slow cooker smokies recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best slow cooker smokies recipe

I have been making slow cooker smokies for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family. The smoky flavor of the sausages is perfectly balanced by the tangy BBQ sauce, and the fact that it’s all held together with a tender, fall-apart texture is just magic.

I love how this recipe is so easy to make, yet it’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. My kids adore helping me assemble the ingredients and watching the magic happen in the slow cooker.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this recipe is made with lean protein and plenty of veggies, making it a guilt-free treat for us all to enjoy. I’ve also found that this recipe freezes beautifully, so I can easily make a big batch and stash it away for future meals.

It’s truly a game-changer for busy families like mine.

Slow Cooker Smokies

4.8 from 885 votes

These slow cooker smokies are a classic party appetizer featuring little smoked sausages simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, making them incredibly easy to prepare.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time2 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 10 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Smokies

2 packages (14 ounces each) little smoked sausages (such as Lit’l Smokies)
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the little smoked sausages into the slow cooker.
2In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
3Pour the sauce mixture over the sausages in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat all the sausages evenly.
4Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, or on high heat for 1 to 1.
5 hours, until the sausages are heated through and the sauce is bubbly and thickened slightly.
5Once cooked, stir the smokies gently.
6Serve them directly from the slow cooker on the warm setting, using toothpicks for easy grabbing.
7The sauce will be hot, so allow a minute for them to cool slightly before serving.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (4 to 6 quart)
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or spoon
Toothpicks (for serving)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also use grape jelly or chili sauce in place of the ketchup and brown sugar for a different flavor profile. These can be kept warm in the slow cooker for up to 4 hours.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Smokies Works

This slow cooker smokies recipe is truly one of my go-to’s when I need to feed a crowd or just want something comforting and familiar after a long day.

The best part is that it’s so easy to make – simply throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic!

Whether you’re serving this at home or taking it to a potluck or party, I guarantee it’ll be a hit with everyone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Smokies

Q: What are smokies?

Smokies are a type of sausage that is typically made from pork and seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices. They’re often smoked to give them a rich, savory flavor.

Q: Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of sausage in this recipe. Some popular options include chorizo, bratwurst, or Italian sausage.

Q: Do I need to brown the sausages before putting them in the slow cooker?

No, you don’t need to brown the sausages before putting them in the slow cooker. In fact, browning can be skipped altogether if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a Dutch oven instead of a slow cooker?

Sure thing! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can easily make this recipe in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven.

Q: How long does it take for the sausages to cook in the slow cooker?

The cooking time will depend on your personal preference for tenderness – if you like your sausages nice and tender, cook them on low for 6-8 hours. If you prefer them slightly firmer, cook them on high for 3-4 hours.

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