Description
These Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, featuring smoky sausage pieces baked with fresh cranberries coated in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Ready in just 40 minutes, they make a delicious appetizer or snack ideal for holiday gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
Sauce & Seasoning
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the smoked sausage pieces and fresh cranberries, preparing them for the sauce coating.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until fully combined into a smooth mixture.
- Coat the sausage and cranberries: Pour the prepared sauce over the sausage and cranberries, then toss thoroughly until all pieces are evenly coated with the flavorful glaze.
- Arrange on sheet pan: Spread the coated sausage and cranberry mixture evenly onto the lined sheet pan, ensuring a single layer for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through, and the cranberries have burst, releasing their juices.
- Garnish and cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley evenly over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
- Serve: Serve these warm as a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying at home.
Notes
- For easier cleanup, be sure to line the sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries can be used; no need to thaw before mixing.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- For extra crispiness, broil the bites for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.