Oh, friends, there’s just something so wonderfully comforting about a dish that promises smiles and easy enjoyment, isn’t there? Today, I’m absolutely delighted to share a recipe for these incredible slow cooker little smokies that whisk me right back to festive family gatherings. Imagine bite-sized sausages, coated in a homemade sauce that’s the perfect dance of sweet and tangy, simmering away to perfection. It’s a truly magical appetizer that reminds us that some of the best flavors come from the simplest preparations.
My grandmother, bless her heart, always said the best food was made with love and a little bit of patience. I remember her bustling in the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, teaching me that every dish, no matter how humble, had a story. This particular recipe for little smokies in the slow cooker evokes those same feelings of warmth and shared joy, making any occasion feel a little more special.
This recipe for slow cooker little smokies is a true gem – incredibly easy to prepare, making it absolutely perfect for entertaining without the stress. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any family gathering or game day, letting you enjoy the company of your loved ones while your slow cooker does all the hard work. My little secret? A splash of good quality Worcestershire sauce really deepens the flavor profile!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting these delightful appetizers begins with a few pantry staples that truly sing together. You’ll be leaning on the savory goodness of little smokies sausages, brought to life with a vibrant BBQ sauce, a touch of brown sugar for sweetness, and a hint of apple cider vinegar for that irresistible tang. It’s a combination I adore, ensuring every bite of these slow cooker little smokies is perfectly balanced. For the full list of ingredients and precise measurements, simply check out the recipe card below!
How to Make slow cooker little smokies
Making these slow cooker little smokies is an absolute breeze, freeing you up to enjoy your guests or simply relax! You’ll start by whisking together our fantastic sweet and tangy sauce. Then, it’s just a matter of combining those adorable little smokies sausages with the sauce directly in your slow cooker. Let it simmer gently for a few hours, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld and deepen. What emerges is a truly irresistible appetizer that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Tangy BBQ Slow Cooker Little Smokies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined. If using, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Drain any liquid from the little smokies packages. Add the little smokies to the mixing bowl with the sauce. Stir gently to ensure all the sausages are thoroughly coated.
- Pour the coated little smokies and sauce mixture into your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours, or on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally (every hour or so) to ensure even heating and coating. The sausages should be heated through and the sauce should be bubbly and thickened slightly.
- Once cooked, switch the slow cooker to the “WARM” setting if serving directly from it. Serve hot with toothpicks.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This slow cooker little smokies
I’ve learned a few tricks over my years in the kitchen, and I’m always happy to share them to ensure your slow cooker little smokies turn out perfectly every time.
- My Secret Trick: I always give the sauce a little taste test before adding the smokies. If it needs a touch more tang, a tiny bit more apple cider vinegar does wonders. If you like it sweeter, a pinch more brown sugar can be added!
- To prevent the little smokies from sticking, especially if you’re cooking them for an extended period, give the slow cooker a gentle shake or stir every hour or so. This ensures every sausage is perfectly coated and simmering beautifully in that luscious sauce.
- For an even deeper, richer flavor, allow the sauce to simmer on its own for about 30 minutes before adding the little smokies. This gives the spices a chance to bloom and intensify, creating an even more irresistible base for your slow cooker little smokies.
- Don’t be tempted to add extra liquid! The little smokies will release some of their own juices as they cook, and you want that perfectly thick, clinging sauce.
Fun Variations for slow cooker little smokies
One of the joys of cooking at home is making a recipe truly your own! These slow cooker little smokies are wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different flavors to suit every taste.
Spicy Kick
For those who adore a bit of heat, just like my brother-in-law, a little extra cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can transform these into fiery little bites. You could even add a finely diced jalapeño to the sauce for a fresh, vibrant heat!
Fruity Twist
Consider adding a spoonful of apricot or peach preserves to your BBQ sauce mixture. This adds a beautiful, complex sweetness and a lovely sticky glaze that complements the smokies perfectly. My friend Emily always asks me to do this!
### Southern Charm
For a taste of the South, try incorporating a tablespoon of bourbon or a splash of liquid smoke into your sauce. This adds a wonderful depth and a smoky aroma that truly elevates these slow cooker little smokies to another level.
What to Serve With slow cooker little smokies
These delightful slow cooker little smokies are truly the life of any party, but they shine even brighter with the right companions! When I’m serving them, I love to think about what will complement their sweet and tangy profile without overshadowing them.
- Crusty Bread or Crackers: A simple basket of crusty baguette slices or your favorite crackers is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good dipping opportunity?
- Fresh Vegetable Platter: To balance the richness of the smokies, I often set out a vibrant platter of crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. It adds a lovely fresh crunch and a healthy contrast.
- Cheese Cubes: A small bowl of cheddar or pepper jack cheese cubes makes for an easy and delicious pairing. The mildness of the cheese is a wonderful counterpoint to the bold flavors of the slow cooker little smokies.
- Cream Cheese & Jelly: For a really fun and unexpected twist, my mom always served them alongside a block of cream cheese topped with a dollop of pepper jelly. Guests can spread a little of both on a cracker – a truly delightful flavor explosion!
How to Store slow cooker little smokies
Ensuring your delicious slow cooker little smokies stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible is just as important as making them! I always want to make sure none of that homemade goodness goes to waste.
Fridge Storage
Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover slow cooker little smokies and their sauce into an airtight container. They will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for enjoying as quick snacks or even a simple weeknight meal!
### Reheating Tips
To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. I like to add a tiny splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if the sauce seems a little thick after refrigeration, just to bring it back to that perfect consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
While we often focus on the joy and flavor of homemade treats, it’s lovely to remember that even something as indulgent as slow cooker little smokies can offer a little something extra. These savory bites provide a good source of protein, making them a satisfying appetizer that fuels your fun. It’s all about balancing those delightful flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients to create a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing in its own wonderful way.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make these slow cooker little smokies ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These are a fantastic make-ahead appetizer. Prepare them fully, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop an hour before serving for best results and perfect party readiness!
Faq 2
What kind of BBQ sauce works best for this slow cooker little smokies recipe?
I always recommend using your favorite kind! Whether it’s a smoky, sweet, or slightly spicy variety, the key is to choose a good quality BBQ sauce you love. It truly forms the heart of the tangy flavor.
Faq 3
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of little smokies?
Yes, you certainly can! Cocktail meatballs or even slices of fully cooked kielbasa can work wonderfully as substitutes. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces so they’re easy to enjoy as an appetizer.
Faq 4
How do I keep these slow cooker little smokies warm for a longer gathering?
After they’re fully cooked, simply switch your slow cooker to the “warm” setting. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is my go-to method for keeping them perfectly warm and inviting throughout any event!
Conclusion
There you have it, friends – a recipe for slow cooker little smokies that’s more than just an appetizer; it’s an invitation to create warmth, share laughter, and make those beautiful, everyday memories. These sweet and tangy bites are a testament to how simple ingredients, made with a little love and a trusty slow cooker, can bring so much joy. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to delight your loved ones with a taste of homemade comfort. Happy baking (and slow cooking!), sweet friends!