Enjoy our simple set-it-and-forget-it, Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Lil Smokies Recipe. The Dr Pepper adds the perfect caramelization to the sausages, and the BBQ Sauce gives a nice smoky flavor with a hint of spice from chili powder.
For specifics on the recipe, use the table of contents to click on sections of the recipe.
Jump to:
Why you'll love this recipe
- Slow Cooker Lil Smokies are always a hit, quick, and easy to prepare.
- Dr Pepper Lil Smokies uses just a few simple ingredients.
- From beginner cook to advanced, anyone can make this little smokies recipe, and it will always be delicious.
- These little smokies are perfect for game day, family gatherings, and BBQs. Anytime you want an easy, delicious appetizer.
I love slow cooker appetizers because they are easy to prepare with delicious results. Some of my favorites are Cranberry Cocktail Meatballs and Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Dip.
Ingredient List
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce: Use either homemade BBQ sauce or your favorite store-bought. If store-bought, my favorite is Sweet Baby Rays.
- ¼ cup honey: Maple Syrup could also be used.
- ¼ light brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 12-ounce can Dr. Pepper
- 2 (28) ounce packages of Lil Smokie
Tools needed to make Slow Cooker Lil Smokies
- Slow Cooker
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
How to make Lil Smokies in the Slow Cooker
This is an overview of the recipe. The full instructions are below in the recipe card.
- Whisk ingredients together in the slow cooker. Add the Lil Smokies.
- Cook on low temperature for 6 hours or high temperature for 4 hours.
Make-ahead, storage, and freezer tips
Storage - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer - The smokies can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in a slow cooker on low for about an hour, stovetop, or in the oven.
Eileen's Tips for the best Lil Smokies
- Every slow cooker is slightly different when it comes to heating. Check on the sausages around the 3-hour mark to see if they are heated through.
- I garnish the little smokies with chopped fresh parsley for color; this is optional.
Variations
Here are some ways to change the flavor of this dish.
- Dr Pepper: Use any soda, such as cola, root beer, or lemon-lime soda.
- BBQ Sauce: Use either store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.
- Lil Smokies: Any cocktail sausage, cocktail hot dogs, or even keilbasi can be used for this recipe.
FAQs to make the best Lil Smokies
Yes, the Lil Smokies have been precooked before packaging. This makes it easy to place them in a sauce in the slow cooker.
Yes. If you don't have a crockpot, bake the Lil Smokies in an oven-safe pan with the sauce uncovered for about 20 minutes to warm the sauce.
The beauty of these little sausages is that they are already cooked. You only need to heat them in the sauce for an easy recipe.
More appetizers to try
- Dry Rub Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Cheese Stuffed Onion Rings
- Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings
- Buffalo Chicken Nachos
I love any comments or questions, please feel free to leave them below.
Keep up to date with recipes by following me on:
FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM PINTEREST TWITTER
Thank you for your continued support. I am forever grateful.
Eileen xo
If you click on the number of servings in the recipe card, you can adjust the measurements up or down for the exact number of servings you need.
📖 Recipe
Save the Recipe?
Enter your email below and we'll send the recipe straight to your inbox to view anytime. Plus the bonus of regular recipes to you for inspiration!
Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Lil Smokies
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Equipment Needed:
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ light brown sugar
- 1 Tablespoon chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 12 ounce can Dr. Pepper
- 2 (28) ounce packages of Lil Smokie 56 ounces total
Instructions
- Whisk together 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce, ¼ cup honey, ¼ light brown sugar, 1 Tablespoon chili powder, 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard, and 12 ounce can Dr. Pepper in the vessel of a slow cooker.
- Place 2 (28) ounce packages of Lil Smokie into the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Pour the mixture over the smokies and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve!
NOTES
Flavors: Use any of sodas, we prefer Dr. Pepper, which adds a great flavor. Mustard: Use any mustard you have on hand in the pantry. BBQ Sauce: A store-made or homemade BBQ Sauce can be used for this recipe.
-
Don’t forget to shop at the Everyday Eileen store on Amazon.
Comments
No Comments