Easy Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Lil Smokies: A Party Appetizer Everyone Loves

Sweet and Tangy Honey BBQ Lil Smokies

These lil smokies are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Mini smoked sausages slowly simmered in a mouthwatering honey barbecue sauce create an irresistible party snack that disappears in minutes!

Why You’ll Love These Honey BBQ Lil Smokies

• Effortless preparation – Just 5 minutes of prep time!
• Set it and forget it – Your slow cooker does all the work
• Budget-friendly – Feeds a crowd without breaking the bank
• Versatile – Perfect for any gathering from tailgates to holiday parties
• Customizable – Easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste preferences

The Perfect Party Appetizer Ingredients

• 2 (14 oz) packages mini smoked sausages (lil smokies)
• 1 (12 oz) bottle barbecue sauce (sweet and smoky works best)
• 1 (10 oz) jar grape jelly
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

How to Make Slow Cooker Lil Smokies – Step by Step

1. Gather all your ingredients and plug in your slow cooker.
2. Add barbecue sauce, grape jelly, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker.
3. Stir the sauce ingredients until well combined.
4. Open and drain the packages of lil smokies, then add them to the slow cooker.
5. Gently stir to coat all the sausages with the sauce mixture.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 2-3 hours or on HIGH for 1-2 hours, until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even coating of the sauce.
8. Switch to the WARM setting to keep the lil smokies hot during serving time.

Expert Tips for Perfect Lil Smokies

• Sauce consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and stir well.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pour it into the slow cooker with the sausages.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Flavor variations: Try different barbecue sauce flavors like honey chipotle or bourbon for unique taste profiles.

Serving Suggestions for Your Lil Smokies

These delicious little sausages are versatile and pair well with many other appetizers. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing
• Place alongside a cheese and cracker platter
• Offer small slider buns to create mini sausage sandwiches
• Pair with vegetable sticks and dip for a balanced appetizer spread
• Serve with pretzel sticks for a sweet and salty combination

Common Questions About Lil Smokies

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can simmer the lil smokies in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, these freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for grape jelly?

Apple jelly, apricot preserves, or cranberry sauce all work wonderfully as alternatives.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?

Certainly! Try adding diced pineapple, minced jalapeños, or a splash of bourbon for different flavor variations.

The Perfect Party Pleaser: Lil Smokies for Every Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, holiday party, or family potluck, these honey BBQ lil smokies are guaranteed to disappear quickly! With their irresistible combination of savory mini sausages and sweet-tangy sauce, they’ve earned their reputation as a crowd favorite. The best part? You’ll spend minimal time in the kitchen while your slow cooker works its magic. Make these lil smokies your go-to appetizer and watch them become the most requested dish at every gathering!

Recipe adapted from: Allrecipes