Little Smokies Recipe

Crockpot Little Smokies are always a hit! This classic recipe features mini sausage links simmering in a savory BBQ sauce that bursts with flavor. Whether you're serving them at your next game day party or need a satisfying snack, this cocktail weenies recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

Little smokies are mini sausage links that have become a popular appetizer. They earn their name by cooking them in a smoker, imparting a distinctive flavor. Typically crafted from pork or beef, these sausages are around two inches long. You can find them in any grocery store and make them in many different ways!

This recipe mixes mini smoked sausages and barbecue sauce for a sweet, smoky, and salty flavor. Add everything to the crock pot and let it do its magic!

In just a few hours, you'll have a delicious appetizer that's perfect for game day or any party. Serve them alongside some toothpicks, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• You can make the entire recipe with just seven ingredients; chances are you already have most of them!
• It's an easy way to feed a crowd an appetizer that takes little effort to make.
• You can adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• They're ready to go in just 3 hours or less!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Little Smokies - You can find these mini cocktail sausages near the hot dogs in the cold section of your grocery store.
• BBQ Sauce - Use homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce to add a smoky flavor with a sweet twang.
• Brown Sugar - Helps thicken up the sauce and adds a rich, sweet flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce - Gives the base of the sauce a salty umami flavor that pairs well with the sweet flavors.
• Seasonings - A mix of dried garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances all the flavors in the dish.

How To Make Little Smokies in a Crock Pot

Add the sausages: Remove the smokies from their packages and place them at the bottom of your crock pot.

Assemble the sauce: Add all of the sauce ingredients, including the brown sugar and spices, to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Whisk the sauce together until fully combined.

Pour on top: Pour the sauce on top of the cocktail weenies into the crock pot and stir until well-coated.

Cover and cook: Add the lid to the top and cook for 2-3 hours on LOW or until the sausages and sauce are warm. Serve with toothpicks on the side. Enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Whisk the sauce ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
• For a thicker sauce, blend ¼ cup of cornstarch with equal cold water and stir it into the crock pot 30 minutes before serving.
• Cook the sausages on HIGH for about an hour and a half.

Variations

• If you can't find little smokies, try using full-sized hot dogs or sausages cut into 2-inch pieces.
• Smokies come in a variety of flavors, including beef, pork, turkey, and even vegetarian.
• For a spicier little smokies recipe, add a teaspoon or two of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Substitutions

• BBQ sauce - Ketchup or chili sauce can be used as a substitute.
• Worcestershire sauce - Soy sauce, tamari, or Coconut aminos can be used as substitutes.
• Brown sugar - Maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar can be used as substitutes.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: If you have leftover cocktail weenies, once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing: To freeze, place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.