Cocktail Sausages
Cocktail sausages are a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring smoky sausages coated in a tangy, sweet chili and grape jelly sauce. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, their savory-sweet flavor combination makes them irresistible and easy to serve with toothpicks or small plates.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. bottle chili sauce
- 10 oz. jar grape jelly ⓘ
- 16 oz. package cocktail smoked link sausages
Instructions
- Combine chili sauce and grape jelly in a large saucepan; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 3 minutes or until mixture begins to boil.
- Add the cocktail sausages; cook an additional 3 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring often.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, try using barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce, or mix in some crushed red pepper for heat. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute turkey sausage for the smoked link sausages. Keep an eye on the mixture while cooking to prevent burning, and serve promptly for the best taste. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings alongside Hot Dog Cheese Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cocktail sausages as a delicious appetizer at parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy serving and can be complemented by sides like potato chips or a fresh veggie platter. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Andre'S Favorite Fried Turkey Wings to satisfy hearty appetites.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cocktail sausages in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot. Avoid reheating them too long, as they can become tough and lose flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Sausages contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cocktail sausages ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili sauce and grape jelly mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply heat the mixture and add the sausages. This allows you to save time during your event and ensures the dish is warm and tasty when served.
What type of sausages work best for this recipe?
Smoked cocktail sausages are the traditional choice, but you can also experiment with other types like turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter option. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the sauce, as the cooking time in the sauce is primarily for heating.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness primarily depends on the chili sauce you choose. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a sweet chili sauce. For those who enjoy heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or using a spicier chili sauce. Taste and adjust to your preference before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).