Cranberry Sausage (Savory, Sweet & Perfect for Gatherings)
Cranberry sausage is a comforting blend of savory and sweet flavors that works beautifully for holidays, special occasions, or simple family meals. Juicy sausage paired with tangy cranberries creates a balanced dish that feels festive without being complicated. Whether served as an appetizer, breakfast side, or main dish, this cranberry sausage recipe brings warmth and flavor to the table.
What makes cranberry sausage especially appealing is its versatility. It can be shaped into patties or formed into a loaf, prepared ahead of time, and easily adjusted to suit your taste. The cranberries add brightness while herbs and seasoning keep the dish grounded and savory, making it a reliable recipe you’ll want to return to year after year.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy cranberry sausage recipe, gather the following ingredients:
1 pound ground pork sausage
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup diced onion
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, cranberries, diced onion, parsley, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Shape the sausage mixture into patties or form it into a loaf, depending on how you plan to serve it. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage for 5–7 minutes per side, turning as needed, until browned on the outside and fully cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and allow to rest briefly before serving. The sausage should be juicy, lightly caramelized on the outside, and fragrant with herbs and cranberries.
Tips & Variations
For a slightly sweeter version, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup to the mixture. If you prefer more savory flavor, increase the thyme or add a pinch of sage. This recipe also works well with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cranberry sausage warm alongside eggs for breakfast, as part of a holiday brunch spread, or sliced and served with roasted vegetables for dinner. It also pairs well with stuffing, biscuits, or crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through.