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If you’re looking for a no-stress party snack that disappears faster than you can say “game day,” these Crockpot Little Smokies are about to become your new go-to. Sweet, smoky, tangy, and ridiculously easy to make, this is the kind of recipe that always gets asked for at potlucks and holiday spreads.

Using just a few ingredients (that you probably already have), this Crockpot Little Smokies recipe comes together in minutes and simmers in the slow cooker until they’re saucy and full of flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a crowd or just need an easy appetizer that feels fun and nostalgic, these bite-sized sausages hit the mark every time. I’ve made these for everything from movie nights to family birthdays, and they never let me down.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Little Smokies

The first time I made these, I thought, “Is it really this easy?” Yep. Dump, stir, slow cook, done. And the flavor? So good it’s kinda embarrassing how many I’ve eaten straight from the Crockpot.

Here’s why they’re always a hit:

  • Super easy – Just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work.
  • Big flavor – Smoky sausages, sweet BBQ sauce, and a tangy kick of grape jelly? Don’t knock it till you try it.
  • Crowd-friendly – Perfect for parties, game day, or holiday buffets. Always the first thing to go!
  • Make-ahead magic – Set it and forget it. You can even prep it hours ahead.
  • Kid-approved – Sweet, savory, and bite-sized, what’s not to love?
Crockpot Little Smokies - EVRYFOODIE
Crockpot Little Smokies EVRYFOODIE

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and why each one works so well:

  • Little Smokies – These mini smoked sausages are fully cooked and ready to soak up all the sauce. You can usually find them in the refrigerated meat section.
  • BBQ Sauce – Go for a brand you love! A sweeter sauce works great here to balance the smokiness.
  • Grape Jelly – Sounds strange, tastes amazing. It melts into the BBQ sauce and gives it that irresistible sticky-sweet glaze.
  • Optional Add-ins – Some folks toss in a dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce for a bolder flavor twist.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix things up or need to adjust for dietary needs? Here’s how:

  • Spicy kick – Add a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes to bring the heat.
  • Low-sugar option – Use a sugar-free jelly and BBQ sauce to cut back on sweetness.
  • Meat swap – Try turkey Little Smokies for a lighter take.
  • Flavor twist – Swap grape jelly for apricot preserves or cranberry sauce around the holidays.

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Add everything to the Crockpot

Place the Little Smokies in your slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce and grape jelly right on top.

Step 2: Stir to coat

Give everything a quick stir until the sausages are fully coated in the sauce. Don’t worry if the jelly looks chunky, it’ll melt down as it cooks.

Crockpot Little Smokies - EVRYFOODIE

Step 3: Slow cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or until the sausages are heated through and the sauce is smooth and bubbling.

Step 4: Serve warm

Switch to the WARM setting and keep them hot during the party. Stick in some toothpicks and you’re good to go!

A Few Helpful Tips

  • Don’t stress if the sauce looks separated at first—it all melts together beautifully.
  • No Crockpot? You can simmer everything in a saucepan on the stove over low heat.
  • Double the batch if you’re feeding a bigger crowd. It scales up easily.
  • Add a liner to your Crockpot for super easy cleanup afterward.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These are perfect for a snack table, but here’s how to round them out:

  • Game day snack board – Serve alongside sliders, chips, and veggie sticks.
  • Holiday buffet – Pair with meatballs, deviled eggs, or spinach dip.
  • Make it a meal – Spoon over rice or mashed potatoes for an easy weeknight dinner twist.
  • Top with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little extra flair.

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips

  • To store – Let leftovers cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • To reheat – Warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
  • To freeze – Not ideal, as the sauce can separate when thawed, but it works in a pinch. Reheat low and slow to help the sauce come back together.

FAQ

Absolutely! Cook them, cool them down, and reheat in the Crockpot on LOW or WARM before serving.

Any style works, but sweet and tangy sauces really shine in this recipe. I usually go with a classic hickory or honey BBQ.

Nope! Apricot, cranberry, or even chili sauce are all great swaps, depending on the flavor you want.

They’re best when kept on WARM in the Crockpot during your event. Aim for no more than 2 hours at room temp if unplugged.

Enjoying This Crockpot Little Smokies

These Crockpot Little Smokies have become my “don’t think, just make” appetizer. Especially when the holidays hit and the to-do list grows—this recipe always delivers max flavor with zero fuss. Whether it’s a casual potluck, family movie night, or full-blown party spread, these little bites bring everyone back for seconds (and thirds). They’re nostalgic, tasty, and just plain fun to eat.

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Crockpot Little Smokies: Sweet, Tangy Addictions

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  • Author: Jennifer West
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings
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Description

If you’re looking for the ultimate throw-and-go party appetizer (or even a fun, low-effort weeknight dinner), Crockpot Little Smokies are always a win. These bite-sized cocktail sausages get slow-cooked in a rich, sticky BBQ and brown sugar sauce that’s equal parts sweet, tangy, and just a tiny bit spicy. Toss everything in your slow cooker, give it a stir, and walk away, yes, it’s that easy.

Ingredients

500 grams little smokies (about 1 lb or 45 smokies)

1 cup barbecue sauce

½ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon ground mustard1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Grab a 2 to 3-quart slow cooker, toss in all the ingredients, and give everything a good stir to coat the sausages in that sweet and tangy sauce.
  2. Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, until the smokies are warmed through and the sauce is bubbling and glossy.
  3. Before serving, give it a quick taste and adjust as needed, add a little more brown sugar for extra sweetness or a dash more red pepper flakes if you want a bit more heat.
  4. Serve ’em up with toothpicks for an easy party appetizer, or scoop into bowls as a fun main dish. However you dish them out, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Equipment

Notes

Tip: If you like your smokies coated in a thicker, stickier sauce (yes, please!), stir 1 teaspoon of cornstarch into the ingredients at the beginning. It’ll help the sauce thicken up perfectly as it cooks.

How to Store Leftovers: Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store in the fridge in an airtight container for 3–5 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just pop them in the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop until hot. These also freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove or microwave as usual.

Whether you’re planning ahead or just saving a few for later, these reheat like a dream!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Appetizer or Main Dish
  • Method: Crockpot
  • Cuisine: American

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Jennifer West Senior Recipe Editor
As a Senior Recipe Editor, Jennifer West shares flavorful and easy meal recipes with a creative twist,. Perfect for busy families and everyday home cooks.
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