Andouille Sausage Appetizer Bites With Cranberry Cheddar

My Best Tips

Let me share some secrets I’ve learned along the way. If you have time grilling the sausage adds this amazing smoky flavor. And while store-bought cranberry sauce works fine my homemade version with orange zest takes these over the top. Don’t assemble them too far ahead you want that cheese to be perfect when guests arrive.

Why Everyone Loves These

These bites have saved so many holiday parties. They’re fancy enough for Christmas Eve but easy enough that you’re not stuck in the kitchen all day. The combination of flavors hits all the right notes smoky spicy sweet and creamy. Plus they look so festive on the holiday table everyone thinks you spent hours making them.

Make Them Your Own

Here’s how I love mixing things up with these bites: Sometimes I’ll swap in different cheeses depending on what looks good at the cheese shop habanero cheddar adds an extra kick and aged gouda brings this amazing nutty flavor. For my vegetarian friends I’ve made them with thick slices of grilled zucchini instead of sausage still delicious! The cranberry sauce can become fig jam or spicy mango chutney. And during Christmas I use these adorable picks with little red and green tops they make everything look so festive.

Creating the Perfect Spread

These bites love company on the appetizer table. I often serve them alongside my stuffed cherry peppers and some watermelon feta bites in summer. During the holidays I’ll add them to a beautiful charcuterie board. My friends go crazy for them with spiced mulled wine or cranberry mimosas. It’s all about creating those perfect holiday moments.

Getting Ahead of the Game

Here’s my party prep secret: I cook the sausage and cut the cheese earlier in the day then store them separately in the fridge. When party time comes I just need to assemble them. Though they’re best fresh you can make them a few hours ahead just let them come to room temperature before serving. The flavors are actually even better when they’re not ice cold.