Cranberry Cocktail Sausages Clara quick dinners

Cranberry cocktail sausages are a sweet, tangy, and savory appetizer that’s perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings. These bite-sized sausages are slow-cooked or simmered in a rich cranberry sauce blend that’s both festive and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes just a few minutes to prep and uses only a handful of ingredients. The combination of tart cranberry sauce with savory sausages creates a mouthwatering glaze that clings perfectly to each bite. It’s ideal for entertaining, travels well, and keeps warm in a slow cooker for hours.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cocktail sausages (also known as little smokies or mini smoked sausages)
• Canned cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• Chili sauce
• Brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan or slow cooker, combine cranberry sauce and chili sauce.
2. Add brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice if using. Stir to combine.
3. Add the cocktail sausages and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
4. Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop until warmed through (about 1520 minutes), stirring occasionally.
   Or cook on low in a slow cooker for 23 hours, stirring once or twice.
5. Serve warm directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish with toothpicks.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 810 people as an appetizer.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes on stovetop or 23 hours in slow cooker
Total time: 25 minutes (stovetop)
Yield: Approximately 4050 cocktail sausages

Variations

• Use grape jelly instead of cranberry sauce for a classic sweet-and-savory flavor.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
• Swap chili sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
• Mix in pineapple chunks or orange zest for a citrus note.
• Try it with meatballs instead of cocktail sausages for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
To freeze, cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cocktail sausages?

Yes, just thaw them before adding to the sauce for even cooking.

What’s the best type of cranberry sauce to use?

Whole berry cranberry sauce adds texture, but jellied works fine if you prefer a smoother glaze.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté setting to mix and heat, then switch to “keep warm” once everything is hot.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just double all ingredients and use a larger pot or slow cooker to accommodate.

What can I serve these with?

Serve with toothpicks as a party snack or alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a meal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently before serving.

Are there vegetarian substitutes for the sausages?

You can use plant-based mini sausages or meatballs to make it vegetarian-friendly.

How do I keep them warm for a party?

Use a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting or place in a heatproof dish over a tea light warmer.

Can I add alcohol to the sauce?

A splash of red wine or bourbon can add depth; simmer long enough to cook off the alcohol.

Conclusion

Cranberry cocktail sausages are a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s easy to prepare and always a hit with guests. With their sweet and tangy glaze and effortless preparation, they’re a go-to choice for any event. Serve them warm and watch them disappear in minutes!

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