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Dump-and-Go Honey BBQ Little Smokies - Easy, Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 (14-ounce) packages little smokies (cocktail sausages)
  • 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (use your favorite)
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (adds body and tang)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (or Dijon for a sharper bite)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Mix the sauce: In a bowl or directly in your slow cooker, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Taste and add a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
  2. Add the sausages: Pour in the little smokies and stir to coat them evenly in the sauce.
  3. Slow cooker option: Cover and cook on Low for 2–3 hours or High for 1–1.5 hours, stirring once halfway through. They’re ready when heated through and the sauce is glossy.
  4. Stovetop option: Add everything to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce to low and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully heated and slightly thickened.
  5. Adjust and finish: If the sauce tastes too sweet, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or more mustard. If it’s too tangy, add an extra drizzle of honey.
  6. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped herbs if you like, and set out toothpicks. Keep warm in the slow cooker on the Warm setting for parties.