ready for unexpected guests.
How to Reheat Cocktail Sausages
Reheating your Slow Cooker Little Smokies is simple, ensuring they taste just as good as when they were freshly made. You have a couple of convenient options:
- **In the Slow Cooker:** This is perhaps the easiest method, especially if you’re reheating for a party. Simply transfer the cooled Little Smokies and their sauce back into your slow cooker. Set it to the “warm” setting and allow them to heat through, stirring occasionally, until they are hot and bubbly. This method is gentle and prevents them from drying out.
- **On the Stovetop:** For a quicker reheat, place the Little Smokies and sauce in a saucepan or skillet over low to medium-low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Heat until the sausages are thoroughly warmed, and the sauce is simmering gently. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the sauce to burn.
Freezer-Friendly Tips
Yes, Slow Cooker Little Smokies are wonderfully freezer-friendly, making them an ideal option for batch cooking or having a last-minute appetizer ready to go. You can freeze cooked Little Smokies for up to 2-3 months without a significant loss in quality or flavor.
To freeze, first allow the cooked cocktail sausages and their sauce to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply defrost the frozen Little Smokies in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them using either the slow cooker or stovetop method described above until they are piping hot. This freezer-friendly aspect makes planning for future events incredibly convenient!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making Slow Cooker Little Smokies:
- Can I use different types of sausages? Yes! While “Little Smokies” are traditional, you can certainly experiment with other mini sausages like chicken sausages, turkey sausages, or even small Italian sausages (though these might need to be pre-cooked and cut to size).
- Do I need to brown the sausages first? No, Little Smokies are pre-cooked, so there’s no need to brown them before adding them to the slow cooker. They will heat through and absorb the sauce flavors as they simmer.
- Can I make this recipe spicier? Absolutely! To add more heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco or sriracha) to the sauce mixture, or even use a spicier BBQ sauce.
- What if the sauce is too thin/thick? If your sauce is too thin after cooking, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to an hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the hot sauce and cook for another 15-30 minutes until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of water, apple juice, or even a little more BBQ sauce until you reach your desired consistency.
- Can I use sugar alternatives? Yes, if you prefer to reduce the sugar content, you can use a brown sugar substitute that is designed for baking and measures cup-for-cup. Adjust to your taste.
More Appetizer and BBQ Recipes
If you loved these Slow Cooker Little Smokies, be sure to explore these other delicious appetizer and BBQ recipes:
Kings Hawaiian Sliders
Hot Baked Crab Dip with Cream Cheese
Traeger Smoked Queso
Air Fryer Crab Rangoon
Lump Crab Salad with Real Crab Meat
Slow Cooker Crockpot Brisket
Slow Cooker Crockpot Pulled Chicken
Slow Cooker Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce
Brandi Crawford
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Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 28 oz Little Smokies packaged sausage I used 2 14oz packs.
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar Dark or light brown sugar will work. Adjust to suit your taste.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a slow cooker or Crockpot (mine is 7quart) and stir.
- Cover the pot with the lid. Slow cook for 2-3 hours on Low or 1 hour on High until warm and the sauce has thickened.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.