These easy crockpot meatballs and little smokies are a great appetizer recipe to feed a crowd. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or afternoon snacks, these tasty meatballs and Lilt’ smokies are slow cooked in grape jelly and barbecue sauce.
This recipe combines two of my all-time favorite appetizers into one super appetizer that no one can get enough of. I’ve been making meatballs and Lit’l smokies as appetizers for years, but I always made them separately. One day, I realized that my recipes for them both were so similar that I could and should make a dish that combined them. Let me tell you, I was so happy I did, and my family and friends were ecstatic. This delicious mix of meatballs and Lit’l smokies is always a hit no matter where I serve them, and I serve them everywhere. They’re the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion, from potlucks to after-school noms.
Crockpot Meatballs and Little Smokies
This delicious mashup of meatballs and Lit’l smokies has everything we love about both recipes combined into one. It starts with frozen meatballs and Lit’l Smokies. Then, I make a delicious, sweet, and zingy sauce of grape jelly, BBQ sauce, and jalapeños for a kick of extra flavor and heat. What I end up with is an appetizer that’s full of flavor, not work. It’s so easy and delicious, I’ve even been known to serve it over rice and make a super fun dinner out of it!
Why You’ll Love These Meatballs and Lit’l Smokies
- With meatballs and Lit’l smokies packed into one recipe, it’s the best of both appetizer worlds.
- It’s so easy to make, and it’s the perfect appetizer for parties, potlucks, game day, or a before-dinner treat.
- Everyone loves a hearty appetizer recipe.
Tips
- Be sure you buy pre-cooked frozen meatballs for this recipe.
- Although this recipe has a lot of sauce, it’s still important to spray your crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Variations
- You can use any variety of frozen meatballs for this recipe. Turkey meatballs or chicken meatballs. work well.
- Use your favorite flavor of BBQ sauce.
- Mix up the flavor profile of this recipe by using different jams and jellies.
- Use chili sauce in place of BBQ sauce.
- And, this can be made on the stovetop.
What to Serve with Crockpot Meatballs and Lit’l Smokies
These are delicious on their own as appetizers or as part of a larger appetizer table. However, they’re also great with other food as part of a larger meal if you like. Some great options to make a meal of these include:
- Rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Bread
- Potato salad
- Mac and cheese
- Baked potatoes
- Baked beans
- Any of your other favorite potluck dishes
Recipe FAQ
Can I use different types of Jelly?
Absolutely. The grape jelly is there to add sweetness. Use different jellies to make different, but no less delicious, flavors.
How long do you heat meatballs in the crockpot?
That depends on the specific recipe, but in general, meatballs are cooked on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
Should I thaw meatballs before putting them in the crockpot?
No. This recipe, and most crockpot meatball recipes, are made with unthawed meatballs in mind.
How long will leftover meatballs last in the fridge?
They’ll last for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can you freeze crockpot meatballs and little smokies?
You sure can. This recipe freezes very well and will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store these meatballs in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply place the meatballs in a saucepan on the stove top, cover, and heat over medium-low heat until heated through. You can also place them in your crockpot on high until heated through or simply heat them up in the microwave.
Crockpot Meatballs and Little Smokies Ingredients
It only takes a few simple ingredients to make this delicious recipe. You’ll find all of them at your local grocery store.
- Frozen meatballs
- Li’l smokies
- Grape jelly
- Barbecue sauce
- Jalapeño pepper
How to Make Crockpot Meatballs and Little Smokies
Making this recipe is ridiculously easy. It only takes a couple of steps. That’s it!
Step 1: Add Ingredients
Spray a 6-quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Then, add all the ingredients and stir.
Step 2: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Enjoy!
Try These Crockpot Meatballs and Little Smokies Today
You won’t find an easier, more delicious recipe than this one, you guys! 5 ingredients and 2 steps? I mean, the only thing easier would be buying the same thing at the grocery store. Give this one a try, and I know you’ll fall in love with the flavor and the TOTAL lack of work on your part. These crockpot meatballs and Lil Smokies are the best combination of flavor and ease you’ll ever try!
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Enjoy
Meatballs and Marinara – Tender, moist and delicious homemade meatballs along with a homemade marinara sauce for a classic combination in Italian cuisine. Great for meatball sandwiches, for spaghetti or as an appetizer.
Jalape̱o Cheese Bites РThese delicious cheese bites are loaded with flavor and are the perfect appetizer recipe for game day, family gatherings or a midday snack. Crunchy on the outside, ooey, gooey, cheesy on the inside.
Jalape̱o Popper Pigs in a Blanket РTwo classic appetizers in one delicious recipe: Jalape̱o Poppers and Pigs in a Blanket. An absolutely delicious treat that is requested often.
And, here are some delicious Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies, from Great Grub, Delicious Treats, that you will enjoy as well.
Crockpot Meatballs and Little Smokies
Ingredients
- 14 ounce frozen meatballs
- 14 ounce little smokies
- 18 ounce grape jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 jalapeno, stem, seeds removed, diced
Instructions
- Spray a 6 quart crock pot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Add all ingredients into the crockpot.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
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they are delicious thank you so much
Hi Jenn, we are so glad you enjoyed this recipe. Thank you for sharing. 🙂