These Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are the perfect party snack! Juicy little sausages are cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made from cranberry and BBQ sauce—so tasty!
They’re super easy to make and always a hit at gatherings! You can whip them up in no time and watch them disappear faster than you can say “yum!” 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These small sausages are the star of the dish! If you can’t find little smokies, try using sliced regular sausages or kielbasa. They will add a different flavor but will still be delicious.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either jellied or whole berry cranberry sauce. If you’re in a pinch, homemade cranberry sauce works too! If you want to cut down on sugar, look for a low-sugar version.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce will work just fine. If you prefer homemade, a simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices will do the trick. For a spicier kick, try a chipotle BBQ sauce!
Brown Sugar: This is optional. If you’re looking for alternatives, honey or maple syrup can add sweetness just as well. For a sugar-free option, use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon on hand, yellow mustard can work too, or simply skip it if you prefer a sweeter sauce!
How Do I Make the Sauce Perfectly Balanced?
Getting the sauce just right is key to a delicious dish. Start with the basic combination of cranberry and BBQ sauce, and taste as you go. Here’s how to achieve the perfect balance:
- Mix your cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce in equal parts—for sweet and tangy flavors that work together.
- As it cooks, taste the sauce. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar or honey.
- If the sauce is too sweet for your liking, a splash more mustard or a bit of vinegar can help balance it out.
- Don’t forget about the fresh cranberries! They add both texture and a nice tartness that cuts through the sweetness.
Remember, everyone’s taste preferences are different, so adjust according to your liking!
Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14 oz) package of little smokies (cocktail sausages)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (can be whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a touch of tang)
- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish and extra tartness)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a warm and tasty appetizer ready to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan or skillet, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Stir well until everything is blended nicely. This delicious mixture is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Add the Smokies:
Now, it’s time to add the little smokies! Place them into the sauce mixture and stir gently to coat each sausage evenly. You want every bite to be delicious!
3. Heat and Simmer:
Turn the heat to medium and cook until the mixture begins to bubble. Then, lower the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan.
4. Add Fresh Cranberries (Optional):
If you’re using fresh cranberries, toss them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will warm them up without making them mushy, adding extra tartness and a lovely pop of color!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly, it’s time to serve! Transfer the little smokies into a serving bowl. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top for a beautiful garnish.
Enjoy these sweet, tangy, and smoky little bites as the perfect party appetizer or snack! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Beef or Turkey Sausages Instead of Little Smokies?
Absolutely! While little smokies are classic for this recipe, you can use beef or turkey sausages. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces to mimic the small size of little smokies, and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To make these in a slow cooker, combine the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 2-3 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours. Stir occasionally, and enjoy a warm snack without much fuss!
What Can I Serve with Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies?
These little smokies pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy serving. You can also serve them alongside sliders, on a cheese platter, or along with crackers and veggies for a complete appetizer spread!
