## Irresistible Little Smokies Meatballs Crock Pot Recipe for Your Next Gathering
When it comes to hosting a gathering or a cozy family dinner, having a crowd-pleasing dish is essential. That’s where the **Little Smokies Meatballs Crock P……
When it comes to hosting a gathering or a cozy family dinner, having a crowd-pleasing dish is essential. That’s where the **Little Smokies Meatballs Crock Pot Recipe** comes into play. This delectable dish combines the savory flavors of meatballs with the smoky goodness of Little Smokies, all cooked to perfection in a convenient crock pot. Whether you’re planning a game day party, a holiday celebration, or just a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.
### Why Choose the Little Smokies Meatballs Crock Pot Recipe?
The **Little Smokies Meatballs Crock Pot Recipe** is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve these mouthwatering meatballs as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as part of a buffet spread. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy meatballs that are bursting with flavor. Plus, the crock pot makes it a hassle-free option, freeing you to enjoy your time with friends and family without being stuck in the kitchen.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- **1 pound of Little Smokies sausages**
- **1 pound of ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)**
- **1 cup of breadcrumbs**
- **1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese**
- **1/4 cup of chopped parsley**
- **2 cloves of garlic, minced**
- **1 egg**
- **1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce**
- **1 cup of grape jelly (for a sweet and tangy twist)**
These ingredients come together to create a flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet, making it a hit among both kids and adults alike.
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meatballs**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, and egg. Mix until well combined. Then, form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
2. **Brown the Meatballs**: For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the crock pot. This step is optional but recommended for a richer taste.
3. **Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot**: Place the browned meatballs and the Little Smokies into the crock pot. In a separate bowl, mix the barbecue sauce and grape jelly until well blended. Pour this sauce over the meatballs and Little Smokies, ensuring they are well coated.
4. **Cook**: Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously sticky and savory sauce.
5. **Serve**: Once cooked, serve the meatballs and Little Smokies hot. You can garnish with additional parsley if desired. These can be enjoyed on their own, with toothpicks for easy snacking, or served alongside a selection of sides for a more substantial meal.
### Tips for the Perfect Little Smokies Meatballs
- **Adjust the Sweetness**: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the amount of grape jelly or substitute it with a tangy mustard sauce.
- **Add Heat**: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- **Make Ahead**: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Just assemble everything in the crock pot and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
### Conclusion
The **Little Smokies Meatballs Crock Pot Recipe** is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their entertaining game. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for any occasion. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to indulge in this irresistible treat that will surely become a staple at your gatherings. Enjoy!