Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Lil’ Smokies Bites combine the perfect balance of sweet pineapple and rich brown sugar, elevated with a savory blend of spices. These bite-sized sausages are slow-cooked to tender perfection, making them ideal for any party or casual gathering where finger foods are a must.
With a sticky, flavorful glaze that clings to every Lil’ Smokie, this dish is irresistibly tasty and easy to prepare in your slow cooker. Whether it’s game day, a family get-together, or a festive occasion, these savory-sweet bites will disappear fast!
- Perfectly marries sweet pineapple and brown sugar with smoky sausages for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Slow cooker method lets flavors develop deeply with minimal hands-on time.
- Simple ingredients come together effortlessly for a fuss-free, delicious dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
- Lil’ Smokies sausages (2 packages, 14 oz each): Small pork sausages that are pre-cooked and perfect for party appetizers or snacking.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds rich sweetness and helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze coating each sausage.
- Pineapple juice (1 cup): Provides a bright, tropical fruit acidity to balance sweetness and add depth of flavor.
- Pineapple chunks (1 cup, fresh or canned): Tender sweet pieces that sink into the glaze, adding bursts of juicy texture.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives a savory umami note which contrasts beautifully with the sweet ingredients.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a subtle pungency to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mild sweetness and depth without overpowering the glaze.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle heat to balance sweetness and keep flavors interesting.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Offers a subtle spicy kick for those who prefer added heat.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. This blends the sweet, savory, and spicy elements into a smooth glaze that will coat the sausages perfectly.
- Add Lil’ Smokies and Glaze to Slow Cooker
Place the Lil’ Smokies sausages in the slow cooker and pour the prepared pineapple glaze over them. Gently stir to ensure each sausage is evenly covered with the flavorful glaze, which helps infuse the taste during cooking.
- Incorporate Pineapple Chunks
Fold in the pineapple chunks with the sausages and glaze. These add juicy texture and enhance the tropical sweetness that complements the savory sausages beautifully.
- Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. Occasionally stir to keep the sausages coated and prevent sticking. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld deeply, producing tender sausages bathed in a rich, bubbling sauce.
- Serve Warm with Toothpicks
Once cooked, serve the bites warm using toothpicks for easy snacking. They make a fantastic party appetizer or a delicious finger food to enjoy alongside friends and family.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level or omit it completely for a milder version.
- Leftover bites keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheat nicely.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, this recipe can be adapted for the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, covered.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to preserve the glaze’s texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smoky-sweet bites alongside fresh veggies, a creamy dip, or a crisp salad to balance richness. They also pair wonderfully with cold beer or a tropical cocktail for festive occasions.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks if possible for a brighter fruit flavor and firmer texture.
- Try swapping soy sauce for tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free and enhance depth.
- Stir the slow cooker contents occasionally for even cooking and to prevent the glaze from burning on the sides.
FAQs
- Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Bake in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, stirring halfway through, until heated and bubbly.
- Are Lil’ Smokies gluten free?
Most Lil’ Smokies are gluten free, but always check the packaging to be certain and ensure the soy sauce used is gluten free as well.
- Can I substitute the pineapple juice or chunks?
Yes, orange juice and mandarin orange segments make good alternatives, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
- How spicy are these bites?
The spice level is mild due to black pepper and optional cayenne. You can adjust or omit the cayenne pepper to control the heat.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can mix the glaze ahead of time and refrigerate it, then combine everything in the slow cooker just before cooking.
- What type of soy sauce works best?
Light soy sauce offers a balanced saltiness, but tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that preserves the umami flavor.
- How many bites does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, usually around 16-20 bites depending on portion size.
Pineapple Brown Sugar Lil’ 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, stirring 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
- Great for parties and game days.
- Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred spice level.
- Store leftovers in refrigerator for several days.
