Barbecued Sausage Pieces (Crock Pot)

The scent of barbecue always brings me back to summer evenings spent with my family, gathered around a picnic table laden with homemade delights. My grandfather, a master of the grill, always had a special dish of barbecued sausage simmering away – the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. He would make them with love, and they were always the first thing to disappear. Recreating that comforting taste and aroma in a slow cooker feels like giving a warm hug. I can’t wait to share my version of this classic dish, perfect for a relaxed weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage
• 1 cup hickory flavored barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Equipment Needed

• Skillet
• Slow cooker

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the smoked sausage. Cut the sausage into 1/2-inch pieces. Uniform sizes will ensure even browning and consistent flavor distribution.

2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the cut sausage to the skillet and brown them on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a rich, caramelized flavor and adds a delightful texture to the finished dish. Browning enhances the overall taste experience that a slow cooker alone cannot provide.

3. Transfer the browned sausage pieces to your slow cooker. Ensure the slow cooker is clean and ready to go. A 4-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe.

4. In a separate bowl, prepare the barbecue sauce mixture. Combine the hickory flavored barbecue sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps of brown sugar remain. The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps to create a glossy finish, while the brown sugar provides a deeper, molasses-like note.

5. Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the sausage pieces in the slow cooker. Make sure the sauce evenly coats the sausage to infuse it with flavor during the cooking process.

6. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

7. Cook on the Low setting for 2 hours. This gentle cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender and flavorful sausage pieces. If you’re short on time, you can cook on High for 1 hour, but the Low setting is recommended for the best results.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a deeper smoky flavor, consider using a smoked sausage variety, such as kielbasa or andouille.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture.
• To thicken the sauce at the end of the cooking time, remove the lid from the slow cooker and cook on High for the last 15-20 minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the sausage. Brown in batches to ensure even browning.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sauté some chopped onions and garlic in the skillet before browning the sausage. Then add the browned sausage and transfer everything to the slow cooker.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This versatile dish can be served in many ways. As the recipe suggests, you can serve the barbecued sausage pieces over a bed of fluffy rice or egg noodles for a satisfying main course. Alternatively, spear them with toothpicks and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party. Consider serving it with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. The flavors often deepen and become even more delicious the next day. You can also freeze the sausage for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	579.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	334 g	58%
Total Fat	37.2 g	57%
Saturated Fat	13.1 g	65%
Cholesterol	77.4 mg	25%
Sodium	2219.3 mg	92%
Total Carbohydrate	34.6 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	0.8 g	3%
Sugars	26.5 g	105%
Protein	26.4 g	52%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage.
• Experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors, such as spicy, tangy, or sweet.
• Add diced bell peppers and onions to the slow cooker for a more substantial and colorful dish.
• Replace honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free. Most commercially prepared sauces are, but it’s always wise to double-check the label.
• Add a can of drained and rinsed pineapple chunks during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked sausage, such as kielbasa, andouille, or even chorizo. The cooking time should remain the same.

Q: Can I cook this on High instead of Low?
A: Yes, you can cook it on High for about 1 hour, but cooking on Low for 2 hours is recommended for the best flavor and texture. It allows the flavors to meld together more effectively.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
A: If the sauce is too thin at the end of the cooking time, remove the lid from the slow cooker and cook on High for the last 15-20 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the sausage. This will add more flavor and nutrients to the dish.

Q: Is it necessary to brown the sausage before putting it in the slow cooker?
A: While not strictly necessary, browning the sausage adds a significant depth of flavor and texture to the dish. It’s highly recommended for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to bring that comforting barbecue magic into your own kitchen! Imagine the savory-sweet aroma filling your home, and the smiles on your family’s faces as they enjoy this easy yet delightful dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations and make it your own. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please share your feedback. Consider pairing this with cornbread and a refreshing glass of iced tea for the ultimate barbecue experience. Happy cooking!