If you’re looking for an easy party appetizer or game-day snack that people devour, these Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Little Smokies are it.
Dump everything in your slow cooker and just let it do the work. You end up with these juicy, sticky-sweet, flavor-packed bites that disappear FAST.
This one’s been in my family for years, and every time I make it, people ask for the recipe. Simple, bold, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those “set it and forget it” recipes that always saves the day. We started making this for family game nights, and now it’s become a tradition for every holiday spread or potluck. Here’s why it works every time:
- You only need 5 minutes of prep
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have
- The sweet + savory combo is unbeatable
- Keeps warm in the slow cooker all night
What You’ll Need
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (thick variety)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
- Garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Pro Tips
- Use the thicker teriyaki sauce, not the watery kind. It helps the glaze stick.
- Warm up the honey slightly so it mixes easier with the sauce.
- Leave the lid on—opening it too often slows cooking.
- Add a cornstarch slurry at the end if you want a thicker sauce.
- Keep it on “Warm” for hours at a party—it gets better as it simmers.
Tools You’ll Need
- 1 black oval crockpot (6-quart is perfect)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: small pan for thickening sauce
Substitutions & Variations
- Little Smokies → Sliced beef or turkey sausages
- Teriyaki Sauce → Mix soy sauce with a little brown sugar and cornstarch
- Honey → Maple syrup works but will change the flavor slightly
- Garlic Powder → Fresh minced garlic (1 clove)
- Add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the sauce up to 3 days in advance and keep it in the fridge. On cooking day, just toss everything into the slow cooker.
Servings & Time
Servings: 10–12 appetizer servings
Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours on HIGH or 4 to 5 hours on LOW
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Full Recipe: Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Little Smokies
Step 1: Add Little Smokies to Crockpot
Add 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies directly into the black oval crockpot. Spread them out so they’re evenly layered.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Smokies
Pour the sauce evenly over the Little Smokies in the crockpot, making sure all are coated.
Step 4: Cook on HIGH for 2–3 Hours or LOW for 4–5 Hours
Cover with lid and cook. Stir once or twice during cooking to coat everything well.
Step 5 (Optional): Thicken Sauce
For a thicker glaze, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water in a small bowl. Stir into the crockpot in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a round white serving bowl, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onion.
Macros (Per Serving – Approx. 1/2 cup)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 13g
- Sugar: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The honey and brown sugar caramelize slightly during the long cook, giving you that sticky, glossy glaze. Teriyaki sauce provides a umami base, while the garlic powder and soy sauce layer on extra depth. Low and slow cooking helps the sausages absorb all that flavor without drying out.
Common Mistakes
- Using watery teriyaki sauce: Go for a thicker brand or the sauce won’t stick.
- Not stirring once or twice: It helps keep the coating even.
- Overcooking: Anything past 5 hours on low may cause the sausages to shrivel.
- Skipping the optional slurry: If you like a thick glaze, don’t miss that final step.
What to Serve With
- Toothpicks or small forks for easy serving
- A bowl of rice to make it a meal
- Cucumber salad or slaw to balance the sweetness
- Mini slider buns to turn them into tiny sandwiches
- Sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping
FAQ
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use an 8-quart crockpot and increase sauce ingredients proportionally.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes—let them cool, then freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Can I make it spicy?
Totally—add 1 tsp sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mix.
Do I have to use Little Smokies?
Nope! Sliced kielbasa or mini chicken sausages work too.
Tips for Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or back in the slow cooker on “Warm.” For longer storage, freeze and thaw in the fridge overnight.
Final Thoughts
These Honey Teriyaki Little Smokies are ridiculously easy and always get compliments. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you need something delicious without stress. If you make them, leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you or if you gave them your own spin!