Crockpot Lil Smokies with Grape Jelly & BBQ Sauce

This crockpot lil smokies recipe is so simple! You only need three ingredients and your slow cooker to whip these up for your next game day or pot luck party. The combination of the grape jelly and barbecue sauce makes the perfect sweet and sour sauce that is irresistible. 

Looking for the easiest appetizer recipe for all those family gatherings you have coming up? Look no further than crockpot lil smokies in grape jelly and barbecue sauce.

This recipe is a classic and for good reason. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

When we make it for our kids' birthday parties, we always get rave reviews. 

Now, I know what you're thinking. Grape jelly? In a crockpot recipe? But hear me out. The sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Plus, it's an easy way to impress your guests. Just don't tell them the secret ingredient until after they've tried it.

And the best part? This recipe couldn't be simpler. All you need are a few basic ingredients, a crockpot, and a few hours of patience while it cooks.

You can even prep everything ahead of time, so all you have to do is throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its thing.

So whether it's football season and you're getting together for a super bowl party or just looking for a delicious snack to enjoy on a lazy Sunday afternoon, give these crockpot lil smokies a try.

We promise you won't be disappointed. Just be warned, they're so addictive, you might want to make a double batch!

Try my popular Ground Beef Queso dip too!

Why you'll love it

• Easy crockpot/slow cooker with minimal prep time
• Kid and family friendly flavor
• Party food that's a real crowd pleaser that uses simple ingredients 

Ingredients

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for precise amounts and printable recipe card.

Cocktail sausages - these are knows as little smokies or lil' smokies. These mini sausages are the perfect finger (or toothpick) food. We used Hillshire Farm brand, but you can use whatever is available at your grocery store. You can use cut up hot dogs as well, or sausages that have been sliced an inch or two thick. Just be sure to use pre-cooked sausage for this recipe. 

Grape jelly - (or grape jam) this is the classic ingredient, but you can try apricot preserves, orange marmalade, cranberry sauce, or even jalapeño jelly if you're into spice. Apple jelly, peach preserves, and red current are also some great ways to experiment with the flavor.

Barbecue sauce - using a prepared sauce makes this recipe really easy to make. BBQ sauces vary quite a bit in taste. You might like something sweet like Sweet Baby Rays, or you might like something tangy. Another great prepared option is Heinz Chili Sauce, and ketchup also works too!

If you'd like to add some additional flavors to your sauce, try a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, a dash or two of hot sauce, and a tablespoon or two of dark brown sugar. 

​Equipment

• Crockpot/slow cooker
• Meat thermometer
• Crockpot liners
• Airtight container

How to make crockpot lil smokies

STEP ONE: Combine grape jelly and bbq sauce in the bottom of the crockpot. Combine well.

STEP TWO: Add lil smokies and stir them into the sauce until well coated. 

STEP THREE: Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until sausages are hot. Stir as needed.

Kitchen tips

It is recommended to heat the cocktail wieners to 165 degrees F.

How to store and reheat

Keep your leftovers in the refrigerator in an air tight container for up to one week. 

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat in the crockpot or on the stove top.

More delicious appetizers

• Crockpot Cranberry Meatballs
• Instant Pot Grape Jelly Meatballs
• Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
• Holiday Cheese Ball

📖 Recipe