Cocktail weenies are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, and this slow-cooker version makes them even easier to prepare. If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple yet packed with flavor, this recipe is a winner. The combination of savory barbeque sauce and sweet grape jelly creates a deliciously unique sauce that coats each cocktail sausage, giving them an irresistible taste. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving a tasty snack, these cocktail weenies will be the star of the show.
What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. With just three ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a dish that’s both crowd-pleasing and full of flavor. The tangy and sweet combination creates a balanced taste that complements the smokiness of the sausages, ensuring that every bite is satisfying. So, gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the company of friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With only three ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is always a hit at potlucks, BBQs, and parties.
- Versatile: Serve these cocktail weenies as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish.
- Minimal Ingredients: No need for fancy spices—just basic ingredients that are easy to find
Ingredients Overview
This cocktail wiener recipe is incredibly simple, requiring only three key ingredients:
- Barbeque Sauce: The rich, tangy base of the sauce that gives the sausages a savory depth of flavor.
- Grape Jelly: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory barbeque sauce.
- Cocktail Sausages (Lit’l Smokies): The star of the dish, these mini sausages are smoky and juicy, making them the perfect complement to the sauce
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by adding the barbeque sauce and grape jelly to your slow cooker. Stir the ingredients together until they’re well combined, creating a smooth sauce.
Step 2: Add the Sausages
Next, add the cocktail sausages to the slow cooker. Stir them gently until each sausage is coated with the sauce mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Cocktail Wieners
Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the sausages remain evenly coated. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, making the sausages tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sausages are heated through and the sauce has thickened, they’re ready to serve! Pour them into a serving dish, and they’re ready for guests to enjoy.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Use Your Favorite Barbecue Sauce: Choose a barbeque sauce that you love. The flavor of the sauce will really stand out, so pick one that suits your taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, use less grape jelly. You can also experiment with different types of jelly for a unique twist.
- Stir Occasionally: While the slow cooker does most of the work, give the sausages a stir every hour or so to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Cocktail Wieners: Add a touch of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Honey BBQ Version: Use honey BBQ sauce instead of regular barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Add Bacon: For a smokier flavor, add crumbled cooked bacon to the sausages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! These cocktail weenies can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stove before serving.
Q: Can I make these cocktail sausages on the stovetop?
A: Yes! You can cook them on the stovetop over low heat in a saucepan. Stir occasionally until heated through and the sauce thickens.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover cocktail wieners?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftover cocktail wieners for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
How to Store and Reheat
After cooking, store the leftover cocktail wieners in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a slow cooker on low or heat them gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish.
Conclusion
These cocktail wieners are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, making them a standout choice for any gathering. The combination of barbeque sauce and grape jelly creates a mouth-watering sauce that perfectly complements the smoky, tender sausages. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, attending a potluck, or just enjoying a casual snack, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The slow cooker method ensures effortless preparation, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family rather than worrying about cooking details. With only three basic ingredients and endless variations to explore, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try and watch as these cocktail sausages become the star of your next party spread or snack table—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor in every bite!
