Slow Cooker Cocktail Smokies Recipe

Cocktail smokies: These are small, pre-cooked sausages that are perfect for appetizers.

Barbecue sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce that adds flavor to the smokies.

Grape jelly: Adds a sweet and fruity element to the dish, balancing the tanginess of the barbecue sauce.

To enhance the flavor of your cocktail smokies, try browning them in a skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This step will give the smokies a slightly crispy texture and a deeper, more complex taste. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid of the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

• cocktail smokies - Substitute with mini meatballs: Mini meatballs provide a similar bite-sized, savory experience and can easily absorb the flavors of the sauce.

• cocktail smokies - Substitute with sliced kielbasa: Sliced kielbasa offers a smoky and flavorful alternative that pairs well with the sauce.

• barbecue sauce - Substitute with ketchup and mustard mix: A mix of ketchup and mustard can mimic the tangy and sweet profile of barbecue sauce.

• barbecue sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor that can complement the grape jelly.

• grape jelly - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves offer a similar sweetness and texture, adding a slightly different fruit flavor.

• grape jelly - Substitute with cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce provides a tart and sweet flavor that can balance the savory elements of the dish.

• Allow the cocktail smokies to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• Transfer the smokies and sauce into an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any air from getting in.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the smokies within 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat.
• For longer storage, place the cooled smokies in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the barbecue sauce and grape jelly mixture.
• To reheat refrigerated smokies, transfer them to a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• For frozen smokies, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures even warming and preserves the texture of the cocktail smokies.
• If you're in a hurry, you can reheat frozen smokies directly in the microwave. Use the defrost setting first, then heat on medium power until fully warmed.
• Always check the internal temperature of the smokies to ensure they are heated to a safe temperature before serving.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover cocktail smokies in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave Method: Transfer the cocktail smokies to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Slow Cooker Method: Return the cocktail smokies to the slow cooker. Set it to low and heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect if you want to keep them warm for a longer period.
• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cocktail smokies in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are heated through.
• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the cocktail smokies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used to simmer foods at a lower temperature than other cooking methods.

• Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir and combine ingredients.

• Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.

• Serving dish: A dish or platter used to present the finished dish for serving.

• Tongs: A tool used to grip and lift the cocktail smokies when serving.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly the night before and store in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked smokies: Opt for pre-cooked cocktail smokies to reduce cooking time.

Set a timer: Use a programmable slow cooker with a timer to start cooking while you're away.

Double the batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze half for future use.