If you’re searching for a simple yet irresistibly tasty appetizer or snack, the Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe should be your go-to. This delightful dish combines smoky cocktail sausages with the perfect balance of tangy barbecue sauce and sweet grape jelly, creating a luscious glaze that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s comfort food magic that you can wake up, set it, and forget it until party time. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it a trusted favorite for gatherings, game days, or anytime you crave a crowd-pleaser that’s as effortless as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a few pantry staples come together to create a flavor explosion that feels anything but basic. Each ingredient plays its role: the smokies bring a juicy, savory core; the BBQ sauce adds a smoky tang and a hint of spice; and the grape jelly offers sweetness and a silky texture that perfectly balances the dish.
- 20 ounces Lil’ Smokies: These cocktail sausages are the star, offering a smoky, savory bite that’s bite-sized and perfect for dipping or snacking.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite variety to give the dish a rich, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor that ties everything together.
- 3/4 cup grape jelly: This adds a glossy sweetness that cuts through the smoky richness and creates that signature sticky glaze everyone loves.
How to Make Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe
Step 1: Add the Little Smokies to the Crockpot
Start by pouring the entire package of Lil’ Smokies into your crockpot. This is your flavorful foundation, and having all those smokies cozy in the pot means they’ll soak up all the goodness to come.
Step 2: Pour in the Barbecue Sauce
Next, pour in one full cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. This sauce is key for adding that bold, tangy punch and a little hint of smokiness that keeps things interesting.
Step 3: Add the Grape Jelly
The grape jelly brings a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the BBQ sauce. Adding 3/4 cup straight into the crockpot creates that delightful, sticky glaze that clings to each smokie.
Step 4: Mix and Cover
Give everything a gentle stir until all the little smokies are coated evenly with the sauce and jelly mixture. Cover the crockpot to trap all the flavors and heat.
Step 5: Cook on Low for 2-3 Hours
Set your crockpot on low and let it work its magic for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking allows the smokies to absorb all those fantastic flavors, thickening the glaze to a delectable stickiness.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Once cooked, give it a final stir to make sure nothing has settled at the bottom, then dish them out. These smokies taste amazing served warm, fresh from the crockpot, perfect for dipping or eating straight from your plate.
How to Serve Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions on top of your finished dish. Both add a fresh, vibrant touch that enlivens each bite with subtle hints of herbaceous brightness. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the smoky sweetness with a tiny kick if you like just a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic party sides like crispy potato chips, crusty bread slices, or fresh vegetable crudités. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside creamy mac and cheese or a crisp coleslaw to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just serving these smokies in a basic bowl. Try skewering them on toothpicks for easy grab-and-go snacking or layering them on small slider buns for mini sandwiches. Another fun idea is serving them over a bed of steamed rice or mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making for an even tastier snack the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked little smokies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, simply warm them in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking or drying out, and add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if necessary to revive the glaze.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Lil’ Smokies are classic for this recipe, you can substitute with any small cocktail sausages or even sliced smoked sausage. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can! Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the sausages well.
Can I use a different type of jelly?
While grape jelly is traditional and complements the BBQ sauce beautifully, you can experiment with other sweet jellies like cranberry or apricot for a new flavor twist. Just pick one that’s not too tart to keep the right balance.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe tends to be mild and sweet by default, but you can easily adjust the spice level by using a spicy BBQ sauce or adding red pepper flakes. It’s totally flexible to your taste preferences.
Can I double the recipe for a big crowd?
Definitely! The Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe scales up beautifully. Just double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches to ensure even heating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and satisfying about the Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe—it’s a hug in a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit wherever it goes. Whether you’re heading to a party, hosting family, or just want a no-fuss snack that pleases everyone, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, and prepare for lots of happy smiles and full plates!
Print
Crockpot Little Smokies with BBQ Sauce and Grape Jelly Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 185 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Little Smokies recipe is a simple and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties or easy snacks. Combining savory cocktail sausages with a sweet and tangy mixture of barbecue sauce and grape jelly, this dish requires minimal preparation and cooks low and slow in the crockpot to meld flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 20 ounces Lil’ Smokies (cocktail sausage)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 3/4 cup grape jelly
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Place the little smokies in the crock pot, making sure they are evenly spread out for uniform cooking.
- Add BBQ sauce: Pour in one cup of your favorite barbecue sauce over the sausages to add savory and smoky flavor.
- Add grape jelly: Add 3/4 cup of grape jelly on top to infuse a sweet and tangy contrast to the BBQ sauce.
- Mix and cover: Stir the mixture gently to coat the little smokies evenly, then cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Cook low and slow: Cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the sausages to heat through fully.
- Serve: Once cooked, give a final stir, serve warm, and enjoy this deliciously easy appetizer.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of grape jelly.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy, party-friendly snacking.
- Use your preferred BBQ sauce type (spicy, smoky, or sweet) to tailor the flavor.
