If you’ve never made Crockpot Little Smokies with Grape Jelly, you’re in for something so easy, so tasty, and honestly… kind of addictive. It’s one of those “dump it all in, walk away” recipes that everyone ends up loving at potlucks, game nights, or just chilling on the weekend. Three ingredients, five minutes of prep, and boom—you’ve got sweet, tangy, smoky bites of magic.
🍴 What You’ll Need
- 2 (14 oz) packages little smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1 cup grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
🧡 Why I Love This Recipe
This one’s been in my back pocket for years. First time I had it, I was at a friend’s housewarming. I took one bite, asked for the recipe, and I’ve made it ever since. Here’s why it’s always a hit:
- Only 3 ingredients and no chopping or fussing.
- You can toss it in the slow cooker and forget about it till party time.
- The sweet + smoky combo? Absolute flavor bomb.
- Great for holidays, football games, or even a lazy Sunday.
🍽️ Servings & Time
- Servings: About 10 as an appetizer
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours on LOW or 1–1.5 hours on HIGH
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
This sauce combo is a classic for a reason. The grape jelly brings sweet and sticky, and the BBQ sauce brings savory, smoky depth with just a hint of tang. As they cook down, the sugars caramelize slightly and cling to the sausages, turning into a glaze. The sausages themselves release some juices, blending everything together perfectly.
🥘 Meal Plan Ideas
Here’s how I’ve used leftovers or built a meal around it:
- Serve them over rice for a fun twist on a rice bowl.
- Stuff them into mini hoagie rolls like sliders.
- Dice leftovers into scrambled eggs for a savory-sweet breakfast.
- Serve with mac and cheese and green beans for an easy dinner.
❗ Common Mistakes
- Using too much jelly: Stick to the 1:1 ratio so it doesn’t get too sweet.
- Not stirring halfway through: You want everything evenly coated.
- Cooking too long on HIGH: It can burn or dry them out.
- Choosing a BBQ sauce with strong vinegar flavor: It can clash with the grape jelly.
🥄 Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Silicone spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups
- Small mixing bowls
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Grape Jelly Swap: Try apricot preserves or cranberry sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- BBQ Sauce: Use a hickory or spicy version for more flavor.
- Vegan: Use plant-based cocktail sausages (they’re out there!).
⏰ Make-Ahead Tips
- Mix the jelly and BBQ sauce the night before and refrigerate.
- Fully cook and reheat in the crockpot the next day on WARM.
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Add Little Smokies to Crockpot
Pour the little smokies into the crockpot in an even layer.
Step 2: Mix Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together 1 cup grape jelly and 1 cup BBQ sauce until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Little Smokies
Pour the mixed sauce evenly over the smokies in the crockpot.
Step 4: Cook Until Heated Through
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or on HIGH for 1–1.5 hours, stirring halfway through.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once hot and coated in glaze, serve directly from the slow cooker with toothpicks.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
- You can also freeze them! Just thaw overnight and reheat in the crockpot on LOW.
🍽️ What to Serve With
- Toothpicks for easy grabbing
- Mac & cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- Hawaiian rolls
- Coleslaw
- Baked beans
❓ FAQ
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger crockpot. Cooking time stays about the same.
Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?
Absolutely. Just make sure it’s thick and balanced (not too vinegary).
Can I use turkey or beef smokies?
Yes. Any kind of little smokie works great here.
Do I have to stir during cooking?
Not absolutely necessary, but helps coat everything evenly.
🥳 Let’s Wrap It Up
This recipe is one of those “why didn’t I make this sooner?!” kind of dishes. It’s the easiest appetizer ever, but it tastes like you planned it days in advance. Try it out next time you need something quick, easy, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Don’t forget to drop a comment below if you made it, tweaked it, or have a question—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
