Crockpot little smokies with grape jelly are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, and game day gatherings.
These bite-sized weenies simmer in a sweet and tangy sauce, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer with little to no effort.
Easy crock pot little smokies recipe
This 3 ingredient slow cooker little smokies recipe is a go-to for busy hosts who want a hands-off dish that still delivers big flavor.
Whether served on their own or as part of a party spread, these crockpot appetizers are always a hit.
Recipe Highlights
Easy peasy: Just add the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do all the work. No extra steps needed.
Crowd Favorite: The combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors makes this a gameday recipe everyone enjoys.
Minimal Ingredients: With only three simple ingredients, it’s easy to make with pantry staples.
Fun Serving ideas: Serve them on toothpicks, in mini buns, or alongside other appetizers.
Ingredients
- Little Smokies: Mini smoked sausages that are tender and full of flavor. I used beef lil smokies, feel free to use other varieties like pork.
- Grape Jelly: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and tangy flavors.
- BBQ Sauce: Provides a rich, smoky base for the sauce.
* Need to print out this recipe? You’ll find a printable recipe card at the end of this post. Enjoy!
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- Slow cooker
How to make crockpot little smokies
Place the little smokies in the crockpot, then pour in the grape jelly and BBQ sauce.
Cover and cook on low for 2 - 3 hours. If you find that the sauce is too thin at this time, remove the lid and simmer for about 10 to 20 mins or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Once done, give them a final stir and enjoy!
How to serve
Transfer the cocktail sausages into a platter or bowl and serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Make lil smokies sliders: Load them into mini buns for an easy slider option.
With Rice or Pasta: Serve over cooked rice or noodles for a quick meal.
With Dips: Pair with mustard, garlic aioli, mayocue or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Storing leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Helpful Tips
- Opt to use a Liner: A slow cooker liner makes cleanup easier.
- Adjust the Sauce: For a tangier flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Want it more spicy? Add a ½ to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix before cooking.
- Keep Warm: If serving at a party, set the crockpot to warm to keep them hot.
- Try Different Jellies: Swap grape jelly for cranberry or raspberry for a unique twist.
FAQs
Yes! Simmer the little smokies with grape jelly and BBQ sauce in a saucepan over low heat for about 15–20 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs well, but you can use spicy or tangy varieties to suit your taste.
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
No, the sauce ingredients provide enough liquid to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Yes, but let them thaw first or add extra cooking time.
More Game day eats
- Beer cheese dip
- Chili corn salsa
- Air fryer frozen chicken wings
- Check out all our Home Cooked Recipes
These crockpot little smokies with grape jelly are an easy and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, and holidays.
With just three ingredients, minimal prep, and plenty of serving options, there’s no reason not to give this crock pot appetizer a try. Make a batch today and watch them disappear!
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Crockpot little smokies with grape jelly
Equipment
- 5qt Crockpot or any slow cooker
Ingredients
- 36 oz Little smokies sausages (Cocktail sausages) (3 x 12oz packages )
- 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce
- 1 cup Grape jelly
Instructions
- Add the little smokies to the crockpot.
- Pour the BBQ sauce and grape jelly over the sausages, stirring to evenly coat them in the sauce.
- Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are warmed through and the sauce is bubbling.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level to your liking. You can add cayenne powder or pepper flakes.
- Use your favorite bbq sauce. However, if you like it sweet, use a sweet BBQ sauce rather than a smoky one for the best flavor combination with the grape jelly. Stubb’s Sticky Sweet BBQ sauce and Welch’s Natural Concord Grape Jelly Spread work well, but any preferred brand including sugar-free options can be used.
- Cooking low and slow helps the flavors meld together perfectly.
If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 10–20 minutes until it thickens to your preference. - Storing Leftovers: Let the little smokies cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
