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Flavorful Smoked Sausage Pineapple Bites

smoked sausage pineapple bites - featured image

These smoky-sweet bites combine caramelized smoked sausage and fresh pineapple for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
  • 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A handful fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Wooden or metal skewers (wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)

Instructions

  1. Slice 1 pound smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds. Peel and cut 1 medium fresh pineapple into 1-inch chunks. Toss both in a mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the sausage and pineapple. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently until well coated.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until hot.
  4. Add the sausage and pineapple mixture in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until sausage edges crisp and pineapple caramelizes.
  5. Flip pieces carefully with tongs and cook another 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides and pineapple is soft but not mushy.
  6. Thread one sausage slice and one pineapple chunk onto each skewer, alternating pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
  7. Optional: Drizzle a teaspoon of honey or balsamic reduction over the assembled bites before serving.

Notes

Keep heat medium-high but not too hot to avoid burning the brown sugar. Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper caramelization. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. For a spicy kick, add cayenne or red pepper flakes. Vegetarian option: substitute smoked sausage with grilled halloumi or tempeh cubes. Baked version: cook on a sheet pan at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage, pineapple bites, appetizer, party food, easy recipe, caramelized pineapple, crowd-pleaser, quick snack