Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Little Smokies Bites are an absolute delight! Combining the savory taste of Little Smokies with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple makes this dish a bubbling sensation. The glossy brown sugar glaze gives these bites a stunning golden hue, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day, or simply looking for a delicious appetizer, these bites are sure to impress.
The aroma of smoky sausage mingled with sweet pineapple will fill your kitchen, captivating everyone’s senses. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for any occasion. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the steps, tips, and tricks for preparing these irresistible bites, ensuring they are a hit every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh pineapple and high-quality sausages enhances flavor and nutrition.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick to make with minimal steps—perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike!
- Nutrition: A fun way to enjoy protein and fruit in a single bite.
- Versatility: Great as an appetizer, snack, or party food.
- Broad Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults; a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
With these reasons, Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Little Smokies Bites will become a staple in your recipe collection!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
Select 1 package of Lil’ Smokies sausages, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to create this delicious dish.
Main Protein
- Lil’ Smokies Sausages: These small sausages are perfect for bite-sized treats. You can usually find them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store.
- Preparation: Just open the package; they are ready to cook!
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use mini sausages of turkey or chicken.
- Tip: Make sure to choose a nice, quality brand for the best flavor.
Starch/Pasta
- Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a glossy glaze. Use light or dark brown sugar based on your preference.
- Preparation: Measure out 1 cup for mixing with the barbecue sauce.
- Tip: Dark brown sugar will lend a richer flavor, if desired.
Liquids/Dairy
- Barbecue Sauce: A key ingredient that provides tanginess. Pick your favorite kind—sweet, smoky, or spicy!
- Preparation: Just pour 1/4 cup into the mixing bowl.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use a homemade barbecue sauce or even teriyaki sauce for a different flavor twist.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- Pineapple Chunks: Whether fresh or canned, they add a bright, fruity element.
- Preparation: Drain canned pineapple if using and measure out 1 cup.
- Tip: Fresh pineapple offers a fresher taste, while canned is convenient.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- Garlic Powder and Black Pepper: These spices enhance flavor.
- Preparation: Measure out 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Tip: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick!
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- Olive Oil: A simple drizzle helps to sauté sausage.
- Preparation: Use 1 tablespoon when cooking.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, melted butter can add extra richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start with the convenience of one pan and let’s get these bites cooking!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bites cook evenly and gives them that lovely, golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Coat a large baking dish with a little olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor to your dish as it cooks.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a sticky glaze for the sausages.
Step 4: Add Pineapple and Sausages
Gently fold in the Lil’ Smokies and pineapple chunks into the glaze. Make sure they are well coated to infuse flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Mixture
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The sausages should be heated through, and the glaze will be bubbly and sticky.
Step 6: Check Doneness
Once the time is up, check to see if the sausages are heated thoroughly (internal temp should be 165°F). The glaze should be caramelized but not burnt.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. The sweet aroma will entice your guests, and the bites will look beautiful on the table!
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve skewered on toothpicks for easy grabbing, or in a festive bowl.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a side of fresh veggies or a tangy dip for balanced snacking.
- Portions: One or two bites are perfect as appetizers, but be ready for requests for more!
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with a sweet iced tea or a light beer to complement the dish.
These bites are a fantastic addition to your party spread!
Additional Tips
- Add a little cayenne pepper for a spicy twist on the glaze.
- Customize by including additional ingredients like chopped bell peppers or onions.
- Serve with freshly chopped herbs sprinkled on top for extra color and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Teriyaki Twist: Swap the barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze for extra heat.
- Fruity Fusion: Include diced mango or peach with the pineapple for tropical flair.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked bites for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray or olive oil brush
FAQ’s
1. Can I use frozen sausages?
Yes! You can use frozen sausages; just ensure they’re fully cooked before serving.
2. Are these bites healthy?
They have protein and fruit, making them a fun, balanced snack. Enjoy in moderation!
3. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix everything and store it in the fridge. Just bake before serving.
4. How can I customize these bites?
Feel free to add different fruits or spices to the glaze to suit your taste.
5. Can I cook them in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
Conclusion
Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Little Smokies Bites are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any gathering. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll impress your friends and family without the stress. Enjoy making these delightful bites again and again, and share the joy of good food!
Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Little Smokies Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package Lil' Smokies sausages Great small sausages, ready to cook.
- 1 cup brown sugar Use light or dark brown sugar.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks Fresh or canned, drained if canned.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce Choose your favorite kind.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Use to coat the baking dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat a large baking dish with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to create a sticky glaze.
- Gently fold in Lil' Smokies and pineapple chunks until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Check to ensure sausages are heated through (internal temp should be 165°F) and the glaze is caramelized.
Serving
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve skewered on toothpicks or in a festive bowl.
