These Sausage Pineapple Bites are a fun and tasty treat! They combine juicy sausages with sweet pineapple, giving you a perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
They’re super easy to make, too! Just pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen. I love serving these at parties—everyone always wants the recipe! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Canned pineapple works great for convenience, but fresh pineapple adds a lovely crunch. If you’re short on pineapple, you can swap in peaches or mango for a different fruity flavor.
Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its rich flavor, but breakfast sausage is fantastic if you prefer a milder taste. You can also try turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option!
Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey gives a nice glaze but brown sugar works too. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, consider maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener alternative.
Sesame Seeds: They add a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds make a delicious substitute, or you can just skip it if you’re out!
How Do You Get The Sausage Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the sausage well is key to making these bites flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet on medium. Don’t rush this! Letting it warm up ensures even cooking.
- Add the sausage pieces and let them brown without stirring too much. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking.
By following these steps, you’ll have tasty sausage that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple!
Sausage Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 1 can (about 20 oz) pineapple chunks or rings, drained (cut into bite-sized pieces if using rings)
- 1 lb sausage (Italian sausage or breakfast sausage), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Toothpicks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus another 10 minutes to bake. So, in just about 25 minutes, you can have these delicious bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough to caramelize the pineapple beautifully.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the sausage pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. When done, remove the skillet from the heat.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic powder, and ginger powder, if using. This sweet and savory sauce will enhance the flavors of your bites!
4. Prepare the Pineapple:
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased, arrange the pineapple pieces in a single layer.
5. Add Sauce to Pineapple:
Using a brush or a spoon, drizzle half of the soy-honey sauce over the pineapple pieces, making sure they are nicely coated.
6. Top with Sausage:
Place a cooked sausage piece on top of each pineapple chunk. This combo is where the magic happens!
7. Sauce the Sausage:
Brush the remaining sauce over the sausage pieces to give them a delicious glaze.
8. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the pineapple is slightly caramelized and the edges are golden and bubbly.
9. Finish and Serve:
Once they are out of the oven, transfer your sausage pineapple bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a nice touch.
10. Toothpick Time:
Insert a toothpick into each bite for easy serving. These are perfect for gathering with friends or as a small bite at any gathering.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these sweet and savory sausage pineapple bites as a perfect party appetizer or snack! Each bite is packed with flavor, and they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds a rich flavor, you can also use breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Can I Make These in Advance?
You can prep the sausage and pineapple bites ahead of time! Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple will work wonderfully and give you a great texture. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces similar to the canned chunks. You may not need to bake it as long, so keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven!