These Crockpot Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer. Smoky cocktail sausages simmer in a sweet and tangy sauce made with cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and savory seasonings until perfectly glazed and irresistibly flavorful.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, game day party, potluck, or family get-together, this easy slow cooker recipe is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
- Sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor
- Perfect for holidays and parties
- Great for potlucks and game day
- Minimal prep with simple ingredients
- Keeps warm in the crockpot for serving
Ingredients
- 2 packages (14 ounces each) little smokie sausages
- 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Equipment Needed
- 4- to 6-quart slow cooker
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Add the little smokie sausages and spread them into an even layer.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Coat the Sausages
Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the little smokies.
Gently stir until every sausage is coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover with the lid and cook:
- LOW: 3–4 hours
- HIGH: 1½–2 hours
If possible, stir once or twice during cooking to ensure even coating.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the sauce is thick, glossy, and bubbling, taste and adjust the sweetness if desired.
Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds before serving.
For parties, keep the slow cooker on the WARM setting so the little smokies stay hot throughout the event.
Recipe Tips
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce to customize the flavor.
- Stir gently during cooking to keep the sausages evenly coated.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce provides great texture, but jellied cranberry sauce works as well.
- For a thicker sauce, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
Easy Variations
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Smokier Flavor: Use a hickory or mesquite-style barbecue sauce.
Sweeter Version: Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Holiday Twist: Stir in a splash of orange juice or orange zest for a festive citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies with:
- Toothpicks for easy appetizers
- Cheese and cracker platters
- Party snack boards
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Dinner rolls
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
These Crockpot Cranberry BBQ Little Smokies are sweet, savory, smoky, and incredibly easy to prepare. With their rich cranberry barbecue glaze and effortless slow cooker method, they’re the perfect appetizer for holidays, game days, potlucks, and family celebrations.
