Grape Jelly Lil Smokies
Imagine sweet-and-savory cocktail sausages simmering in a slow cooker with grape jelly—this easy recipe turns Lil Smokies into the ultimate no-fuss appetizer for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 14-ounce jar grape jelly I love Smucker’s Natural or Welch’s
- 1 12-ounce package Lil Smokies cocktail sausages look for all-pork or turkey-based
- 1/2 cup chili sauce Heinz or French’s work well
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar adds a tangy pop; optional
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or more for extra kick
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish—optional
Instructions
- In your slow cooker, pour the entire jar of grape jelly and add chili sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy—no jelly lumps!
- Sprinkle in the apple cider vinegar and red pepper flakes. Give it another swirl; you’ll see the flecks of red dancing in the purple sauce.
- Gently place the Lil Smokies into the slow cooker, folding them into the grape jelly glaze so each sausage is coated.
- Cover and set to LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1–1½ hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the sausages are heated through.
- Every hour, give it a quick stir—this helps the cocktail sausages absorb that sweet-savory magic.
- Transfer to a warming tray or keep it on the slow cooker’s WARM setting. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color, then serve with toothpicks.
Notes
• Grape Jelly: Go for one with real fruit juice and fewer additives. • Lil Smokies: Nitrate-free or turkey versions make it slightly healthier. • Chili Sauce: Balances the sweetness; swap for sriracha if you like it spicy. • Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps cut through the richness—feel free to skip if you’re sweet-tooth only.
Nutrition
Calories: 210kcal
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