Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe

This sheet pan recipe combines the savory flavors of smoked sausage with the sweet, tangy taste of cranberries, creating a tender and flavorful snack that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. The Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe is a delicious addition to your holiday menu, offering a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to check out our the best homemade chocolate chip cookies guide for another mouthwatering treat.

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### Why This Recipe Works

This Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe excels due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures, along with an incredibly simple preparation process. By utilizing smoked sausage, the dish inherits a deep, rich flavor profile that pairs delightfully with the sweet and tangy essence of fresh cranberries. Furthermore, the addition of brown sugar helps to balance the acidity from the cranberries, resulting in a deliciously sweet and savory combination.

### Key Ingredient Highlights

The Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe is anchored by the following key ingredients:

– Smoked Sausage: Smoked sausage serves as the base of this recipe, offering a rich, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cranberries.
– Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries bring a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish, complementing the savory taste of the smoked sausage.
– Brown Sugar: A small amount of brown sugar is used to balance the acidity of the cranberries, creating a harmonious flavor combination.

## THE RECIPE CARD

Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Yield: 12-15 bites

Ingredients

▢ 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
▢ 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
▢ 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
▢ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
▢ 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
▢ 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
▢ Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Cut the pastry into 12-15 equal-sized squares, depending on the desired bite size.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cranberries, brown sugar, and parsley.
5. To assemble the bites, place a few pieces of the smoked sausage in the center of each pastry square. Top the sausage with a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
6. Fold the pastry squares in half over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
7. Brush the tops of the bites with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bite.
9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve warm.

## Pro Tips

– Prevent Overcooking the Sausage: Make sure to not overbake the sausage, as it can dry out quickly. Keep an eye on the bites during the last few minutes of baking and remove them from the oven when the pastry is golden brown.
– Underseasoning the Cranberries: Balance the acidity of the cranberries with the right amount of brown sugar. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
– Difficulty with Uniform Baking: To ensure uniform baking, try to cut the pastry squares into similar sizes and leave enough space between each bite on the baking sheet.

## FAQs

– Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in this recipe. Simply thaw them first and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
– How do I store leftovers? Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
– Can I customise this recipe with other ingredients? Feel free to experiment with other ingredients, such as other types of sausage or cheese, to create your own unique flavor combinations.

## Conclusion

This Sheet Pan Smoked Sausage Cranberry Bites Recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make snack perfect for the holiday season. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you’ll be enjoying these tasty bites in no time.