These Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites are a fun and easy snack! Juicy sausage pairs perfectly with sweet tangy cranberries, all baked to golden perfection.
They’re a hit at parties and super simple to make! I love how they disappear fast—like they have little legs. Just pop them in the oven and enjoy the yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: The star ingredient! You can use your favorite smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille for a spicy kick. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works too. My personal favorite is a classic kielbasa for its rich flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess. For a twist, try Pepper Jack for some extra heat, or even gouda for a smoky flavor. Just make sure it melts well!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a nice tartness. If they’re out of season, you can use dried cranberries, but keep in mind they’ll be sweeter. I like to add a bit of fresh zest to balance the sweetness.
Cranberry Sauce: Using jam works great but opt for a less sweet variety if you prefer balance. Homemade cranberry sauce can elevate the dish if you’re up for it.
How Do I Make Perfectly Balanced Bites?
Assembling the bites is key to creating a delightful flavor combo. Make sure each skewer has a balanced mix of sausage, cheese, and cranberry topping for every bite. Follow these tips:
- Layer the sausage, cheese, and cranberry mixture evenly. This way, you get a sweet-tangy and savory bite with each mouthful.
- While baking, keep an eye on the cheese. You want it melted but not overly gooey.
- Let the bites cool slightly after baking; they’ll hold together better when you serve them!
Enjoy these simple yet delicious bites at your next gathering; they’ll impress your guests for sure!
Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 ounces cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or jam (preferably slightly chunky)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- Toothpicks, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for whipping up a quick snack or appetizer that’ll impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get everything ready for a perfect bake. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the Sausage:
Next, take your smoked sausage pieces and arrange them evenly on the sheet pan. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a good amount of salt, pepper, and chopped fresh thyme (or rosemary). This adds flavor that makes everything delicious!
3. Bake the Sausage:
Pop the sheet pan into the oven and bake the sausage pieces for about 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for them to be golden brown and slightly caramelized, giving that yummy flavor.
4. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:
While the sausage is baking, get your cranberry topping ready! In a small bowl, mix together the fresh cranberries and the cranberry sauce until well combined. This will add a sweet and tangy burst of flavor to your bites!
5. Assemble the Bites:
Once the sausage is baked, take the sheet pan out of the oven. Grab some toothpicks and get ready to assemble! Skewer a cube of cheese first, then add a spoonful of the cranberry mixture, followed by a piece of smoked sausage. Repeat this until all your ingredients are used up!
6. Finish Baking:
Carefully return the assembled bites to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. You want the cheese to start melting but not completely lose its shape. This is where the magic happens!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and garnish with extra thyme or rosemary sprigs to make them look even more appealing. Serve warm and enjoy these delicious bites at your next gathering or simply as a tasty snack!
These savory, sweet, and smoky bites combine juicy smoked sausage, melty cheese, and tangy cranberries into a simple yet delightful treat! Enjoy!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Smoked Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly milder, so consider adding extra herbs or spices for that punch.
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Over-Melting?
To avoid the cheese melting too much, keep a close eye on the bites in the oven. Remove them when the cheese is just starting to melt and not fully gooey. This way, it maintains its shape and texture!
Can I Prepare These Bites in Advance?
Yes! You can pre-assemble the skewers and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
What Should I Serve These With?
These bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of dipping sauces like mustard or ranch. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a charcuterie board for a fun gathering!
