Slow Cooker Cocktail Smokies Recipe

Cocktail smokies: Small, pre-cooked sausages that are ideal for appetizers.

Barbecue sauce: A tangy and savory sauce that forms the base of the glaze.

Grape jelly: Adds a sweet contrast to the savory barbecue sauce.

To enhance the flavor of your cocktail smokies, consider browning them in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step will add a deeper, caramelized flavor to the smokies and give them a slightly crispy texture. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the barbecue sauce and grape jelly mixture on the stovetop before combining it with the smokies.

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

• cocktail smokies - Substitute with sliced kielbasa: Sliced kielbasa offers a similar smoky flavor and can be easily portioned into bite-sized pieces.

• barbecue sauce - Substitute with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce mixture: Combining ketchup with Worcestershire sauce can mimic the tangy and savory profile of barbecue sauce.

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

• grape jelly - Substitute with apricot preserves: Apricot preserves offer a similar sweetness and consistency, adding a fruity note to the dish.

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

• Allow the cocktail smokies to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
• Transfer the smokies to an airtight container. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best to preserve freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent any odors from seeping in or out.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the smokies in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the smokies in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain their texture.
• Reheat in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Place the smokies in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it’s best to discard the smokies to ensure food safety.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover cocktail smokies in a saucepan. Add a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until they are warmed through. This method ensures even heating and maintains the smokies' juicy texture.

• Microwave Method: Transfer the smokies to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to trap steam. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the sauce too thick or the smokies tough.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the smokies in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is great for reheating larger quantities and keeps the barbecue sauce and grape jelly mixture from drying out.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have time, you can reheat the smokies in the slow cooker. Set it to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect for maintaining the original texture and flavor, especially if you’re serving them at another gathering.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the smokies in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method gives a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Sous Vide Method: For a gourmet touch, place the smokies in a vacuum-sealed bag or a ziplock bag using the water displacement method. Submerge in a sous vide bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 30 minutes. This method ensures precise temperature control and retains all the flavors.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at a lower temperature than other cooking methods, allowing for unattended cooking.

• Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir and combine ingredients in the slow cooker.

• Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients such as barbecue sauce and grape jelly.

• Tongs: A tool used to grip and lift the cocktail smokies, making it easier to add them to the slow cooker.

• Serving dish: A dish used to present the cocktail smokies once they are cooked and ready to serve.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the barbecue sauce and grape jelly the night before and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly pour it into the slow cooker.

Use pre-cooked smokies: Opt for pre-cooked cocktail smokies to cut down on cooking time and ensure they heat through evenly.

Line the slow cooker: Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. This saves time on washing up after serving.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for another occasion. This way, you only need to reheat the next time you crave cocktail smokies.