You’re About to Make the Easiest Party Hit Ever
Imagine this: You walk into a party, crock pot in hand, and within minutes, everyone’s hovering around it like moths to a flame. No fancy skills, no babysitting the stove—just you, a slow cooker, and a pack of lil’ smokies. These tiny sausages are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and the crock pot does all the work.
Want to be the hero of game day, potlucks, or even your couch? This recipe is your cheat code. Let’s get to it.
Why This Recipe Slaps
Lil’ smokies in a crock pot are the culinary equivalent of a mic drop.
They’re stupidly easy, endlessly customizable, and disappear faster than your motivation to meal prep. The slow cooker melds the flavors into a sweet, smoky, tangy bite that’s impossible to resist. Plus, you can double the batch and still have zero leftovers.
Try it once, and you’ll see why this is a staple at every gathering worth attending.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package (14 oz) lil’ smokies (beef or pork—your call)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade, no judgment)
- 1/2 cup grape jelly (yes, really—trust the process)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for that umami kick)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Dump everything in the crock pot. Lil’ smokies, BBQ sauce, jelly, Worcestershire, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir like you mean it.
- Cook on low for 2–3 hours or high for 1–2 hours. You’re waiting for the smokies to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally if you’re feeling fancy.
- Serve straight from the crock pot. Toothpicks optional but highly encouraged.
Watch them vanish.
How to Store Leftovers (If They Exist)
Transfer any surviving smokies to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or crock pot. For freezing, stash them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Pro tip: Make extra—they’re even better the next day.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
It’s minimal effort for maximum payoff. You get a hot, flavorful appetizer without babysitting the stove.
The combo of BBQ and grape jelly creates a sticky-sweet glaze that’s addictively good. Plus, it scales effortlessly for crowds. IMO, this is the ultimate “fake it till you make it” dish—everyone will assume you slaved over it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking. Lil’ smokies are already cooked—you’re just heating and saucing them.
Any longer than 3 hours on low, and they’ll turn to rubber.
- Skimping on sauce. The smokies should swim in it. Nobody likes a dry bite.
- Using fancy jelly. Grape jelly is the OG. Skip the artisanal stuff—it’s not worth the extra $8.
Swaps and Tweaks
No grape jelly?
Use apricot preserves or cranberry sauce. Prefer spice? Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
For a tangier twist, swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce or teriyaki. Vegetarian? Try plant-based smokies—just adjust cooking time.
The recipe’s a canvas; go wild.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep the sauce and smokies in the crock pot insert the night before. Store it in the fridge, then pop it in the cooker and heat when ready.
FYI, the flavors get even better after sitting.
What if I don’t have a crock pot?
Simmer everything in a saucepan on the stove over low heat for 20–30 minutes. Stir often to avoid scorching. It’s not as hands-off, but it works in a pinch.
Can I use full-sized sausages?
Sure, but slice them into bite-sized pieces first.
Cooking time might vary, so check for doneness. Lil’ smokies are ideal because they’re already party-ready.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is the culinary equivalent of hitting the easy button. It’s cheap, foolproof, and guaranteed to make you the MVP of any gathering.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself (no shame), lil’ smokies in the crock pot are the ultimate no-brainer. Now go forth and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
