Little smokies wrapped in grape jelly? It sounds unusual, but this sweet and savory appetizer is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! This simple recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a quick and easy weeknight snack. Let's dive into how to make this irresistible treat.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (14-ounce) package of Little Smokies sausages: These bite-sized sausages are the star of the show!
- 1 (12-ounce) jar of grape jelly: The sweetness of the grape jelly perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the sausages. Look for a good quality jelly for the best results.
- 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard (optional): Adding a touch of Dijon mustard adds a fantastic layer of complexity and tang. It's completely optional, but highly recommended!
Equipment:
- Slow cooker: This is the easiest way to make these little smokies, ensuring they're perfectly cooked and infused with the delicious jelly glaze.
- Mixing bowl (small): For combining the jelly and mustard (if using).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Combine the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, combine the grape jelly and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until the mustard is fully incorporated into the jelly.
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Add to the Slow Cooker: Place the little smokies in your slow cooker. Pour the grape jelly mixture over the sausages, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Cook on Low: Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the sausages are heated through and the jelly glaze has thickened slightly and become glossy. Stir gently halfway through to ensure even cooking and glazing.
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Serve and Enjoy!: Serve the little smokies warm, either directly from the slow cooker or transferred to a serving dish. They're delicious on their own or served with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up!: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the jelly mixture.
- Brown Sugar Boost: A tablespoon or two of brown sugar added to the jelly mixture will add a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Other Jelly Options: While grape jelly is classic, feel free to experiment with other fruit jellies like apricot or cherry. The sweetness and tartness will change the overall flavor profile.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the little smokies in the slow cooker ahead of time. Just keep them warm on the "warm" setting until ready to serve.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe is a winner because it's:
- Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make this perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.
- Delicious: The combination of sweet and savory flavors is irresistible.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with different spices or jellies to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at any gathering.
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By following this recipe and incorporating some of the suggested variations, you'll create a batch of irresistible Little Smokies with Grape Jelly that will leave everyone wanting more! Enjoy!
