When it comes to game day snacks or a finger-food feast, few things can match the appeal of Slow Cooker Little Smokies. These bite-sized wonders, simmered in a tangy and sweet sauce, are beloved by many for their unbeatable flavor and simple preparation. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, a birthday party, or just want something fun for dinner, this recipe will become your go-to snack.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Little Smokies Recipe
The charm of Slow Cooker Little Smokies lies not only in their taste but in their effortless preparation. You don’t need to be an expert chef to whip these up. Just gather a few ingredients, mix them in a slow cooker, and let it work its magic. The mixture of tangy BBQ sauce and sweetness from brown sugar creates a mouthwatering flavor that perfectly complements the smokiness of the little weenies. They have a fun, bite-sized shape that makes them easy to eat. Plus, they’re ideal for sharing, making them a hit at any social gathering.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Little Smokies
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package of little smokies (cocktail weenies)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Optional: additional spices (like garlic powder or onion powder) to elevate the flavor
Gather these ingredients, and you’re already on your way to a delicious treat.
How to Make Slow Cooker Little Smokies Directions
Making Slow Cooker Little Smokies is incredibly simple. Follow these steps to whip up this tasty recipe:
- Prepare the Sauce: Begin by taking your slow cooker and pouring 1 cup of BBQ sauce into it. Add in the 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Make sure to mix these two together until they are well combined. This will be the sweet and tangy base that elevates our little smokies to a whole new level.
- Add the Little Smokies: Once your sauce is ready, take the package of little smokies and add them to the slow cooker. Make sure to stir gently so the little smokies are coated well with the sauce. You want each piece to soak up that amazing flavor.
- Cooking Time: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. This step is crucial as it helps to trap the heat and moisture, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can choose to cook them on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 1 to 2 hours. Either way, you’ll want to cook until they’re heated through and flavorful.
- Stir Occasionally: If you’re around, it’s a good idea to stir the ingredients occasionally. This ensures even cooking and allows all the little smokies to absorb the sauce.
- Taste Test: As you near the end of cooking time, feel free to do a taste test! If you feel like adding some optional spices like garlic or onion powder, now is the perfect time to sprinkle a little in.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once they are heated through and the flavors are perfect, they’re ready to be served. Spoon them out into a serving dish or keep them in the slow cooker if you’re hosting a party.
As you serve these delicious bites, watch as they disappear within moments. Their irresistible taste will leave everyone wanting more.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Little Smokies
Serving Slow Cooker Little Smokies is just as easy as making them. Here are a few ideas to make your presentation a hit:
- Dipping Sauces: While the little smokies are delectable on their own, consider setting out additional dipping sauces. A side of ranch or extra BBQ sauce will be appreciated by many.
- Party Platters: For a casual gathering, you can serve them directly from the slow cooker. Just provide plenty of toothpicks for easy serving.
- Garnish: Consider garnishing your little smokies with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also a touch of freshness to the dish.
- Accompanying Dishes: Pair your little smokies with other finger foods like vegetable platters, chips, and guacamole to create a diverse snack station.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these little smokies are sure to impress your guests.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Little Smokies
Creating the perfect batch of Slow Cooker Little Smokies can be enhanced by incorporating these expert tips:
- Choosing Your Sausages: While traditional cocktail weenies are standard, consider using turkey or chicken lil’ smokies for a lighter option.
- Experiment with Sauces: Don’t be afraid to mix up your BBQ sauces. Try different varieties like honey BBQ or spicy BBQ for a change in flavor.
- Add Heat: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños into the slow cooker for those who prefer a spicier option.
- Plan Ahead: If you’re hosting an event, make the little smokies ahead of time. They can easily be made a day in advance and reheated just before serving.
- Don’t Skip the Stirring: Occasionally stirring the little smokies in the slow cooker helps to avoid sticking and gives you a chance to redistribute the sauce.
Incorporating these expert suggestions will elevate your dish and impress your guests even more.
How to Store Slow Cooker Little Smokies
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but can happen), storing them correctly is key to preserving their flavor:
- Cool Down: Allow the little smokies to cool down to room temperature before storing them.
- Airtight Container: Place the leftovers in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: To reheat, consider popping them back into the slow cooker on low, or you can use a microwave. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your delicious little smokies for a few days more.
Variations of Slow Cooker Little Smokies
The great thing about Slow Cooker Little Smokies is their versatility. Here are some variations to consider:
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix a bit of honey or maple syrup with your BBQ sauce for a sweet twist. Add red pepper flakes for a delightful kick.
- Asian-Inspired: Substitute your BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce. Add in a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an Asian flair.
- Cheesy Variation: After cooking, add shredded cheese on top of the little smokies and then cover until the cheese melts. This creates a gooey, cheesy delight that will have everyone reaching for more.
- Buffalo Style: Replace the BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy version. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a true buffalo wing experience.
- Maple Glazed: Use maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a bit of apple cider vinegar instead of BBQ sauce. This variation brings a delightful sweetness and a unique flavor profile to your little smokies.
Each of these variations keeps the spirit of the original dish while adding your own unique touches.
FAQ
What are Slow Cooker Little Smokies?
Slow Cooker Little Smokies are bite-sized sausages cooked in a slow cooker with BBQ sauce and brown sugar, creating a sweet and savory snack perfect for parties or gatherings.
How long can I keep leftovers?
You can keep leftover Slow Cooker Little Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I make Slow Cooker Little Smokies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Little Smokies?
These little smokies pair well with dips, veggie platters, and other finger foods. Adding a range of sauces also enhances the experience for your guests.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes! You can modify the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preference or mix in other ingredients to create a different flavor dimension.
Slow Cooker Little Smokies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package little smokies (cocktail weenies)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Optional: adjust to taste
- Optional additional spices (like garlic powder or onion powder) To elevate the flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce into the slow cooker.
- Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar and mix until well combined.
Cooking
- Add the package of little smokies to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or high for 1 to 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Serving
- Once heated through, serve in a dish or keep in the slow cooker for serving.
- Consider providing dipping sauces like ranch or extra BBQ sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
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