Grape jelly little smokies are the easiest appetizer to make, with only three ingredients, and in a few hours, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser. Whenever I make this recipe, everyone asks for the recipe! They have no idea how simple it is.
Usually, at parties, you will see grape jelly meatballs served; instead, surprise your guests with this little smokie version! You won’t regret it.
What are little smokies?
Known as one of the most popular American side dishes and appetizer cuisines, little smokies are also known as cocktail sausages. They are much smaller than ordinary sausages and are perfect finger food.
You’ll almost always see these cocktail weenies served alongside a batch of toothpicks for easy picking and eating. Lil smokies come in various meat choices such as pork, beef, chicken, and turkey. These are the star of many super bowl parties.
Recipe Ingredients
- Little Smokies Cocktail Sausages – you’ll find a variety of brands in your local grocery store. I use pork and chicken from the Hillshire brand. You can also use the store-brand.
- Chili Sauce – made with ripened tomatoes, garlic, and spices. It’ll add the perfect flavor to this crockpot little smokies recipe. This is NOT a spicy sauce, it almost tastes like ketchup. You will find this near the ketchup and mustard at your grocery store.
- Grape Jelly – you can use any brand of grape jelly. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the tangy chili sauce.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step One – Combine all the ingredients into a bowl and mix thoroughly. Or you can add this directly to the slow cooker and save cleaning an extra bowl.
Step Two – Pour the grape jelly little smokies mixture into the crock pot and cook on your desired heat setting (LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2.5-3 hours).
Variations
- Barbecue Sauce – instead of chili sauce, replace it with BBQ sauce. These also come in a variety of flavors (spicy, tangy, honey, etc.). Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for more flavor.
- Spicy – if you’re looking to add some spice, consider adding sriracha, cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce. Or you can add one minced jalapeno to jazz up this recipe.
- Cranberry sauce – add one can of jellied cranberry sauce along with chili sauce and brown sugar to create a flavorful homemade base.
How to serve
- As an appetizer – Crockpot Grape Jelly Little Smokies are best served as an appetizer! Set out small plates next to your slow cooker and toothpicks for eating. Great for game days, birthdays, or even barbecues. You can’t go wrong with serving them right out of the crockpot alongside a cheese and cracker tray or a savory dip and spread of some kind.
- As the main course – Yes, some do eat these as the main course! I suggest a plain starchy side such as steamed white rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. A steamed green veggie or green salad will also even out your meal.
Recipe FAQs
If you don’t have a crockpot, you can put everything in a pot and cook them over medium-low to medium heat. You’ll need to stir it often to keep the sauce from sticking (and scorching). You can also cook these in the oven in a similar way.
Since this recipe only calls for a little more than a cup of grape jelly, it will not be overly sweet. The combination of chili sauce will help level out the taste.
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and place them in the fridge. They will last for up to four days. If you opt-in for the freezer, ensure they are completely cooled, placed in a freezer-safe bag (or container), then stored. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to reheat them, let them thaw in the fridge first. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Yes! Hot dogs are a GREAT choice if you prefer. Slice the hot dogs into thirds, cutting them on an angle. Hot dogs soak up the sauce nicely and do not get soggy in the crockpot.
You can use ketchup or barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce and still have a fantastic appetizer. Use about 1.5 cups of ketchup or barbecue sauce (or use a combination).
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Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Little Smokies Recipe
Equipment Needed:
Ingredients:
- 28 oz. Lit'l Smokies two 14-oz. packages (I use pork and chicken)
- 18 oz. Concord grape jelly
- 12 oz. chili sauce
Instructions:
- Drain the little smokies and place them in a medium-sized bowl. Add the chili sauce and grape jelly and stir. Or you can add everything to the slow cooker instead and stir.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH For 2.5-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with toothpicks for guest to eat the smokies with and enjoy!
Recipe Notes:
- Barbecue Sauce – instead of chili sauce, replace it with BBQ sauce. These also come in a variety of flavors (spicy, tangy, honey, etc.). Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for more flavor.
- Spicy – if you’re looking to add some spice, consider adding sriracha, cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce. Or you can add one minced jalapeno to jazz up this recipe.
- Cranberry sauce – add one can of jellied cranberry sauce along with chili sauce and brown sugar to create a flavorful homemade base.
Nutrition Information:
Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.
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