These Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! With smoky sausage, sweet cranberries, and a touch of savory, they’re a perfect party snack.
Honestly, who can resist that delightful combo? I love popping these in my mouth while watching a movie. Plus, they’re ready in no time, making them great for last-minute gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: You can use any smoked sausage you like, such as kielbasa or turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage alternatives!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are great; however, canned whole cranberries work just fine if you’re short on time. Just make sure to check the ingredients for extra sweetness.
Cranberry Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the cranberry sauce for a different jam, like fig or even a spicy pepper jelly, to change up the flavor profile!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener will work depending on what you have on hand. For a vegan option, use agave syrup instead.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary gives the best flavor, but dried rosemary can be used in a pinch—just use a smaller amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Make Sure the Sausage is Perfectly Cooked?
To ensure the sausage bites come out perfectly, focus on a few key points:
- Preheat your oven well to get that nice caramelization.
- Spread sausage slices evenly on the sheet pan—don’t overcrowd them for even cooking.
- Bake until they’re slightly crispy on the edges. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
When you remove the bites from the oven, let them cool slightly. This helps set the cranberry topping so they hold together better when served! Enjoy making these fun bites for your next event!
How to Make Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup fresh or canned whole cranberries
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or cranberry jam
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making it a quick option for a gathering or a cozy night in. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you can have these tasty bites ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bites will cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization!
2. Prepare the Sheet Pan:
Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
3. Arrange the Sausage Slices:
Spread the sliced smoked sausage evenly across the sheet pan. Make sure to give them some space so they can brown nicely! Drizzle olive oil over the sausage slices for extra flavor.
4. Mix the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and chopped rosemary. Stir it well until everything is nicely blended.
5. Assemble the Bites:
Spoon a small amount of the cranberry mixture onto each sausage slice, making sure they all get a uniform topping. This will give a burst of flavor in each bite!
6. Add Whole Cranberries:
Top each sausage bite with one or two whole cranberries. They not only look pretty, but they also add a nice pop of tartness!
7. Bake:
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. They’re ready when the sausage is heated through and the cranberry topping is bubbly and caramelized.
8. Cool Slightly:
Once done, take the pan out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps the flavors meld together!
9. Serve:
To serve, insert a toothpick into each bite for easy handling. Garnish the platter with extra fresh rosemary sprigs for a touch of elegance. Enjoy your warm or room temperature bites as a delicious appetizer!
These Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites are a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and savory in each tasty morsel—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausages for a plant-based option. Just make sure they are pre-cooked for best results!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet bite, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey/maple syrup in the cranberry mixture. You can also add a touch more Dijon mustard for a bit of tanginess to balance the flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and cranberry topping ahead of time. Assemble the bites on the sheet pan, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
