If you love vibrant flavors that burst with a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy, then you are going to adore this Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe. Imagine juicy turkey sausage slices intermingled with caramelized pineapple chunks, crisp red bell peppers, and tender red onions, all glazed in a tangy maple BBQ sauce with a kick of Tabasco. This dish turns a simple summer grill into a colorful celebration that’s both satisfying and fresh. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or craving an easy weeknight dinner, these kabobs bring together ease and excitement on skewers that everyone will savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this dish, and luckily, the list is short but mighty. Each component adds its own magic—from the sweet tang of pineapple to the smoky zing of sausages, and the lively punch from the marinade.
- 1/2 pineapple: Cut into 18 pieces about 1 1/2″ each for just the right juicy sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- 1 red or orange bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a crisp texture contrast when diced into matching 1 1/2″ pieces.
- 1 medium red onion: Sliced into 18 pieces; its mild sharpness balances the dish with a subtle sweetness when grilled.
- 1 lb large turkey sausages or kielbasa: Cut into 18 rings; these provide the savory, hearty protein base, perfect for soaking up the marinade.
- 1/4 cup original BBQ sauce: Brings tanginess and depth to the glaze.
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness that complements the pineapple brilliantly.
- 2 tsp TABASCO® Sauce: Gives a gentle spicy kick to brighten the flavor profile.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat around 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is just right to cook your kabobs evenly without burning the sugars in the pineapple and maple syrup glaze.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
While the grill heats up, combine the BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and Tabasco sauce in a small bowl. Stir these together thoroughly to create a luscious, sticky marinade that will tie your kabobs together with a sweet and spicy punch.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Now comes the fun part! Thread the turkey sausage rings, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion slices onto each skewer. Alternate the ingredients as you go to ensure every bite is bursting with a medley of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Brush your kabobs generously with the marinade before placing them on the preheated grill. Cover the grill and cook each side: start with 3 minutes on the first side, then turn and brush again with marinade. Continue grilling for about 2 minutes per side, brushing continually as you turn to lock in moisture and flavor. Total grilling time should be around 10 to 12 minutes, until the veggies are tender and everything is cooked through to your liking.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take these kabobs from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the top for a bright herbal note. For an extra pop, squeeze a little lime juice or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds to add an additional layer of texture and zing.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair beautifully with light, fresh sides that complement but don’t overpower. Consider serving with a tangy coleslaw, a simple cucumber salad with mint and lemon, or even fluffy coconut rice to soak up all those lovely drippings and marinade flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve kabobs on a wooden board lined with banana leaves or large lettuce leaves. Add small bowls of extra BBQ-maple dipping sauce or a spicy mayo on the side. You can even pop them into warm pita pockets with some crunchy slaw for a casual handheld treat anyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though these kabobs rarely stick around), place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat without losing the delicious marinade flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled kabobs before grilling for busy days ahead. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your kabobs under the broiler for 2–3 minutes or warm them on a grill pan over medium heat, brushing with a bit of extra marinade to revive that glossy finish and fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe?
Absolutely! While turkey sausage works wonderfully for a leaner option, feel free to swap in your favorite sausage—be it bratwurst, chorizo, or even plant-based varieties—to tailor the dish to your taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the kabobs on a grill pan or under a broiler in your oven. Just be sure to watch closely and turn the skewers frequently to achieve that nice char and cook evenly without burning.
How spicy is the marinade with 2 teaspoons of Tabasco sauce?
The heat level is mild and balanced by the sweetness of the pineapple and maple syrup, adding just a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors. You can always adjust the amount of Tabasco to make it milder or bolder based on your preference.
Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the kabobs and marinate them for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before grilling. Just keep them covered to prevent dryness and grill fresh when ready for the best taste and texture.
What’s the best type of pineapple to use for these kabobs?
Fresh, ripe pineapple is ideal for this recipe to maximize sweetness and juiciness. Choose a pineapple that smells sweet at the base and yields slightly when pressed gently for perfect grilling results.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes for gatherings and casual dinners alike. The combination of juicy sausage, caramelized pineapple, and vibrant veggies, all kissed by a perfectly balanced glaze, is pure magic on a skewer. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—fire up that grill and enjoy the smiles that come with every delicious bite!
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Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 18 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6 skewers)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Grilled Pineapple Sausage Kabobs are a perfect blend of savory turkey sausage, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers and onions, all brushed with a spicy-sweet maple BBQ glaze. Ideal for summertime grilling, they offer a delightful combination of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors that are easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 pineapple, cut into 18 pieces, each about 1 1/2 inches
- 1 red or orange bell pepper, cut into 18 pieces, each about 1 1/2 inches
- 1 medium red onion, cut into 18 pieces
- 1 lb large turkey sausages or kielbasa, cut into 18 rings about 1 1/2 inches thick
Marinade
- 1/4 cup original BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 2 tsp TABASCO® Sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for about 300°F to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup original BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup real maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of TABASCO® Sauce. Stir well to blend all flavors together and set aside.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the turkey sausage slices, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion pieces onto the skewers, alternating ingredients to create a colorful and balanced kabob.
- Marinate and Grill: Brush the assembled skewers generously with the prepared marinade. Place them on the preheated grill, cover, and cook for 3 minutes on the first side. Then turn the skewers, brush with more marinade, and continue grilling for about 2 minutes per side. Keep brushing with marinade each time you turn the kabobs until the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness, with a total grilling time of approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
Notes
- Use real maple syrup for the best authentic flavor in the marinade.
- Ensure skewers are soaked in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling if using wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage or kielbasa according to preference.
- Adjust the amount of TABASCO® Sauce based on your desired spice level.
- Serve immediately off the grill for best flavor and texture.
