Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies

Name: Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 245 min
Ingredients: 14 oz package miniature smoked sausages; 1 ½ cup BBQ sauce (used Baby Ray’s); 1 ½ cup grape jelly; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Let’s make a straightforward and delicious recipe: Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies This dish is perfect for when you have friends over for game day or just want something delicious and easy to make.

Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies on a plate with toothpicks

It serves ten people and only takes 5 minutes to prepare. The cooking is all done in a crockpot over 4 hours, which slowly mixes the flavors together to make a meal that’s both easy to make and full of taste.

Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies in a slow cooker

In this recipe, small smoked sausages are covered in a rich sauce that mixes classic BBQ taste with a sweet twist from grape jelly, and a little extra sweetness from brown sugar. There’s a bit of heat from chili garlic sauce, and a depth of flavor from Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. You are going to love this easy appetizer recipe , with simple ingredients that come together to make the ultimate crowd pleaser

Slow Cooker Spicy Sweet BBQ Lil Smokies on a plater

Recipe Notes:

Stir Occasionally:Gently stir the mixture a few times during cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.

Taste and Adjust:Taste the sauce midway through cooking and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Serving Suggestions: This crockpot little smokies recipe is great as and appetizer with toothpicks or can be served with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Pre-Cooking Preparation:For an even easier preparation, combine all the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate. Start cooking the next day as per the instructions.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, feel free to experiment with various types of little sausages based on your preference. However, the cooking time may vary.

Can I make this dish spicier or less spicy?

Absolutely, adjust the chili garlic sauce quantity to suit your taste. You could also add in some red pepper flakes for extra spice.

What are some serving suggestions?

These Lil Smokies can be a great appetizer on toothpicks or served alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a fuller meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

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Can I substitute the grape jelly with another type of jelly or jam?

Yes, you can use different jellies or jams like apple or raspberry for a unique twist in flavor.

Can I cook this on high instead of low heat in the crockpot?

Yes, you can cook on high for 1-2 hours, but low and slow cooking is recommended for better flavor infusion.

Miniature smoked sausages: These cocktail weenies are the heart of the dish, offering a savory and smoky flavor.
BBQ sauce (Baby Ray’s): This sauce provides a robust, tangy base, pivotal for the BBQ character of the dish. Any of your favorite tangy bbq sauces will work.
Grape jelly: An unconventional addition that introduces a subtle sweetness, balancing the tanginess of the BBQ sauce.
Brown sugar: Enhances the depth of the sauce with its molasses-like sweetness.
Chili sauce: Adds a kick of heat and garlic flavor, creating a beautiful contrast with the sweet elements.
Worcestershire sauce: Its unique umami quality adds complexity to the overall taste profile.
Garlic powder: Offers a mild, earthy garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic.