Slow cooker dishes have a unique charm, especially when they involve the delightful combo of bacon and savory sausages. One of my favorite crowd-pleasers is Slow Cooker Bacon Wrapped Smokies. This recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a delectable appetizer perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy family night in. The sweet and salty flavor combination, paired with the ease of slow cooking, makes this dish a standout choice for anyone looking to impress their guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine this: a delightful selection of cocktail sausages, all wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet glaze—what’s not to love? This recipe is incredibly versatile; it’s ideal for game day, holiday parties, or even just as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Not only is it pleasing to the taste buds, but it also won’t break the bank, thanks to its simple ingredients. You’ll appreciate that it’s quick to prepare and cook when you’re short on time, yet still delivers a flavor profile that’s truly gourmet.

"These bacon-wrapped smokies were a hit at our family gathering! They disappeared in minutes, and everyone was asking for the recipe. So easy and delicious!"

Preparing Slow Cooker Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Making these smokies is simple and straightforward. Here’s a quick breakdown of the process before we dive into the specific ingredients. First, you’ll prep the bacon, wrap it around the sausages, and secure it with toothpicks. Next, you’ll layer them in the slow cooker with a sweet brown sugar and paprika mixture. Finally, just let your slow cooker do its magic while you enjoy your time with friends or family!

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

• 16 ounces “Lil” Smokies (cocktail sausages)
• 12 ounces bacon
• 1 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon paprika
• Toothpicks

If you want to switch it up, consider using turkey bacon for a lighter alternative or experimenting with different spices for a kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the bacon: Cut each slice of bacon into three pieces.
2. Wrap the sausages: Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each cocktail sausage. Secure the ends with a toothpick to keep the bacon in place.
3. Mix the sugars and spices: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar and paprika.
4. Layer in the slow cooker: Sprinkle 1 cup of the brown sugar mixture at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the wrapped sausages on top.
5. Finish with sugar: Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture over the sausages.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours. Feel free to move the sausages around halfway through to ensure even browning.
7. Serve and enjoy: Once done, remove from the slow cooker and serve warm!When these smokies are hot and ready, there are several ways to serve them that can elevate your experience. You might consider serving them with toothpicks for easy handling, alongside a tangy dipping sauce like BBQ or even a spicy mustard. Pair them with crisp vegetable sticks or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. They are also fantastic alongside potato chips or pretzels for added crunch!

   Storage and Reheating Tips

   To keep your leftovers fresh, place any uneaten bacon-wrapped smokies in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in an oven set to a low temperature until warmed through. If you want to save them for later, they freeze well too! Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.

   Pro Chef Tips

   To elevate your smokies even further, consider these tips:

   • Sear before slow cooking: For added texture, you can sear the bacon-wrapped sausages in a hot skillet for a few minutes before placing them in the slow cooker.
   • Experiment with flavors: Try different spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder to give your dish a unique twist. Alternatively, consider wrapping the sausages in a layer of cheese before securing them with bacon for a cheesy delight!
   • Don’t rush the cooking time: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so resist the urge to cook them at a higher temperature for a shorter time.

   Creative Twists

   This recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. Why not try using different types of sausages, such as spicy Italian or smoked sausage for extra flavor? You could even experiment with various glazes—some people enjoy adding a splash of maple syrup for a sweet twist, or even a touch of bourbon for richness. If you’re looking for healthier options, swap out the bacon for a chicken or turkey alternative!

   Your Questions Answered

   Q: What is the prep time for this recipe?
   A: Preparing these smoky bites takes around 15-20 minutes, so it’s a low-effort dish that yields high rewards!

   Q: Can I use a different brand or type of sausages?
   A: Absolutely! While "Lil" Smokies are traditional, any quality cocktail sausage will work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using larger sausages.

   Q: How should I store leftovers?
   A: Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

   This Slow Cooker Bacon Wrapped Smokies recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household—perfect for snacking or entertaining. Enjoy the deliciousness!

   Ingredients

   
   

   Main ingredients

   • 16 ounces Lil Smokies (cocktail sausages) Any quality cocktail sausage can be used.
   • 12 ounces bacon Turkey bacon can be used as a lighter alternative.
   • 1 3/4 cup brown sugar Divided into two portions for layering.
   • 1/2 tablespoon paprika Can be adjusted according to taste.
   • toothpicks For securing the bacon around the sausages.

   Method

    

   Preparation

   1. Cut each slice of bacon into three pieces.
   2. Wrap a piece of bacon around each cocktail sausage and secure the ends with a toothpick.

   Cooking

   1. In a bowl, combine the brown sugar and paprika.
   2. Sprinkle 1 cup of the brown sugar mixture at the bottom of the slow cooker.
   3. Place the wrapped sausages on top.
   4. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture over the sausages.
   5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours, moving the sausages halfway through for even browning.
   6. Once done, remove from the slow cooker and serve warm.

   Nutrition

   Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18g

   Notes

   Serve with toothpicks for easy handling. Pair with BBQ or spicy mustard dipping sauce, vegetable sticks, or potato chips for an added crunch. Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and can last 3-4 days in the fridge.

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