You need something warm, easy, and guaranteed to disappear. This is the kind of recipe you throw together without measuring perfectly and somehow everyone asks for it anyway.

It is sweet, saucy, and forgiving. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or those moments when you just need food to show up and do its job.

Who This Recipe Is For

Anyone bringing a dish to a party with limited time
People who want something comforting and crowd pleasing
Hosts who need a set it and forget it appetizer
Families who want an easy win

Who This Recipe Is NOT For

Anyone looking for a low sugar appetizer
Folks who dislike sweet and savory flavors together

What You’ll End Up With

A warm, sticky, sweet and savory crockpot appetizer that works as a drive by snack or an easy party dish. It stays warm, travels well, and disappears fast.

Ingredients

To get started making this recipe, you’ll first want to gather all your ingredients first.

Here is what you’ll need:

2 packages

Lil Smokies cocktail sausages

1 bag

Frozen beef meatballs

2 bottles

Kraft Original BBQ sauce

2 cups

Apricot Preserves

1/2 cup

Water

Before You Start

No prep required beyond opening packages
Frozen meatballs go in straight from the freezer
Add some of the water to the BBQ sauce bottles, and shake to get all of the BBQ sauce out
This recipe works best in a standard slow cooker

Instructions – How to make BBQ Apricot Crockpot Lil Smokies and Meatballs

In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apricot preserves, and water until smooth.
Pour the sauce mixture into the crockpot.
Add the lil smokies and frozen meatballs.
Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
Cook on high for 1 hour or low for 3 hours, stirring once if possible.

Find the measurements and full recipe below!

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Extra Notes

If the sauce feels too thick, add a small splash of water and stir.
If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. You can assemble everything in the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, place it in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions.

Can I swap apricot preserves for grape jelly?

You can, but the flavor will be sweeter and more traditional. Apricot jam gives a slightly more balanced sweet and savory flavor.

Why is mine watery?

BBQ sauce brands vary. Add water a little at a time until it reaches the consistency you like.

Easy Variations

Use turkey meatballs instead of beef
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for balance
Stir in a spoonful of mustard for extra depth

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the microwave or slow cooker until warmed through
Stir before serving to redistribute the sauce

This is the kind of recipe that does not need perfection. Dump it in, let it cook, and serve it warm. If people are fed and happy, you did it right.

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