Pineapple Kielbasa Bites with BBQ or Teriyaki Glaze

Whenever I need a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, backyard BBQs, or holiday parties, I make these Pineapple Kielbasa Bites.

They’re sweet, smoky, tangy, and gone in seconds! With just a few ingredients—kielbasa, pineapple, and your favorite glaze—these little bites pack a big flavor.

You can stick ’em with toothpicks and serve them warm or even keep them simmering in a slow cooker.

Jump to Recipe

They’re ridiculously easy, yet always the hit of the party.

Featuring sliced smoked kielbasa rounds and drained pineapple chunks, they are coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser.

The recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, including brown sugar, toothpicks for serving, and optional toppings like chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Recipe Highlights

These Pineapple Kielbasa Bites hit the perfect sweet-and-savory note. The smoky kielbasa pairs beautifully with juicy pineapple chunks, and whether you choose a sticky BBQ glaze or teriyaki sauce, the result is a caramelized, flavor-packed appetizer that’s impossible to resist.

You only need a handful of ingredients and 15–20 minutes to bring it all together.

Perfect for feeding a crowd, these bites can be made on the stovetop, oven, or even in a slow cooker for hands-off cooking.

Highlights:

• Sweet, smoky, and tangy all in one bite
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• Just 4–5 main ingredients
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• Great make-ahead or party dish
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• Can be served hot or at room temperature
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• Customizable glaze (BBQ or teriyaki!)

Ingredient Notes

• Kielbasa: Use fully cooked smoked kielbasa. Slice into bite-sized rounds for even caramelization and easy skewering.
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• Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple works great here (drained well), or use fresh for an even juicier bite.
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• BBQ or Teriyaki Sauce: Both options are delicious—BBQ adds smokiness while teriyaki brings a sweet-salty glaze. Go for a thick sauce that clings well.
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• Brown Sugar (optional): Boosts the caramelization and balances the tartness from the pineapple.
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• Toothpicks: Optional, but perfect for presentation and serving.

Preparation Steps

The process of making these bites is straightforward and quick.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

In a large bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and brown sugar until they are well combined, creating a sweet and tangy glaze.

How to Make My Pineapple Kielbasa Bites

1. Prep the ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into ½-inch rounds. Drain pineapple chunks if using canned.
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2. Assemble (optional): If baking or skillet-cooking, you can pre-assemble bites by skewering a pineapple chunk on top of each kielbasa slice with a toothpick. If slow cooking, just toss everything together.
   
3. Choose your method:
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   Oven: Preheat to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. Arrange assembled bites and brush with sauce. Bake for 15–18 minutes, brushing again halfway through.
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   Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown kielbasa for 2–3 minutes, then add pineapple and sauce. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened and glazed.
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   Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
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4. Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot or warm with extra sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Once out of the oven, let the bites cool slightly before serving.

Use toothpicks to make them easy to grab and enjoy.

For an added touch, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, which not only enhance the presentation but also add a burst of flavor.

These bites shine on an appetizer tray, but you can also:

• Serve them over rice for a quick meal
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• Pair with coconut rice or Hawaiian rolls
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• Add to party platters with cheese and crackers
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• Include as part of a game-day or potluck spread
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• Serve with toothpicks and a side of extra BBQ or teriyaki dipping sauce

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Pineapple Kielbasa Bites are versatile and can be served at various events, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.

With their appealing appearance and delicious taste, they are sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

Prepare to see these bites disappear quickly from the platter!

Tips for the Best Pineapple Kielbasa Bites

Make sure to pat the pineapple dry so it doesn’t water down your sauce. Browning the kielbasa first boosts the smoky, savory flavor and helps caramelize the glaze.

If using the oven, don’t skip the second sauce brush—it adds extra shine and flavor.

Want a little heat? Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze for a sweet-spicy kick.

Storage & Warming Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra sauce.
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• Freeze: Not recommended due to the texture change in pineapple, but kielbasa-only versions can be frozen.