Search Results for: Pineapple Brown Sugar Mississippi Lil' Smokies Bites

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Drain the pineapple chunks and set aside, saving 3 tablespoons of juice for the sauce.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, reserved pineapple juice, and garlic powder until smooth. This creates your signature glaze that coats everything beautifully.
3. Place Lil’ Smokies in your slow cooker and add pineapple chunks on top, distributing them evenly throughout.
4. Pour the brown sugar mixture over the sausages and pineapple, then gently stir to coat everything evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1½-2 hours until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Stir once halfway through.
6. If the glaze seems too thin, mix cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes. This helps achieve that perfect coating consistency.
7. Switch to warm setting and serve directly from the slow cooker with toothpicks. If the glaze starts to separate after several hours, just give it a gentle stir.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these glazed smokies on a large platter with decorative toothpicks for easy grabbing at cocktail parties or game day gatherings. The sweet and savory combination pairs wonderfully with other appetizers like cheese platters and vegetable crudités.

For holiday gatherings, keep them warm in your slow cooker on the buffet table so guests can help themselves throughout the evening. They’re particularly popular at Christmas parties and New Year’s celebrations.

These bites also work as a fun dinner option when paired with rice and roasted vegetables for a complete meal that kids absolutely love.

Consider serving them alongside spicy dishes to provide a sweet contrast, or include them in your Ramadan iftar spread as a protein-rich appetizer that energizes after fasting.

Variations and Suggestions (Make it Yours)

• Add ½ cup BBQ sauce to the glaze for a smokier, tangier flavor profile
• Use turkey Lil’ Smokies or plant-based sausages for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version
• Reduce brown sugar to ¾ cup and add 2 tablespoons honey for a more complex sweetness
• Toss in sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a sweet-heat combination
• Replace pineapple with drained maraschino cherries for a classic retro appetizer twist
• Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce to the glaze for an Asian-inspired umami note

Emily Dawson Tips for Recipe Success

Don’t skip draining the pineapple thoroughly—excess liquid will make your glaze watery and prevent it from properly coating the smokies. Pat the chunks with paper towels if needed.

Resist the urge to cook on high heat for the entire time. Low and slow allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to caramelize properly without burning the sugar.

Stir gently rather than vigorously to avoid breaking apart the pineapple chunks. You want them to stay intact for visual appeal.

Common mistake: Opening the lid too frequently to check on progress releases heat and extends cooking time. Trust the process and only stir once or twice.

If making ahead, prepare everything the night before and refrigerate in the slow cooker insert. In the morning, place it in the base and start cooking 3-4 hours before your event.