Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are a fun and tasty snack! These little sausage bites are cooked in a sweet and tangy cranberry BBQ sauce that makes them super delicious.
Perfect for parties or game days, everyone goes for seconds (and thirds!). I love putting mine in a slow cooker—just toss them in, and they are ready to enjoy while I mingle!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies: These small sausages are the star! If you’re looking for a healthier version, try turkey or chicken smokies. They have a similar size but often a lighter flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce. If you want a fresher taste, consider using homemade cranberry sauce. You can also substitute cranberry sauce with pomegranate sauce for a different twist!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, tangy, or smoky. If you want to avoid added sugars, opt for a low-sugar version or even a spicy sauce for a kick!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to the mix. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup, which will give a nice flavor. For a sugar-free option, use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
Dijon Mustard: This provides a bit of tanginess. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works too, although it will change the flavor slightly. For a different spice, try a spicy brown mustard.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
Achieving the right sauce consistency is key to these Little Smokies. Start by mixing your cranberry and BBQ sauces well; this is your base. The addition of brown sugar thickens it up as it cooks.
- Cook the mixture on low heat to allow the flavors to blend without burning.
- If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it thickens.
- Keep tasting! Adjust with more sugar or mustard for balance.
A slow cooker is great for keeping the sausages warm and waiting for guests to arrive without overcooking. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home!
How to Make Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 packages (14 oz each) Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-30 minutes (or 2-3 hours in a slow cooker) to cook, depending on your method. It’s a quick and easy recipe that you can set and forget, making it perfect for get-togethers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together well until you have a smooth and consistent sauce.
2. Coat the Smokies:
Add the Little Smokies sausages to the bowl with the sauce. Toss them around until they are completely coated with the sauce mixture. Make sure every sausage is covered in that delicious goodness!
3. Cooking Time!
Now, transfer the coated sausages and sauce into a slow cooker or a large skillet. If using a slow cooker, set it to low and let cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. If you choose the stovetop method, heat over medium-low and cook, stirring frequently until the sausages are heated through and the sauce thickens, which will take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Taste Test:
Once the sausages are fully cooked, give the mixture a taste. If you feel it needs adjusting, feel free to add a pinch more of brown sugar, mustard, or even a dash of salt!
5. Serve the Smokies:
Carefully transfer the Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies into a serving bowl. If you’d like, garnish with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary or thyme to add a festive touch.
6. Enjoy!
These smoky, sweet sausage bites are best served warm. They make for a fantastic appetizer or party snack—you’ll be sure to impress your guests!
Enjoy the fun flavors of this perfect holiday or game day treat!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Little Smokies with turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter option. You could also try using smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and coat the sausages a day ahead. Just store the mixture in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. When ready to serve, heat in the slow cooker or stovetop as directed.
What Should I Serve with Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies?
These little smokies pair perfectly with toothpicks for easy snacking, but you can also serve them alongside chips, mini pretzels, or a fresh veggie platter to balance out the richness!
