There’s something undeniably addictive about the blend of sweet and savory flavors in these Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Lil’ Smokies Bites. Imagine smoky little sausages enveloped in a rich, caramelized pineapple glaze that’s both tangy and sweet, perfectly balancing the bite of spice and the warmth of slow cooking. These bites are crowd-pleasers, ideal for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers where finger foods steal the spotlight.
Slow cooking allows the sauce to infuse deeply, making every lil’ smokie burst with pineapple and brown sugar goodness, enhanced by a hint of garlic and pepper spices. Whether you’re a seasoned host or someone craving a flavorful snack, this recipe brings joyful boldness with minimal effort.
- Sweet pineapple and brown sugar create a perfectly caramelized glaze.
- Slow cooker method makes it effortless and ideal for entertaining.
- Bold spices add just enough kick without overpowering the smoky sausages.
- Gluten-free and easy to double for larger crowds.
Ingredients
- Lil’ Smokies sausages: Two 14-ounce packages of these smoky mini sausages, perfect bite-sized party treats.
- Brown sugar: One cup of packed brown sugar adds deep sweetness and helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Pineapple juice: A full cup of tangy pineapple juice gives a tropical, bright flavor base.
- Pineapple chunks: One cup of fresh or canned chunks adds texture and bursts of juicy sweetness throughout.
- Soy sauce: A tablespoon of soy sauce lends subtle saltiness and umami, enriching the glaze.
- Garlic powder: One teaspoon of garlic powder for a gentle, savory depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder: One teaspoon brings mellow sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- Black pepper: Half a teaspoon for subtle heat and earthiness behind the sweetness.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): A quarter teaspoon for those who like a touch of spicy kick balancing the sweet.
Instructions
- Create the pineapple glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne until the sugar dissolves and everything is well combined. This glaze serves as the flavorful sauce that coats the smokies, blending sweet, savory, and spicy notes perfectly.
- Coat Lil’ Smokies with glaze
Place the Lil’ Smokies sausages into your slow cooker, then pour the pineapple glaze over them. Gently stir to ensure each little sausage is evenly coated with the sweet and tangy sauce, which helps the flavors meld during the slow cooking process.
- Add pineapple chunks
Scatter the pineapple chunks throughout the slow cooker, mixing them gently with the sausages and glaze. The chunks soften while cooking, imparting juicy bursts and contrast in texture to the rich sauce.
- Slow cook until bubbly and tender
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and help the sauce thicken slightly. The slow heat infuses the sausages with the glaze, making them tender and the sauce rich and bubbly.
- Serve warm with toothpicks
Once cooked, serve the smokies warm, providing toothpicks for easy snacking. These are perfect finger foods, ideal for entertaining and sharing in casual settings.
- You can adjust cayenne pepper to control the spiciness to your preference.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks for the best texture and flavor, or drain canned chunks before adding.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat easily for snacks.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to keep the glaze smooth and the smokies moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smokies alongside chilled beverages for game days or pair with a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness. They’re also great on a party platter with other appetizers like cheese and crackers.
- Use a slow cooker with a stoneware insert for even heating and easy cleanup.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sauce from sticking and ensure even glazing.
- Adjust sweetness by slightly reducing brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet bite.
FAQs
- Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a covered saucepan on low heat, stirring regularly until thickened and hot.
- Can fresh pineapple be used instead of canned?
Absolutely, fresh pineapple chunks offer a brighter flavor and better texture but require no additional preparation other than cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is completely gluten free.
- Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Yes, ingredients can be doubled easily, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate.
- How spicy is the finished dish?
The dish is mildly spicy by default, with the cayenne pepper optional. Adjust to suit your heat preference.
- What other meats can I substitute?
You can try cocktail sausages or even meatballs, but cooking times and flavor absorption may vary.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Smokies
Equipment
- 1 slow cooker
- 1 medium bowl
Ingredients
- 2 packages 14 oz each Lil’ Smokies sausages
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until sugar dissolves.
- Place Lil’ Smokies sausages in the slow cooker and pour the pineapple glaze over them. Stir gently to coat evenly.
- Add pineapple chunks to the slow cooker and mix with sausages and glaze.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until sausages are heated through and sauce is bubbly.
- Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Notes
- Perfect for parties and game days.
- Adjust cayenne pepper for spice preference.
- Store leftovers refrigerated for a few days.
