Need an easy appetizer? This crockpot little smokies recipe is sure to be the hit of the buffet table. The slow cooker does all the work!

Living in the Midwest, every party has a crockpot or two keeping snacks warm.

One of our very favorites is mini sausages coated in a tangy, spicy, sweet sauce. One bite and you’ll understand why they’re hard to resist!

They’re crazy easy to make, too. All you need to do is dump all the ingredients in a slow cooker, give it a stir, and turn it on.

There’s no chopping, no stove time, and practically no cleanup. I’m telling you, it’s hard to beat that combination in a recipe. They’re the perfect appetizer.

Make these crockpot lil smokies for your next party and watch them disappear!

Ingredients for little smokies recipe

Cocktail weenies – Look for mini sausages that are about 1 inch in length. Some brands label these as little smokies or lil smokies. For this recipe, you’ll need 2 packages.

If you can’t find mini sausages, you can use regular smoked sausage cut into chunks.

Barbecue sauce – Grab your favorite dipping or basting barbecue sauce! I like a hickory smoked sauce, but you can use sweeter or spicier sauces. Stubb’s is a good brand with many options.

You can also use chili sauce, if you like. Note that this is a tomato-based product you’ll find near the ketchup. It is not sriracha or other Asian chili sauces.

Brown sugar – To add sweetness, this little smokies recipe uses brown sugar. You can swap in grape jelly if you prefer. I like to use what I have on hand, so choose what works for you.

Worcestershire sauce – For an extra flavor boost, Worcestershire sauce is added. I find it really adds something special to any savory recipe.

Garlic powder and cayenne – If your barbecue sauce is already spicy or you want to refrain from heat, you might want to omit these spices. I personally love sweet-spicy flavors!

How to make little smokies in the crockpot

This recipe is perfect for using a mini crockpot. I resisted having one for so long, but when it comes to parties, the mini size can handle so much!

To make these tangy sausages, first drain the cocktail sausages of the excess liquid they are packed with.

Then, add all of the ingredients to the crockpot. Stir it well to mix everything.

Turn the crockpot on low. If you need the lil smokies ready faster, you can turn it to high, but make sure to keep an eye on it and stir often to prevent any burning.

On low, let it warm for about 2 hours before serving. You can leave the crockpot set to low during serving to keep them warm.

If you’re using a larger crockpot, it might have a buffet setting. This setting is perfect for keeping the dish warm on the table without cooking further.

Serve directly out of the crockpot, or transfer the smokies to a serving dish.

hand spearing cocktail sausage with toothpick

Storage tips

If you have any leftovers, little smokies can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

Reheat the sausages in the crockpot or simmer on the stove.

You can also use the sausages to make pigs in a blanket, chop them and add to macaroni and cheese, or add to a casserole.

Little smokies are such a crowd pleaser. Add them to your tailgate spread!