Delight your guests with these Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Lil’ Smokies Bites, a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that burst with every bite. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, these sausages are cloaked in a luscious pineapple glaze enriched with a touch of spice and smokiness, making them an irresistible party appetizer or game day snack.
The ease of preparation combined with the rich, balanced taste makes this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these Lil’ Smokies bites bring both flavor and fun to your table.
- The unique combination of sweet pineapple and brown sugar perfectly enhances savory Lil’ Smokies.
- Slow cooker method ensures a hassle-free, hands-off cooking experience with deep flavor development.
- Customizable spice level with optional cayenne pepper to suit all palates.
- Ideal for parties, snacks, or appetizers, serving hot and easy-to-eat bites.
Ingredients
- Lil’ Smokies sausages (2 packages, 14 oz each): Bite-sized, smoky sausages that form the hearty base of this dish, ready to soak up flavors.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Provides a rich sweetness and caramel undertone to perfectly balance the savory ingredients.
- Pineapple juice (1 cup): Adds a tangy, tropical brightness that tenderizes and flavors the sausages deeply.
- Pineapple chunks (1 cup, fresh or canned): Sweet, juicy pieces that add texture and bursts of fruity flavor throughout.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Contributes umami depth and enhances the overall savoriness in the glaze.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness and smoky meats.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle, savory complexity without overpowering the glaze.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a mild heat and helps balance the sweetness of the glaze.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives a gentle spicy kick for those who love a little heat in their bites.
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This step ensures a consistent glaze that adheres well to the sausages, blending all flavors harmoniously.
- Add Sausages and Glaze to Slow Cooker
Place the Lil’ Smokies sausages into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared pineapple glaze over the top. Gently stir to coat every sausage evenly with the sweet and savory mixture. This helps infuse the sausages with flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Incorporate Pineapple Chunks
Add the pineapple chunks to the slow cooker and mix gently with the sausages and glaze. The chunks provide juicy bursts of sweetness and texture contrast in each bite, enhancing the overall experience.
- Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken to a glossy, irresistible consistency. Heat ensures the sausages are fully warmed and tender.
- Serve Warm with Toothpicks
Once cooked, serve the Lil’ Smokies bites warm for optimal taste and texture. Use toothpicks for easy snacking and presentation, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level — omit if serving children or spice-sensitive guests.
- Use fresh pineapple chunks for brighter flavor; canned works well but may be sweeter.
- Stirring occasionally during cooking keeps the sausages coated and prevents sticking.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low in a slow cooker or microwave to preserve the glaze’s consistency and the sausages’ juicy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bites alongside fresh veggie sticks or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. They also pair wonderfully with dark beers or sparkling beverages to complement the sweet and smoky flavors.
- For a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, use tamari or coconut aminos to suit dietary needs.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the tanginess of the glaze if desired.
- If hosting a large crowd, double the recipe and cook in separate slow cookers to maintain even heat and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer the sausages and glaze in a large skillet over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and the sausages are heated through.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, provided you use a gluten-free soy sauce like tamari. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare the glaze and sausages ahead of time, store separately, then combine and heat in the slow cooker before serving.
- What can I substitute for Lil’ Smokies?
Mini smoked sausages or cocktail sausages work well as substitutes, just ensure they are pre-cooked for best results.
- How spicy is this dish?
The cayenne pepper provides a mild heat. Omit it to keep the recipe sweet and savory without spice.
- Can I use fresh pineapple juice instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple juice will add a brighter, more natural fruitiness and enhance the glaze flavor.
- Are leftover Lil’ Smokies good cold?
They can be eaten cold but are best enjoyed warm to bring out the glaze’s full flavor and juicy texture.
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
- Whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl until sugar dissolves and mixture is combined.
- Add Lil’ Smokies sausages to the slow cooker and pour pineapple glaze over them. Stir gently to coat sausages evenly.
- Mix pineapple chunks into the slow cooker with the 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
- Adjust cayenne pepper to vary spice level.
- Store leftovers in refrigerator for several days.
- Ideal for parties and game days.
