Pin It The first time I made this Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup was during a football playoff weekend when our heating went out. Everyone huddled in the kitchen as snow fell outside, clutching warm bowls while arguing calls on the tiny TV I'd dragged in. Something magical happens when smoky sausage meets sweet apricot jam, creating this unexpected comfort that's both familiar and surprising.
Last winter, my neighbor lost power during a storm and showed up at my door with her two restless kids. I ladled this soup into mugs, watched their worried expressions melt away with each spoonful, and suddenly our impromptu gathering felt intentional rather than desperate. The kids asked for seconds, then thirds, momentarily forgetting about their dark house across the street.
Ingredients
- Smoked Cocktail Sausages: The small size means more caramelized edges per bite, and I discovered that slicing them creates even more flavor-grabbing surface area.
- Apricot Jam: This unexpected ingredient completely transforms ordinary BBQ sauce, adding a subtle fruity depth that most people cant identify but always compliment.
- Smoked Paprika: After experimenting with eight batches, I realized this is the make-or-break ingredient that amplifies the smoky notes without overwhelming.
- Red Bell Pepper: Beyond flavor, it adds these beautiful specks of color that make each spoonful visually appealing against the rich amber broth.
Instructions
- Prep Your Flavor Base:
- Add those sliced sausages, chopped onion, diced red pepper, and minced garlic to your crock pot, arranging them in a way that makes you feel like a proper chef. This simple foundation will develop incredible depth as it cooks.
- Create Your Sweet-Savory Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and that secret weapon apricot jam, then stir until everything dissolves into a silky liquid. The jam might resist at first, but keep gently stirring and itll surrender.
- Add Complexity Layers:
- Now incorporate the drained tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and all those wonderful spices. The aroma that rises up as you stir will give you a preview of whats to come.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, resisting the urge to peek too often. Your kitchen will gradually fill with an aroma that draws people in from other rooms, asking whats for dinner.
- Final Flavor Check:
- Taste and adjust the salt level, knowing that BBQ sauces vary wildly in saltiness. This final seasoning makes all the difference between good soup and cant-stop-eating soup.
Pin It My brother-in-law, who typically declares soup a side dish, not a proper meal, went completely silent after his first spoonful of this one evening. The table chatter continued around him as he methodically finished one bowl, then immediately served himself another without comment. Later, I caught him photographing the crock pot and sheepishly asking for the recipe while everyone else was watching a movie.
Serving Suggestions
After experimenting with various companions for this soup, Ive found crusty sourdough bread provides the perfect textural contrast. The way the bread soaks up just enough broth while maintaining its structure creates this wonderful eating experience that elevates the entire meal. Sometimes Ill brush the bread with garlic butter and quickly toast it, which adds another dimension that plays beautifully with the sweet-savory soup profile.
Storage and Reheating
This soup develops even deeper flavor profiles overnight in the refrigerator, as the sausages continue to infuse the broth with their smokiness. When reheating, I discovered that adding a splash of fresh chicken broth revives the texture perfectly, while a few drops of Worcestershire sauce reawakens the tangy notes that might have mellowed. The soup freezes beautifully for up to three months, making it perfect for those nights when cooking feels impossible but you still want something homemade.
Customization Ideas
This recipe welcomes creative interpretation based on what you have available or your familys preferences. The basic formula of smoky protein + sweet element + tangy component creates a balanced foundation that remains delicious through countless variations.
- For an autumn harvest version, try adding a cup of diced butternut squash during the last hour of cooking.
- Turn up the heat with a tablespoon of adobo sauce from canned chipotles for a smoky burn that builds with each spoonful.
- For a lighter spring variation, stir in a handful of fresh spinach just before serving and garnish with lemon zest.
Pin It This soup reminds us that comfort food doesnt need to be complicated to be memorable. In its sweet-savory embrace, theres something that speaks of home, of gathering, of the simple joy that comes from a warm bowl shared among friends.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer all ingredients in a large pot over medium-low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors have combined.
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
A tangy-style BBQ sauce complements the sweetness of the apricot jam, but you can use any variety you prefer. Chipotle BBQ sauce adds a smoky kick.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, dinner rolls, or over cooked rice make excellent sides. You can also serve it as an appetizer in small cups at parties.
- → Can I substitute the cocktail sausages?
Turkey or chicken sausages work well for a lighter version. You can also use sliced kielbasa or smoked sausage links cut into bite-sized pieces.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add the cayenne pepper as suggested, or include diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or use a spicy BBQ variety to increase the heat level.