These Crockpot Bourbon BBQ Little Smokies are ridiculously easy and packed with sweet, smoky, and bold flavor. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work.
This is my go-to for game days, parties, or anytime I want something that feels homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. They come out sticky, saucy, and finger-lickin’ good every time.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is special to me because it’s one of those “set it and forget it” dishes that always impresses. I first made it for a last-minute game night, and now people ask for it. It’s cozy, a little indulgent, and the flavors just hit that perfect balance.
- Sweet, smoky, and a little spicy
- Only 5 ingredients
- Cooks right in the crockpot — no babysitting
- Perfect for potlucks or small bites during movie night
- Always a crowd-pleaser!
What You’ll Need
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite)
- ½ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Pro Tips
- Use a bold BBQ sauce – Sweet Baby Ray’s or something smoky works great here.
- Don’t skip the bourbon – It cooks off but adds deep flavor.
- Set to warm after cooking – Keeps them hot for hours without overcooking.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little kick.
- Garnish before serving – Chopped parsley or chives give a fresh finish.
Tools You’ll Need
- 6-quart black oval crockpot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or silicone spatula
- Small prep bowls
Substitutions & Variations
- No bourbon? Use apple juice or cola for a booze-free version.
- Try turkey or beef smokies if you prefer leaner meat.
- Add a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
- Use honey instead of brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can mix all the sauce ingredients the night before, refrigerate, and pour over the smokies in the morning. Set your crockpot and go!
Servings & Time
Serves: 10-12 as an appetizer
Cook Time: 2–3 hours on LOW
Recipe & Instructions
Step 1: Add the Little Smokies
Pour 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies directly into the crockpot. Spread them out so they lay evenly.
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Step 2: Add BBQ Sauce
Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the smokies. Use a spoon or spatula to lightly spread it over the top.
Step 3: Add Bourbon
Slowly pour ½ cup of bourbon evenly over the BBQ-covered smokies.
Step 4: Add Brown Sugar
Sprinkle ¼ cup packed brown sugar evenly over everything. Let it sit on top, don’t stir yet.
Step 5: Add Worcestershire Sauce
Drizzle 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce over the top for umami and depth.
Step 6: Cook on Low for 2–3 Hours
Cover with lid and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours until the smokies are hot and the sauce is thick and sticky. Stir halfway through if you can.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Give everything a gentle stir and transfer to a serving bowl or serve straight from the crockpot. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like.
Macros Information (per serving, about 5–6 smokies)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbs: 9g
- Sugar: 7g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Bourbon and BBQ sauce both have sugars that reduce and thicken as they cook. The brown sugar caramelizes slowly, adding richness. The alcohol in the bourbon cooks off, leaving deep smoky flavor behind. Worcestershire gives umami, tying all the flavors together in a sticky, crave-worthy sauce.
Common Mistakes
- Using raw sausage – These need to be pre-cooked Little Smokies, not raw sausages.
- Too much bourbon – Stick to ½ cup. More can overpower or make the sauce too runny.
- Overcooking – More than 3 hours and the sausages may shrivel or dry out.
- Not stirring – Stir at least once to prevent sugar from settling and burning.
What to Serve With
- Toothpicks or mini forks (they’re perfect for parties!)
- Soft pretzel bites
- Cornbread muffins
- Coleslaw or simple salad
- Mac and cheese on the side
FAQ
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger crockpot or cook in batches.
Can I cook on high?
Yes — cook on HIGH for about 1.5 hours, but LOW is best for even heating and thick sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Totally. Let them cool, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Is the bourbon taste strong?
Nope! It simmers down and blends in beautifully with the BBQ.
Leftovers & Storage
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. They also freeze really well — perfect for meal prep or future snacks!
Final Thoughts
These Bourbon BBQ Little Smokies are the kind of recipe that feels like you put in a ton of work, but the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. It’s cozy, bold, and always the first dish gone at any gathering. Give it a try and let me know how it goes in the comments. I’d love to hear how you made it your own!