Little smokies in grape jelly are one of those appetizers I make again and again because they're incredibly reliable, take just minutes to put together, and always disappear at parties. I've served this recipe for everything from holiday gatherings to football Sundays, and it's one of those classic slow cooker appetizers that people always ask about.
As someone who has spent years making and testing easy family recipes, I know that the best appetizers don't have to be complicated. This is the recipe I make when I want something I know will disappear, stay warm in the slow cooker, and let me spend more time enjoying the party instead of cooking.
They fit right into any gathering menu - whether it’s a big game spread, a holiday buffet, or a casual get-together. They’re also a great match for other crowd-pleasers like Pigs in a Blanket, Black Bean and Corn Salsa, or my Easy Meatballs in Sauce. Here's a big list of appetizer recipes on my Game Day Appetizers post!
Table of contents
Why I Love This Little Smokies Recipe
- Perfect for entertaining: I can make these ahead of time and keep them warm in the slow cooker for hours. That means less time in the kitchen and more time visiting with family and friends.
- Consistently crowd-pleasing: I've served these little smokies at holiday parties, football parties, and family gatherings. They're one of those appetizers that people keep coming back for until the slow cooker is empty.
- Reliable results: I've tested this recipe many times over the years, so I know the sauce develops the perfect balance of sweet and savory while coating every little smokie.
- Minimal hands-on time: Just a few minutes of prep is all it takes before the slow cooker takes over. It's one of my favorite appetizers to make when I'm hosting.
- Easy to double: Whether you're feeding a small group or a large crowd, this recipe scales beautifully. I often make a double batch because there are rarely leftovers
Ingredients for Little Smokies Recipe with Jelly
- Little Smokies smoked sausages (about 28 oz). They are in the refrigerated section of the store. (aka Lit'l Smokies, or lil smokies
- Grape Jelly - I don't worry about the brand!
- Heinz Chili Sauce - Buy this one! It is consistent and is flavorful but not hot (spicy)
Flavor Tip - If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more grape jelly. For a tangier flavor, increase the chili sauce. It’s easy to adjust until the sauce tastes just right.
How to Make Little Smokies with Jelly
Step 1
Add the Little Smokies to your slow cooker.
Step 2
Pour the grape jelly and chili sauce over the sausages. Stir to coat.
Step 3
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally.
Tips & FAQs
Yes! Simmer everything together on low for about 30 minutes, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly.
Yes, they freeze surprisingly well. Let the smokies cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in your slow cooker on low until warmed through.
Definitely. Mix the sauce ingredients and sausages together in the slow cooker insert (or a bowl) and refrigerate overnight. Pop the insert back in the cooker the next day and turn it on - done!
Yes, I often do if it's a big or hungry crowd! Just use a large slow cooker and stir once or twice to make sure all the sausages are coated evenly.
Storage
- Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove
- These freeze surprisingly well. Let the smokies cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in your slow cooker on low until warmed through.
Printable Recipe
Little Smokies Recipe (With Grape Jelly)
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 Packages Lil Smokies Smoked Sausages about 28 oz total
- 1 Cup Grape Jelly your favorite brand
- 1 Cup Heinz Chili Sauce or use the whole bottle.
Use this brand so you know you are getting a flavorful chili that isn't too spicy!
- Toothpicks are great to have available.
Instructions
- Add the Little Smokies to your slow cooker.
- Pour the Grape Jelly and chili sauce mixtures over the sausages. Stir until everything is coated evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Once heated through, turn the slow cooker to warm so they stay perfectly saucy for serving.
Notes
- You can easily adjust the sauce flavor. Add a little more grape jelly if you like it less spicy, or extra chili sauce for more tang and spice.
- These crock pot Little Smokies stay warm for hours - just keep your slow cooker on the warm setting during your party or game day spread.
- To make ahead, combine everything in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day.
- Refrigerator: Can be put in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Let the grape jelly and chili sauce smokies cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low in your slow cooker or stovetop until warmed through.
- Leftovers are great the next day -try serving them over rice or mashed potatoes for an easy quick meal.
- This recipe makes about 8-12 servings, depending on how many appetizers you’re offering.
Nutrition (estimate)
Please pin to your Pinterest account.
Jane Robinson
These are so tasty. And easy to make. Crockpots are the best.