Slow-cooked smokies are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for parties, game day, or casual gatherings. These little sausages are cooked in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce with a hint of spice, making them irresistibly flavorful. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe incredibly easy and convenient, allowing you to prep the ingredients in minutes and let them cook to perfection while you attend to other things. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these slow-cooked smokies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast from the serving platter!
Ingredients:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) cocktail sausages (Lil’ Smokies)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup grape jelly
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, grape jelly, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the cocktail sausages in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the sausages, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, and the sausages will become heated through and infused with the sweet and tangy flavors.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting to keep the smokies hot while serving. Use toothpicks to serve the smokies directly from the slow cooker or transfer them to a serving dish.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the slow-cooked smokies as a tasty appetizer at parties or gatherings. They pair well with other finger foods and snacks and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
These slow-cooked smokies are an effortless and delicious appetizer that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of sweet grape jelly and tangy barbecue sauce, along with the subtle kick from mustard and spices, makes them an addictive treat that’s always a crowd favorite.
