These Sausage Pineapple Bites are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy sausage pairs perfectly with sweet pineapple, all wrapped up in a neat little bite-sized package.
They’re super easy to make and always a hit at parties. I love to serve them with toothpicks, so everyone can grab a delicious bite without any mess. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked sausage or kielbasa: These add a rich flavor. If you need a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too. Beyond that, you could also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is delicious, but if you’re short on time, canned pineapple works just fine. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sausage. If you’re watching your sugar intake, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute can be good alternatives.
Garlic and ginger powder: These add warmth and depth. If you have fresh garlic or ginger, feel free to use them instead! Just mince them up finely.
How Do You Get the Perfect Caramelization on Sausage and Pineapple?
Caramelization is key for developing flavor in this dish, and it’s all about timing and heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven adequately to ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; lay out the sausage and pineapple in a single layer to allow proper air circulation.
- Be patient when roasting! Let them sit without stirring for a few minutes so they can brown nicely.
- Brush with glaze towards the end for the best sticky finish. This keeps everything sweet and caramelized without burning.
Following these tips will help you serve perfect Sausage Pineapple Bites every time! Enjoy!
Delicious Sausage Pineapple Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks (or use canned pineapple chunks, drained)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish
- 1 green onion, finely sliced, for garnish
- Wooden skewers or toothpicks for serving
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and another 15-20 minutes to roast these bites in the oven. Altogether, you can have these delicious treats ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your sausage and pineapple get nice and caramelized. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder (if you’re using it), honey, rice vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk everything together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This delicious glaze will add sweetness and flavor!
3. Prepare the Sausage:
Add your sausage pieces to the bowl with half of the glaze. Toss them well to ensure they are fully coated in that tasty mixture. This will add great flavor to the sausage as they roast.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Now, spread the glazed sausage pieces and pineapple chunks on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This is key to getting everything nice and brown rather than steaming.
5. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to turn everything about halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for those beautiful caramelized edges on both the sausage and pineapple!
6. Brush with Remaining Glaze:
Once they’re done roasting, take them out of the oven. Brush the sausage pieces with the remaining glaze for an extra layer of flavor. Let everything cool for a few minutes while you get ready to serve.
7. Assemble Your Bites:
Grab the wooden skewers or toothpicks. Skewer one sausage piece on top of one pineapple chunk for easy serving. This makes them neat and fun to eat!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish your delicious bites by garnishing them with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for a bit of crunch and color. Serve them warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or snack.
Enjoy your sweet and savory Sausage Pineapple Bites at your next gathering, or simply treat yourself to this scrumptious dish at home! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked sausage will work just fine. Just reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and caramelized.
How Can I Store Leftover Sausage Pineapple Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and pineapple and toss them in the glaze a few hours ahead. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them. This way, you can save time on party day!
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple?
If pineapple isn’t available, feel free to substitute with other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even bell peppers for a savory twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the fruit used!
