These Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are a fun and tasty treat! Made with juicy little sausages coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for parties or game days.
Honestly, who can resist these bite-sized goodies? They disappear fast at my house! I love serving them with toothpicks so everyone can grab a few easily—perfect for sharing and snacking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These bite-sized sausages are a must in this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken smokies work well too. Alternatively, vegetarian or vegan sausage can substitute for a meat-free version!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher taste, or canned for convenience. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, consider using a cranberry relish instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce, as it adds a lot of flavor! You can also make your own, using tomato sauce, molasses, and spices if you’re feeling adventurous. For a spicy twist, look for a chipotle-flavored BBQ sauce.
Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar and a bit of molasses for that rich flavor. Honey or maple syrup could also work in a pinch, just adjust to taste.
What’s the Key to Making the Perfect Saucy Smokies?
The key to delicious Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies is ensuring your sausages are fully coated in that sweet-tangy sauce. Use a large skillet or slow cooker for even heating and to avoid overcrowding the sausages. Here’s how to approach the cooking process:
- Mix all your sauce ingredients in the pan first. This helps the flavors meld together before adding the sausages.
- Simmer on medium heat for the skillet or low heat for the slow cooker to allow the flavors to develop without burning the sauce.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the sausages are evenly heated and coated. If making in a slow cooker, give it a little stir halfway through to mix things up!
After cooking, let them sit for a minute or two before serving. This helps the sauce cling to the sausages better. Enjoy your tasty treats!
How to Make Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) cocktail little smokies sausages
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook if you use a skillet. If you prefer a slow cooker, it will take about 2-3 hours on low. So, you can pick what works best for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet or slow cooker, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to blend all the ingredients together into a delicious sauce.
2. Add the Smokies:
Now, add the little smokies sausages to the sauce mixture. Make sure they are all coated nicely in that yummy sauce. It’s the secret to making them super flavorful!
3. Cook the Saucy Delights:
If you’re using a skillet, cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through, and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened—this will take about 15-20 minutes. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low and cook for 2-3 hours, stirring just a couple of times during cooking.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Once they are all nice and warm, transfer the saucy little smokies to a serving bowl. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh rosemary or chopped parsley on top to brighten things up!
5. Enjoy Your Hit Appetizer:
Serve them warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. These Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are perfect for parties or just a delicious snack at home. Watch them disappear!
Enjoy your sweet, tangy, and savory Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Mayonnaise-Based Sauces Instead of BBQ?
While the classic flavor comes from barbecue sauce, you can experiment with mayonnaise-based sauces for a creamier texture. However, this will change the flavor profile, so it may not replicate the sweet and tangy taste. If you try it, consider adding some spices or herbs for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, you can include hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture. Start with a little and taste as you go, adjusting to your spice preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or additional barbecue sauce when reheating.
Can I Double the Recipe for Larger Gatherings?
Yes, doubling the recipe is a great idea for larger groups! Just make sure you have a larger slow cooker or divide them into two pans if using a skillet. Be careful to maintain the same cooking times for even heating!
