These Hot Honey Garlic Lil Smokies are pure magic. You just toss everything into a crockpot, let it bubble away, and what you get is sticky, sweet, garlicky, slightly spicy bites of heaven.
These are perfect for game day, holidays, or even lazy Friday nights when you want something fun without turning on the oven. It’s cozy, a little indulgent, and totally addictive.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe came from a family get-together where everyone brought appetizers. My cousin showed up with these lil smokies that disappeared in 10 minutes flat. I begged her for the recipe, and now I make them for almost every party. It’s one of those low-effort, high-reward dishes.
- Only takes 5 minutes of prep
- Crockpot does all the work
- Sweet, spicy, sticky—hits all the flavors
- Everyone loves them
- Feeds a crowd
Makes: 8 servings
Cook Time: 2 hours on high (or 3-4 on low)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 5 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 (14 oz) packages beef lil smokies
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s or your fave)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Chopped parsley + sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use beef smokies—they have the best texture and flavor
- Warm the honey a bit so it mixes in easily
- Don’t skip the garlic—it adds a real kick
- For extra stickiness, cook uncovered the last 30 minutes
- You can keep them on warm in the crockpot for hours
Tools Required
- 1 medium black oval crockpot
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Small bowls for mixing
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife & cutting board
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap honey for maple syrup
- Use turkey or chicken lil smokies if you prefer
- Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-tart twist
- Go smokier with BBQ sauce instead of ketchup
- Use chili flakes or sriracha for different heat
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Dump everything in the crockpot when you’re ready.
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Add Lil Smokies to Crockpot
Pour 2 (14 oz) packages of beef lil smokies straight into the black crockpot. Spread them out evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 finely minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Lil Smokies
Pour the entire sauce mixture evenly over the smokies in the crockpot.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours (or LOW for 3–4 hours), until hot and sticky. Stir halfway through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Spoon into a round serving bowl. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and sesame seeds if you want a little flair.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. You can also freeze them—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The honey and sugar create a caramelized glaze that thickens as it cooks. The acid from the vinegar balances the sweetness, while the garlic and hot sauce cut through for flavor depth. The slow cooking lets all the flavors soak into the sausages without drying them out.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much sauce – Stick to the measurements or it can get too soupy.
- Skipping the stir – Stir halfway to keep the sauce from burning at the edges.
- Undercooking – You want the sauce to reduce and cling, so don’t cut it short.
- Using raw garlic slices – Always finely mince it so it blends into the sauce.
What to Serve With
- Toothpicks or small skewers for easy grabbing
- Crackers or toasted bread
- Mac & cheese
- Veggie tray with dip
- Coleslaw or potato salad
FAQ
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a large crockpot and double everything.
Can I use a different sausage?
Totally—any bite-sized smoked sausage works.
Is this spicy?
It’s mild with a gentle heat, but you can make it spicier by adding more hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Can I make it without a crockpot?
Yes! Simmer everything in a saucepan on low for about 20-30 minutes, stirring often.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers you’ll come back to again and again. It’s got just enough kick to keep things interesting and the sweet, garlicky glaze is unreal. Try it for your next party or movie night and let me know how it went in the comments—I’d love to hear your twist on it!