Sausage Pineapple Bites are a tasty mix of savory and sweet! Juicy sausage pieces paired with pineapple chunks create a fun and flavorful snack that’s perfect for parties.
These little bites are super easy to make—just pop them in the oven! I can’t help but sneak one or two before serving. They’re just too good to resist! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you need a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage. They cook similarly and taste great, too!
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to choose your favorite brand or flavor. For a twist, experiment with honey barbecue or spicy chipotle barbecue. If you want to reduce sugar, look for a low-sugar version.
Pineapple Chunks: If fresh pineapple is available, use it. Just make sure it’s ripe for the best flavor. Canned pineapple works well if time is short or fresh isn’t available.
Sesame Seeds: These add a fun crunch! If you don’t have them, you could use chopped nuts like peanuts or skip them entirely. They’re still tasty!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Sausage Bites?
The key to perfectly cooked sausage bites is ensuring they are fully cooked and golden brown. Here are some tips:
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer— it should reach 160°F (70°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps them cook evenly and brown nicely.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after baking before adding the sauce. This keeps them juicy.
Following these steps will maximize flavor and texture, making your bites irresistible!
How to Make Sausage Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 can (about 20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking pineapples)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Toothpicks or small skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy starter that will impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the meatballs bake evenly and get that lovely brown color. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the ground sausage with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything together until it is well combined. It should smell absolutely delicious!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Next, take small portions of the sausage mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place these meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one as they will expand while cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. They should be fully cooked through and nicely brown on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check; they should reach 160°F (70°C).
5. Sear the Pineapple:
While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the drained pineapple chunks and cook for 1-2 minutes, turning them to sear on each side until golden and slightly caramelized. This step enhances the flavor and gives a nice texture.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and carefully toss them in barbecue sauce until they are completely coated. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to each bite!
7. Assemble the Bites:
On a serving plate, take a pineapple chunk and place one of the glazed sausage meatballs on top. Secure them together with a toothpick or skewer. Repeat until all meatballs are assembled, creating beautiful little bites!
8. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, drizzle a bit more barbecue sauce over your bites. Sprinkle them with sesame seeds and fresh parsley or cilantro for color and flavor. These garnishes make your dish look inviting!
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Sausage Pineapple Bites warm or at room temperature. They make a fantastic appetizer or party snack that everyone will love. Enjoy the sweet and savory combination!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any ground sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary based on the type of sausage you use.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or on a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of barbecue sauce if needed to keep them moist.
How Can I Adjust the Level of Sweetness?
If you find the barbecue sauce too sweet, you can balance it out with a little extra garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce. Alternatively, look for a tangy barbecue sauce to cut through the sweetness of the pineapple.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the meatballs in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for parties!
