Crockpot Little Smokies

Crockpot Little Smokies: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

by

Let me tell you about the appetizer that’s saved me at countless game days and potlucks. These Crockpot Little Smokies have become my go-to party food, not just because they’re ridiculously easy, but because the bowl is always – and I mean always – empty by the end of the night. The first time I made them was for a last-minute Super Bowl party when my original appetizer plan flopped. Now people actually get disappointed if I show up without them! The best part? They take about 5 minutes to throw together, and your crockpot does all the work.

Simple But Perfect Ingredients

The Basics:

  • 2 packages (14 oz each) cocktail smokies (I prefer Hillshire Farm)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (dark or light, both work great)
  • 1 jar (12 oz) grape jelly (yes, really!)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (I use Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for kick

Let’s Get Cooking

  1. The Prep (5 mins, tops)
    • Open those packages of smokies and dump them in your crockpot
    • No need to cut them – they’re perfect as is
    • Give them a quick rinse if you want (I usually skip this)
  2. The Sauce Magic (5 mins)
    • In a bowl, whisk together your brown sugar, grape jelly, BBQ sauce, mustard, and Worcestershire
    • Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird – it’ll all meld together beautifully
    • Pour over the smokies
    • Give everything a good stir
  3. The Wait (which is the hardest part)
    • Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours
    • OR on HIGH for 2-3 hours if you’re in a hurry
    • Stir occasionally if you’re around, but no stress if you can’t
Crockpot Little Smokies

Questions People Always Ask

“Grape jelly, really?” Trust me on this one! It creates this amazing sticky-sweet glaze that’s absolutely perfect.

“Can I make these ahead?” You bet! They actually taste even better the next day.

“How many people does this feed?” Plan on about 8-10 smokies per person as an appetizer. This recipe serves about 15-20 people.

My Tried-and-True Tips

  • Don’t substitute the grape jelly – I’ve tried other jellies, and grape just works best
  • Add the red pepper flakes at the start if you want heat throughout, or at the end for a spicier kick
  • Keep them on the “WARM” setting during parties
  • If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or apple juice
  • Double the recipe for big crowds – trust me, they’ll disappear

Serving Ideas

Perfect Partners:

  • Toothpicks (obviously!)
  • Small plates or sturdy paper plates
  • Cold beer or fizzy drinks
  • Plenty of napkins
  • A side of pretzel bites or chips

Party Presentation:

  • Keep them in the crockpot for serving
  • Put toothpicks in a mason jar nearby
  • Have a small plate for used toothpicks
  • Keep backup sauce warm if doing a long party

One Last Thing…

Here’s what I love most about these Crockpot Little Smokies – they’re practically impossible to mess up. Seriously. I’ve forgotten about them for hours, accidentally doubled the BBQ sauce, even used the wrong kind of mustard once, and they still turned out great. They’re the perfect “throw it in and forget it” party food that always gets compliments.

And don’t be surprised when people start requesting “those amazing little sausages” at every gathering. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve shared this recipe! If you try them, I’d love to hear your tweaks – everyone seems to add their own special touch to make them their own!

P.S. Hide a few in the kitchen if you want leftovers. I’m not kidding – they vanish fast!

Leave a Comment