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Bringing together smoky sausages with sweet and tangy Asian-inspired sauces, these honey teriyaki little smokies are perfect for parties or family gatherings. The magic happens in the slow cooker while you get on with your day, making it both incredibly easy and packed with flavor that sticks with you.
I remember serving these at a family game night and they disappeared before halftime. Now they are my go-to “set it and forget it” party snack that everyone requests.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Little smokies smoked sausages: Three packs. Drain and select quality sausages with a firm snap for best bite.
- Pineapple chunks: One can. Drain well, as this sweetness balances all the savory notes. Choose pineapple with vibrant yellow color and no soft spots.
- Honey teriyaki marinade and sauce: One bottle. Look for a marinade with real honey listed at the top of the ingredients for rich flavor.
- Sweet Asian chili sauce: One bottle. Select your preferred heat level. Medium gives subtle warmth, hot goes bold. Use a brand with visible flecks of chili and garlic for extra depth.
- Cornstarch: Adjust amount to preferred sauce thickness. Always pick a fresh box for smooth thickening. A little goes a long way.
How to Make It
- Prepare Your Slow Cooker:
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker crock with a thin coat of cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup, especially after the sauce thickens.
- Layer and Arrange:
- Scatter the drained little smokies evenly over the bottom of the crockpot. Then sprinkle pineapple chunks on top so the fruit infuses the sausages with their sweet juice during cooking.
- Mix and Coat:
- Pour in both the honey teriyaki marinade and the sweet Asian chili sauce. Gently toss everything together with a spatula until the sausages and pineapple are coated from end to end. Every piece should be shiny and well covered.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Set your slow cooker to high and cover. Let the mixture bubble away for two hours. The sausages soak up the sauce while the pineapple turns very tender. Stir once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in just enough reserved pineapple juice to make a smooth liquid. Drizzle this mixture into the slow cooker near the end of cooking. Stir gently until the sauce thickens to your liking. Taste and adjust with more cornstarch if you prefer an extra clingy glaze.
My favorite detail is how the pineapple gets caramelized edges after slow cooking which always reminds me of the sweet and savory bites from summer cookouts. My kids call these “party candy” and it has become a staple whenever we have friends or neighbors over.
Flavor Boosters
Pineapple juice boosts both the sauce flavor and the sticky texture. Swap pineapple chunks for tidbits or diced fresh pineapple for extra fruitiness, and explore adding extra pineapple juice in winter for a comforting, glossy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Pile these little smokies onto a platter with cocktail picks for easy grab-and-go snacking. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy slider buns to make it a main meal, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Creative Twists
Vegetarian versions shine with plant-based mini sausages soaking up the bold Asian sauces. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, use teriyaki marinade with less honey or balance with a splash of soy sauce.
These saucy little smokies pack maximum flavor for minimum effort. Each bite brings a party-perfect sweet and smoky kick sure to be requested again and again.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute canned pineapple with fresh chunks. Ensure you reserve some juice to help thicken the sauce with cornstarch.
- → What type of sausages work best?
Little smokies smoked sausages are recommended for their bite-sized convenience and flavor, but cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs can also be used.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely. You can assemble the ingredients ahead and refrigerate. Cook when ready to serve, or keep warm in the slow cooker during events.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Certainly. Choose mild, medium, or hot Asian chili sauce based on your spice preference to customize the final flavor.
- → How do I thicken the sauce if needed?
Dissolve cornstarch in reserved pineapple juice and stir into the mixture at the end of cooking. Adjust the amount for your desired sauce consistency.