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The Magical Slow Cooker » Recipes » Appetizers » Grape Jelly Little Smokies

Grape Jelly Little Smokies

by Sarah Olson on March 7, 2022 | Updated December 19, 2022 7 Comments

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2 images of little smokies with text overlay for pinterest
2 images of grape jelly smokies with ingredients labels.
collage of grape jelly smokies with text overlay for pinterest

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.

grape jelly and chili sauce little smokies in slow cooker, cooked

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.

ingredients for little smokies, grape jelly, chili sauce on table

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, these taste like mini smoked sausages.
  • 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

2 image collage on how to assemble grape jelly lit'l smokies

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).

grape jelly little smokies in crockpot

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.
grape jelly chili sauce meatballs on spoon

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

Can these be cooked on the stovetop?

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.

Will the jelly make the smokies too sweet?

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.

How to store and reheat?

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.

Can I use hot dogs instead?

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.

Can I use ketchup or barbecue sauce instead?

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).

little smokies cooked in white bowl

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grape jelly little smokies in crockpot

Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Little Smokies Recipe

5 from 9 votes
A perfect appetizer for any occasion. The sweet and tangy sauce goes along with juicy little smokies. Serve alongside little plates and toothpicks for your guests.
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Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 15
Calories: 277kcal
Author: Sarah Olson

Equipment Needed:

  • Slow Cooker – 4 quart or larger

Ingredients:

  • 28 oz. Lit'l Smokies two 14-oz. packages (I use pork and chicken)
  • 18 oz. Concord grape jelly
  • 12 oz. chili sauce
US Customary – Metric

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!
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Recipe Notes:

Can I cook these on the stove-top?
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.
How to store and reheat?
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.
Can I use hotdogs?
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.
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.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 855mg | Potassium: 202mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 154IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.

Made this recipe?I want to see your photos! Tag me on Instagram @themagicalslowcooker

More Easy Appetizer Recipes

  • Slow Cooker Apple Butter Little Smokies
  • Slow Cooker Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
  • Slow Cooker BBQ Little Smokies
  • Slow Cooker Cranberry Meatballs
  • Slow Cooker Spinach Dip {with or without artichokes}
  • Slow Cooker Bourbon Hot Dogs
  • Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili
  • Slow Cooker Taco Dip

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    Filed Under: Appetizers

    Comments

    1. Marty says

      December 25, 2022 at 4:00 pm

      I used three packages of smokies well drained in a colander. I used 12 oz of Chile sauce and 12 oz of grape jelly. The sauce was runny. The sauce was too tangy for me. Next time I’m going to use a different brand of sauce. All I could get was the store brand, everything else was sold out.

      Reply
    2. Joyce says

      December 12, 2022 at 9:20 am

      Is it ok to substitute grape jam for grape jelly?

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        December 12, 2022 at 10:01 am

        Yes, grape jam will work great.

        Reply
    3. Joni says

      November 23, 2022 at 4:54 pm

      I have made these in my crockpot for years & the sauce became thick enough to stick to the lil smokies. The last couple of times, it has not thickened up & is so runny it doesn’t cling to the smokies at all. Very disappointing. I don’t know what has changed. I always drain my smokies well out of their packaging. Any ideas?

      Reply
      • DS says

        December 4, 2022 at 11:34 am

        Too much jelly. Need equal parts jelly to chili sauce

        Reply
    4. Anonymous says

      September 26, 2022 at 12:11 am

      It’s supposed to be 12 oz of grape jelly, not 18 oz!

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        September 26, 2022 at 7:36 am

        They don’t make 12 oz. jars of grape jelly where I live (any where). You can use 12 ounces if you choose though.

        Reply

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