If you’re looking for that perfect crowd-pleaser that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors all in one bite, this Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe is your new go-to. Picture juicy, tender little smokies simmered gently in a luscious blend of chili sauce and jellied cranberry sauce, creating that irresistible balance of smoky and fruity goodness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a casual party, or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your appetizer arsenal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each one packs a punch in flavor. The combination of sweet cranberry sauce, tangy chili sauce, and smoky sausages creates a harmony that’s impossible to resist.
- Beef little smokies: These bite-sized sausages provide a smoky, meaty base that’s perfect for slow cooking.
- Chili sauce: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to balance the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Jellied cranberry sauce: Brings a vibrant fruity sweetness and beautiful color to the dish.
How to Make Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Little Smokies
Begin by placing your beef little smokies right into the slow cooker. No need to thaw if they’re frozen, just arrange them evenly so they cook perfectly in the sauce.
Step 2: Mix the Sauces
In a medium bowl, whisk together the jar of chili sauce and the can of jellied cranberry sauce. This simple but flavorful combo is the magic that coats the smokies, infusing them with sweet, tangy richness.
Step 3: Combine and Slow Cook
Pour the sauce mixture over the little smokies in the slow cooker, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW. Let it cook for 2 to 4 hours—the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld and deepen.
How to Serve Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh, colorful touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions over the smokies just before serving. The pop of green contrasts beautifully with the rich red sauce and adds a subtle freshness that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
These bite-sized treats pair wonderfully with simple sides like crunchy crackers, tortilla chips, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier gathering, pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe in a festive crockpot on the buffet lets guests help themselves easily and keeps the dish warm. Alternatively, present them in a decorative serving bowl or with toothpicks on a platter for a polished appetizer at cocktail parties or holiday celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cranberry Little Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making them just as tasty—or even better—the next day.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these smokies later, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the smokies in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickened in the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Can I use different types of little smokies for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef little smokies are traditional, you can swap in pork or turkey versions depending on your preference. Each type adds its own unique flavor but will still taste wonderful with the cranberry and chili sauce blend.
Is it necessary to use the slow cooker, or can I make this on the stove?
You can make Cranberry Little Smokies on the stove by combining the ingredients in a saucepan and simmering on low for 30 to 45 minutes. Just stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
How spicy is this Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe?
This recipe has a pleasant mild tanginess with just a hint of spice from the chili sauce, making it approachable for most palates. Adjust the level of chili sauce or substitute with a milder variety if you prefer less heat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and little smokies a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated separately. When ready, combine everything in the slow cooker and warm on low until serving time.
What occasions are best for serving Cranberry Little Smokies?
This recipe is a fantastic choice for holiday parties, game days, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Its inviting flavors and easy prep make it a crowd favorite no matter the occasion.
Final Thoughts
I can honestly say that once you try this Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe, it will become a cherished favorite for any get-together or cozy night in. It’s a dish that brings smiles, comfort, and a delightful punch of flavor — all in one easy slow cooker recipe. So go ahead, whip it up, and watch everyone come back for seconds and thirds!
Print
Cranberry Little Smokies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cranberry Little Smokies are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring savory beef cocktail sausages simmered in a tangy blend of chili sauce and jellied cranberry sauce. Perfect for parties and gatherings, these flavorful little bites are cooked slowly in a slow cooker to meld the sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 (14-oz) packages beef little smokies
- 1 (12-oz) jar chili sauce
- 1 (14-oz) can jellied cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the beef little smokies evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out for even cooking.
- Mix Sauces: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chili sauce and jellied cranberry sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the little smokies in the slow cooker, making sure they are fully coated. Cover with the lid.
- Slow Cook: Set the slow cooker to LOW and cook for 2 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the sausages to heat through thoroughly.
Notes
- For best flavor, cook on low for a full 4 hours if time permits.
- This dish can be kept warm on the slow cooker setting until ready to serve.
- Great for parties; serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Can be doubled for larger gatherings using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
