Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are tiny sausages coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes every bite burst with flavor! Perfect for parties, they’re super easy to make.
These little bites are always a hit, especially when you need a quick snack. I like to serve them with toothpicks—makes reaching for seconds way too easy! 🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Little Smokies Sausages: These are the star of the dish! If you can’t find the brand you like, feel free to use any small cocktail sausages—turkey or chicken sausages can also work well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh twist. Just don’t leave out the sweetness!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. Sweet or smoky varieties are perfect. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for no-sugar-added sauces or make a simple homemade version.
Honey: This adds a hint of sweetness. If you’re vegan or need an alternative, maple syrup works just as well. You can also skip this if you prefer a tangier flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This is optional, but it gives a savory depth to the sauce. For a vegetarian version, look for vegan Worcestershire alternatives.
How Do I Get a Nice Sauce Consistency?
Getting that perfect sauce consistency is key to a great dish. Start by mixing the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce thoroughly. The combination will thicken as it cooks. Here’s how to ensure a great result:
- Use medium heat for simmering. Too high and it can burn; too low and it may not thicken.
- Watch the cooking time. About 15-20 minutes is ideal on the stovetop. For the slow cooker, 1-2 hours should do.
- If the sauce is too thin, let it cook a bit longer, stirring occasionally. For a thicker sauce, you can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
Enjoy making your Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies! They’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (14 oz) packages of Little Smokies sausages
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- A pinch of black pepper
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook on the stovetop or 1-2 hours in the slow cooker. Perfect for a quick party appetizer or a cozy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Sauces:
Start by getting a large skillet or slow cooker ready. In it, combine the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce. Use a spoon to stir until it’s well blended—this is where the magic begins!
2. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like a bit of sweetness, pour in the honey and Worcestershire sauce now. It adds a nice flavor boost! Then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper to season the mix just right.
3. Add the Little Smokies:
Next, add the Little Smokies sausages. Make sure every sausage gets covered with that delicious sauce. It’s going to taste amazing!
4. Cook it Up:
For the stovetop method, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and watch as the sauce thickens and the flavors deepen. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for 1-2 hours, stirring now and then.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sauce is thick and the Little Smokies are heated through, it’s time to serve! Transfer them to a nice serving dish. For a pop of color, feel free to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you’d like.
6. Snack Time!
Serve them warm and don’t forget the toothpicks! They’re perfect for grabbing and enjoying in just one bite. Get ready for compliments!
Enjoy your savory, sweet, and tangy Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! While Little Smokies are traditional, you can use any small cocktail or bite-sized sausages. Turkey or chicken sausages are great alternatives for a lighter option.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the sausages beforehand! Just store them in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat on low in a skillet or microwave before serving to ensure they’re warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before enjoying them again!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet flavor, feel free to reduce or omit the honey. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more Worcestershire sauce or a splash of vinegar for tang.