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If you're looking for the easiest party appetizer that everyone loves, these Slow Cooker BBQ Lil Smokies are the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no prep work, this recipe delivers sweet, smoky, tangy little sausages that disappear within minutes at every gathering.

Whether you're hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, potluck, or family movie night, these cocktail sausages stay warm in the slow cooker so guests can serve themselves throughout the event. They're one of my favorite “set it and forget it” appetizers because they require less than five minutes of hands-on time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe for BBQ Lil Smokies

• Only 3 simple ingredients
• Ready with just a few minutes of prep
• Perfect for parties and potlucks
• Keeps warm for hours in the slow cooker
• Sweet, smoky, and savory flavor everyone enjoys
• Great make-ahead appetizer

Ingredients You'll Need for BBQ Lil Smokies

• 2 (14-ounce) packages Lil' Smokies cocktail sausages
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• ½ cup grape jelly

Optional Add-Ins for BBQ Lil Smokies

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar for extra sweetness

How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Lil' Smokies

Step 1

Add the Lil' Smokies to your slow cooker.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and grape jelly until well combined.

Step 3

Pour the sauce over the sausages and stir until they're evenly coated.

Step 4

Cover and cook:

• Low: 2–3 hours
• High: 1–2 hours

Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.

Step 5

Once hot and bubbly, switch the slow cooker to the Warm setting and serve with toothpicks.

Tips for the Best BBQ Lil' Smokies

• Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor.
• Sweet Baby Ray's makes a wonderfully rich and slightly smoky version.
• Stir occasionally so every sausage stays coated.
• If the sauce becomes too thick after several hours, stir in a splash of water.
• Double the recipe for large parties.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! Allow the sausages to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day ahead and refrigerate. Reheat in the slow cooker before serving.

What barbecue sauce works best?

Use your family's favorite. Sweet, smoky, spicy, or honey barbecue sauces all work beautifully.

Can I cook them longer?

Yes. Once they're heated through, switch the slow cooker to Warm. They can stay warm for several hours without drying out.

Can I make these without grape jelly?

Yes! Try:

• Apricot preserves
• Cranberry sauce
• Honey
• Peach preserves
• Apple jelly

Each creates a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.

Do I have to brown the sausages first?

No. Lil' Smokies are fully cooked, so they simply need to be heated through while absorbing the sauce.

Pro Tips

• Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray for easier cleanup.
• Use a small (2–4 quart) slow cooker for best results.
• Keep toothpicks nearby for easy serving.
• Stir every hour if serving over an extended period.
• Make a double batch—you'll be surprised how quickly these disappear!

Check out these other delicious appetizers

• Everything Seasoned Cocktail Weenies
• Cranberry BBQ Weenies
• Everything Bagel Ham and Cheese Sliders