Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe

If you’re a fan of easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers, you’re going to absolutely love this Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or just an easy snack that comes together with minimal effort but maximum flavor. The smoky, sweet, and tangy sauce clings perfectly to those little sausages, making them irresistible bite after bite. Stick around and I’ll share all my tips for nailing this recipe every single time!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe plays a vital role. They blend to create a sauce that’s sweet, smoky, and tangy, perfectly complementing the savory sausages. Always look for good-quality Little Smokies and fresh brown sugar for the best results.

• Tomato ketchup: Provides the tangy base for the sauce and lends moisture and sweetness.
• Liquid smoke: Adds that authentic smoky flavor you want without needing a grill or smoker.
• Brown sugar: Balances out the tang and smoke with rich sweetness; dark brown sugar works great.
• Onion (minced): Adds subtle texture and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Little Smokies: The star of the show—small, flavorful sausages that soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Green onions (optional): Bright and fresh garnish that cuts through the richness with a little crunch.

Tweak to Your Taste

This Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe is incredibly versatile, and I’ve found it fun to make it your own depending on what you like or have on hand. Don’t hesitate to experiment a bit—you might discover your own signature twist!

• Spicy Kick: I like to add a teaspoon of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce to give it a bit more heat when we’re having friends over who like things spicy.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap out the liquid smoke for soy sauce and add a teaspoon of grated ginger for a totally different but delicious flavor vibe.
• Sweet & Tangy: Sometimes I stir in a little apple cider vinegar or mustard to brighten up the sauce.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetarian sausages and try adding smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Sauce

Start by combining your ketchup, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and minced onion right in the crockpot. Stir them together until the sugar dissolves a bit and it all comes together into a rich, thick sauce. This step ensures the base flavors are well blended before adding the sausages.

Step 2: Add the Little Smokies and Coat

Next, dump in both packages of Little Smokies and stir well to make sure each little sausage is coated in that luscious BBQ sauce. This is where they soak up all the smoky, sweet flavor during cooking. If it looks like there isn’t enough sauce, gently scrape the sides and bottom—sometimes a little extra clinging sauce is hiding there.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and cook on HIGH for about 2 hours or on LOW for 3 hours. I usually do low because I love leaving it to slow-cook while I’m out running errands or prepping other dishes. The key is not to overcook them, or the sauce can become too thick or burn slightly on the edges.

Step 4: Serve Warm and Garnished

Once the cooking time is up, switch your crockpot to warm and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh burst of color and bite. If serving immediately, I sometimes transfer them to a nice bowl or platter so guests can grab with toothpicks easily.

How to Serve Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe

Garnishes

I always go for chopped green onions as a simple garnish. They add a fresh, crisp bite that contrasts the rich, smoky sauce beautifully. Sometimes, if I’m feeling extra festive, I’ll add a dash of sesame seeds or a few chopped fresh parsley leaves for color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with crunchy veggies like celery or carrot sticks, classic potato chips, or even mac and cheese if you want to turn it into a real meal. I’ve also served these alongside a fresh coleslaw for a bit of tang and crunch that cuts through the sweet sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to serve these in mini bread bowls or hollowed-out baguette slices, making them extra fun and easy to eat. You can also skewer a few on toothpicks and arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces on the side for a professional, crowd-pleasing snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually let them cool down to room temp, then pop them straight into the fridge. The sauce thickens as it cools but loosens right back up when reheated.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these once or twice when making them ahead for big gatherings. Just let them cool, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or crockpot low setting.

Reheating

Reheating is best done on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to warm evenly. You can also use the crockpot on a warm or low setting, especially if you’re serving a crowd—just keep an eye so it doesn’t overcook.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot BBQ Little Smokies Recipe has been my go-to for gatherings and casual nights in because it’s so easy to make and everyone ends up going back for more. It reminds me of those cozy evenings when friends just drop by, and I want to serve something warm, comforting, and fuss-free. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients come together into something truly special. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be on your recipe rotation for good!

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