Save Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup is a tangy, sweet, and savory dish that offers a unique twist on classic comfort food. Featuring smoked cocktail sausages simmered in a rich, flavorful blend of BBQ sauce, apricot jam, and aromatic spices, this soup is perfect for feeding a crowd at gatherings or simply enjoying a cozy night in. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing the flavors to meld into a delightful and satisfying meal.
Save This recipe relies on the slow and steady heat of a crock pot to soften the red bell peppers and onions while the sausages infuse the broth with their smoky essence. The addition of diced tomatoes and a splash of Worcestershire sauce rounds out the acidity, ensuring every spoonful is balanced and hearty.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) smoked cocktail sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Liquids & Bases: 4 cups (1 L) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (preferably tangy-style), 1/2 cup (120 g) apricot jam or preserves, 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes (drained)
- Seasonings: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Add the sliced cocktail sausages, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crock pot.
- Step 2
- Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and apricot jam. Stir until the jam is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Step 3
- Add the drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir gently.
- Step 4
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
- Step 5
- Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best consistency, take a moment to stir the apricot jam thoroughly into the broth and BBQ sauce before starting the slow cooker. Cooking the soup on the low setting for the full four hours is recommended, as it allows the vegetables to become perfectly tender without overcooking the sausages.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a smoky kick, you can use a chipotle-based BBQ sauce or add a bit more smoked paprika. If you are looking for a lighter alternative, turkey or chicken cocktail sausages work beautifully in this recipe. Those who enjoy heat can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Serviervorschläge
This soup is wonderful when served with a side of warm, crusty bread to dip into the tangy broth. For a more substantial meal, serve it over a bowl of fluffy white rice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a vibrant color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Save Warm, flavorful, and incredibly easy to assemble, this Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you enjoy the sweetness of the apricot jam or the savory smokiness of the sausage, every bowl provides a comforting experience that is hard to beat.
Common Questions
- → Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer all ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
A tangy-style BBQ sauce balances the sweetness of the apricot jam. For extra smokiness, try chipotle BBQ sauce or add liquid smoke to your preferred brand.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
This freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- → What can I serve with this?
Crusty bread is ideal for dipping, or serve over rice for a heartier meal. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the rich, sweet flavors.
- → How can I make it lighter?
Substitute turkey or chicken sausages for smoked pork sausages, use reduced-sugar apricot preserves, and opt for low-sodium broth to reduce calories while maintaining great taste.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Diced carrots, celery, or green beans complement the existing flavors. Add them at the beginning so they soften properly during the slow cooking process.