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Crockpot Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies

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Crockpot Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies

Description

Crockpot Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer made by slow-cooking cocktail sausages in a sweet, tangy, and smoky sauce. The combination of cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, and a touch of brown sugar creates a rich glaze that coats every sausage. Perfect for holiday gatherings, game days, potlucks, and family parties, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 (14-ounce) packages little smokies cocktail sausages (about 28 ounces total)
  • 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • 4 to 6-quart slow cooker
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1

Add the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper directly into the slow cooker.

Step 2

Stir until the sauce is mostly smooth.

Step 3

Add the little smokies and stir to coat evenly.

Step 4

Cover and cook:

  • Low: 3–4 hours
  • High: 1½–2 hours

Step 5

Stir once or twice during cooking if possible.

Step 6

Switch to the Warm setting for serving.

Serve directly from the slow cooker with toothpicks.

Recipe Notes

  • Whole berry cranberry sauce adds texture, while jellied cranberry sauce creates a smoother glaze.
  • Any favorite BBQ sauce works, from smoky to sweet or spicy.
  • The sauce thickens as it cooks.
  • This recipe doubles easily for larger parties.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Tips for Success

  • Use high-quality cocktail sausages for the best flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking, as the sausages may split.
  • Stir gently to prevent breaking the cranberry berries.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a spicy kick.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for color.

Variations

Sweet & Spicy

Add:

  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce

Honey BBQ

Replace brown sugar with 2 tablespoons honey.

Maple Version

Use pure maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Bourbon BBQ

Add 2 tablespoons bourbon for a deeper flavor (cook long enough for the alcohol to evaporate).

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Toothpicks for easy snacking
  • Cheese platter
  • Crackers
  • Dinner rolls
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice
  • Roasted vegetables

Perfect for:

  • Christmas parties
  • Thanksgiving appetizers
  • Super Bowl parties
  • Potlucks
  • Family gatherings
  • Holiday buffets

Storage

Refrigerator

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

  • Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

  • Microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
  • Or warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Slow cooker: Heat on Low until warmed through.

Servings

  • Makes: 10 servings
  • Serving Size: About 8–10 little smokies with sauce

Approximate Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 270
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg
  • Sodium: 710 mg
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g

Nutritional values are estimates and vary depending on the brands of ingredients used.

Health Benefits

  • Protein Source: Cocktail sausages provide protein that supports muscle maintenance.
  • Cranberries: Contain antioxidants and vitamin C that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
  • Easy Portion Control: Small serving size makes it easy to manage portions.
  • Energy Boost: Carbohydrates provide quick energy for parties and gatherings.
  • Convenient: Slow cooker preparation minimizes hands-on cooking and keeps food warm for serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, then reheat in the slow cooker on Low until hot.

Can I use frozen little smokies?

Yes. Add about 30–60 minutes to the cooking time and ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely. Homemade cranberry sauce adds fresh flavor and works well in this recipe.

Which BBQ sauce is best?

Sweet, smoky, honey, or hickory-style barbecue sauces all pair well with the cranberry flavor.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes. Simmer everything together in a large saucepan over low heat for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes. Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool completely, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with these little smokies?

They pair well with cheese and crackers, vegetable trays, potato salad, baked beans, coleslaw, rolls, or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

How do I keep them warm during a party?

Keep the slow cooker on the Warm setting and stir occasionally to maintain an even coating of sauce.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a larger (6- to 8-quart) slow cooker and increase the cooking time slightly if needed, stirring once or twice for even heating.

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