Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are a tasty party treat! These little sausages are cooked in a sweet and tangy cranberry BBQ sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for game day or family gatherings, they disappear fast! I always keep toothpicks handy for easy snacking. Who can resist those tiny flavor bombs? 😂
Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies Sausages: These tiny sausages are the star of the dish. You can find beef, pork, or turkey versions. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausages work well!
Cranberry Sauce: I like using whole berry cranberry sauce for added texture, but jellied cranberry sauce will give you a smoother sauce. If you’re out of cranberry sauce, you can substitute with a fruit preserve like cherry or raspberry!
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite brand is the way to go! I recommend a sweet and tangy style for balance. If you prefer a smoky taste, you might try a hickory-flavored BBQ sauce.
Dijon Mustard: While optional, I love the extra flavor it adds. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard or even a splash of hot sauce can spruce it up!
How Can I Make Sure My Sauce is Perfectly Thickened?
Getting your sauce just right is key! After adding the Little Smokies, keep the heat low so the sauce doesn’t burn. Stir occasionally to help it thicken evenly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved during the initial mixing of sauces.
- Monitor the heat; too high can scorch the sauce.
- If it thickens too much, a splash of water can loosen it up.
Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (14 oz) package Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have delicious Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies ready in just about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, mix together the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), Worcestershire sauce (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are combined nicely.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep stirring occasionally for about 3-5 minutes until the brown sugar has fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth and cohesive.
3. Add the Little Smokies:
Add the Little Smokies to the saucepan. Gently stir them until they are completely coated with the delicious cranberry BBQ sauce.
4. Heat Through:
Lower the heat to low and let the sausages simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This allows the Little Smokies to heat through and the sauce to thicken while clinging to the sausages.
5. Finish Cooking:
Once the sauce looks rich and sticky and the Little Smokies are fully heated, remove the pot from the heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies to a serving bowl. Serve them warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. Get ready for your guests to devour them!
Enjoy these sweet, tangy, and savory delights—they’re perfect for parties, game days, and any gathering where tasty appetizers are needed!
Can I Use Fresh Sausages Instead of Little Smokies?
Absolutely! You can use sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa as substitutes. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time to ensure they are heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and add the Little Smokies a few hours in advance. Keep them in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop prior to serving. They’ll taste just as delicious!
Is This Recipe Spicy?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce if you want some heat. Adjust according to your taste preferences! Enjoy!
