BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup

Featured in: Home Kitchen Recipes

This comforting soup brings together smoked cocktail sausages, tangy BBQ sauce, and sweet apricot jam for a unique blend of flavors. Simmered slowly with bell peppers, onions, and aromatic spices like smoked paprika, it creates a hearty dish perfect for entertaining or casual family dinners. Ready in just over 4 hours with minimal prep, this crowd-pleaser pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rice.

Updated on Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:37:21 GMT
A steaming bowl of Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup garnished with fresh parsley, showcasing the rich, tangy broth and tender vegetable pieces.  Save
A steaming bowl of Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup garnished with fresh parsley, showcasing the rich, tangy broth and tender vegetable pieces. | ilembites.com

Imagine the comforting aroma of smoky sausages and sweet BBQ sauce filling your home. This Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup is a delightful twist on a classic party favorite, transformed into a hearty, tangy, and savory bowl that is perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. By slow-cooking simple ingredients like apricot jam and smoked cocktail sausages, you create a complex flavor profile that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated.

A steaming bowl of Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup garnished with fresh parsley, showcasing the rich, tangy broth and tender vegetable pieces.  Save
A steaming bowl of Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup garnished with fresh parsley, showcasing the rich, tangy broth and tender vegetable pieces. | ilembites.com

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This recipe is a fantastic solution for busy days when you want a meal that cooks itself. The combination of savory smoked meat and the fruity sweetness of the preserves ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor. Whether it's game day or a rainy Tuesday, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb (450 g) smoked cocktail sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 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
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the base
Add the sliced cocktail sausages, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the crock pot.
Step 2: Mix the liquids
Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and apricot jam. Stir until the jam is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Season the soup
Add the drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you are using it for extra heat. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Slow cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together perfectly.
Step 5: Season and serve
Taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best flavor, make sure the apricot jam is fully whisked or stirred into the broth at the start. Using a low setting on your slow cooker allows the smoky flavor from the cocktail sausages to deeply infuse the liquid without overcooking the vegetables.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this soup to your preference. For a smokier kick, try using a chipotle-style BBQ sauce. If you are looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausages work beautifully as a substitute for the traditional smoked cocktail sausages.

Serviervorschläge

For a complete and heartier meal, serve this soup over a bowl of steamed white rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every drop of the tangy broth. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Thick, savory Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup served hot in a rustic bowl, featuring diced bell peppers and smoky sausage slices.  Save
Thick, savory Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup served hot in a rustic bowl, featuring diced bell peppers and smoky sausage slices. | ilembites.com

With its delightful balance of sweetness and smoke, this Crock Pot BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It is a simple, no-fuss recipe that brings a touch of gourmet flavor to your everyday cooking routine.

Recipe Questions & Answers

Can I use regular sausages instead of cocktail sausages?

Yes, you can substitute with regular smoked sausages cut into bite-sized pieces. Adjust cooking time if using larger pieces to ensure they heat through properly.

What can I substitute for apricot jam?

Peach preserves, pineapple jam, or orange marmalade work well as substitutes. They provide similar sweetness and complement the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer over medium-low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A tangy or vinegar-based BBQ sauce balances the sweetness of the apricot jam perfectly. Avoid overly sweet sauces, or use chipotle BBQ for a smoky depth.

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BBQ Cocktail Sausage Soup

Smoked cocktail sausages in tangy BBQ sauce with apricot jam—sweet, savory, and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
15 mins
Time to Cook
240 mins
Overall Time
255 mins
Created by Danielle Crowley


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Tradition American

Makes 6 Serving Size

Diet Details No Dairy

What You'll Need

Meats

01 1 lb smoked cocktail sausages, sliced into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

01 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
02 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Bases

01 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
02 1 cup tangy-style BBQ sauce
03 1/2 cup apricot jam or preserves
04 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

Seasonings

01 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
02 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
05 Salt to taste

How To Make It

Step 01

Combine Base Ingredients: Add sliced cocktail sausages, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 02

Build Flavorful Broth: Pour chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and apricot jam into the slow cooker. Stir until jam is fully dissolved and mixture is well combined.

Step 03

Add Remaining Components: Incorporate drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir gently to distribute seasonings evenly.

Step 04

Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low setting for 4 hours until vegetables are tender and flavors have fully melded together.

Step 05

Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

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Tools Needed

  • Slow cooker (crock pot)
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Notice

Go through the list of ingredients for any potential allergens, and talk to a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains possible gluten from BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce
  • Contains sulfites from Worcestershire sauce
  • Sausages may contain milk, soy, or gluten—verify packaging labels

Nutrition Per Serving

These nutrition facts are for reference only and aren't a substitute for professional advice.
  • Caloric Content: 320
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Proteins: 14 g

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