Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies
Introduction
Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer? These Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies are sweet, smoky, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Cocktail sausages are slow-cooked in a rich sauce made with apple butter, barbecue sauce, and a blend of savory seasonings, creating a delicious bite that’s perfect for game days, holiday parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, your slow cooker does all the work.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Only a few simple ingredients
– Sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor
– Perfect for parties and potlucks
– Easy slow cooker recipe
– Great make-ahead appetizer
Ingredients
For the Little Smokies
– 2 packages (14 ounces each) Little Smokies cocktail sausages
– 1 cup apple butter
– 1½ cups barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
– Chopped fresh parsley
– Sliced green onions
– Sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Place the Little Smokies in the slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple butter, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce over the sausages and stir gently to coat them evenly.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1–2 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking.
5. Once heated through, switch the slow cooker to the WARM setting for serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips
– Stir the sausages occasionally to keep them evenly coated in the sauce.
– Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor.
– Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies with toothpicks as an easy appetizer or alongside sliders, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, or a fresh vegetable platter. They’re also a great addition to holiday buffets and game-day snack tables.
Conclusion
Crockpot Apple Butter BBQ Little Smokies are an effortless appetizer that’s packed with sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. With tender cocktail sausages simmered in a rich apple butter barbecue sauce, this easy slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to be the first dish to disappear at your next party or gathering.