Little Smokies in BBQ sauce are a classic 3-ingredient slow cooker appetizer you’ll see at potlucks, holiday parties, and game day gatherings. Made with Little Smokies sausages, BBQ sauce, and chili sauce, this traditional version is savory, slightly sweet, and completely hands-off once it’s in the crockpot.
If you like easy party appetizers, try these Pigs in a Blanket, or Easy Meatballs in Sauce. And if you’re craving the sweet version of this recipe, be sure to check out my Little Smokies with Grape Jelly and Chili Sauce.
Table of contents
Why I Love This Recipe
This is a true 3-ingredient slow cooker appetizer that works for just about any gathering.
The combination of BBQ sauce and chili sauce is the traditional savory version most people grew up with. It has more depth than BBQ sauce alone and balances sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.
Because everything cooks in the slow cooker, it’s hands-off once it’s started and stays warm for hours without drying out.
It’s one of those recipes people don’t even need to ask about - they see it, grab a toothpick, and keep coming back.
Ingredients
Yes, just 3 ingredients for these retro appetizers!
2 packages Little Smokies smoked sausages (about 28 oz total)
1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
1 cup chili sauce (like Heinz - tangy, not spicy)
Flavor Tip
If your BBQ sauce is very sweet, the chili sauce helps balance it. If your BBQ sauce is more smoky or bold, this 1:1 ratio keeps the sauce from tasting flat.
If your kids don't like any spicy flavor, just double the BBQ sauce.
Instructions
Step 1
Add the Little Smokies to your slow cooker.
Step 2
Pour the BBQ sauce and chili sauce over the sausages. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring once or twice if possible.
Looking for super easy delicious recipes? Sign up and I'll send them!
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Tips & FAQs
Yes. Add everything to a large skillet or saucepan and simmer on low for about 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until heated through and glossy.
Definitely. Combine everything in the slow cooker insert or a bowl, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.
Yes. Just use a larger slow cooker and stir occasionally so everything stays evenly coated.
Storage
- Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- These freeze well. Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the slow cooker on low.
- My family loves the leftovers served on rice as a meal!
Delicious Saucy Appetizers
Here is a Game Day Appetizers and Snacks Collection!
Printable Recipe
Little Smokies in Barbeque Sauce
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 Packages Lil Smokies Smoked Sausages about 28 oz total
- 1 Cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 Cup Heinz Chili Sauce or use the whole bottle.
- Toothpicks are great to have available.
Instructions
- Add the Little Smokies to your slow cooker.
- Pour the BBQ and chili sauce mixtures over the sausages. Stir until everything is coated evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Once heated through, turn the slow cooker to warm so they stay perfectly saucy for serving.
Notes
- You can easily adjust the sauce flavor. Add a little more barbecue if you like it less spicy, or extra chili sauce for more tang and spice.
- These crock pot Little Smokies stay warm for hours - just keep your slow cooker on the warm setting during your party or game day spread.
- To make ahead, combine everything in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day.
- Refrigerator: Can be put in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Let the barbeque chili sauce smokies cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low in your slow cooker or stovetop until warmed through.
- Leftovers are great the next day -try serving them over rice or mashed potatoes for an easy quick meal.
- This recipe makes about 8-12 servings, depending on how many appetizers you’re offering.
Nutrition (estimate)
Leave a Reply