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Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Skewers

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These Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Tailgate Skewers are the perfect portable appetizer for game day, backyard hangouts, or casual get-togethers. Smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers, and red onion are threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb smoked sausage (beef or pork, like kielbasa or andouille), sliced into 1-inch rounds
  • 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors), cut into 1-inch squares
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8–10 wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch rounds. Cut the bell peppers into 1-inch squares (remove seeds and white pith first). Cut the red onion into 1-inch chunks, separating the layers slightly. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Season the mixture: Drizzle the olive oil over the sausage and vegetables. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together with your hands or a spatula until evenly coated.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Thread the sausage, peppers, and onions onto the skewers in an alternating pattern. Leave a tiny bit of space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for about 5-6 pieces per skewer.
  4. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are ashed over and glowing. Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers directly on the grill grates. Cook for 4-6 minutes on the first side without moving them. Flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes on the other side. The sausage should be heated through with char marks, and the peppers softened but still with a little bite.
  6. Rest and serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately while hot and smoky.

Notes

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. For a spicier version, add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a Hawaiian twist, add pineapple chunks to the skewers. To make ahead, assemble skewers up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate; add oil and seasonings just before grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage, pepper skewers, tailgate appetizer, grilled skewers, easy appetizer, game day food

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/easy-smoked-sausage-and-pepper-skewers/