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Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Skewers for Tailgating

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These Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Tailgate Skewers are the definition of low-effort, high-reward cooking. They come together in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and deliver a perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that make people hover around the grill.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound smoked sausage (Hillshire Farm or Johnsonville, beef or pork)
  • 2 large bell peppers (mix of colors: red, yellow, orange)
  • 1 large red onion (sweet onion like Vidalia works well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred; tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (yellow mustard works in a pinch)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)

Instructions

  1. Prep the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch thick rounds. Cut bell peppers into 1-inch squares, removing seeds and white pith. Cut red onion into similar-sized chunks, separating layers slightly.
  2. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Thread sausage, peppers, and onion onto skewers in an alternating pattern, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking. Brush with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Preheat the grill: Heat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). For gas grills, close lid and heat for 10 minutes. For charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash. Clean grates with a wire brush.
  5. Grill the skewers: Place skewers on grill grates. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to get char marks. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. During the last 2 minutes, brush glaze generously over all sides. Flip once more and brush the other side. Watch for flare-ups from the honey.
  6. Rest and serve: Transfer skewers to a serving platter. Brush with any remaining glaze. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Use flat skewers if possible to prevent food from spinning. Apply glaze only during the last 2-3 minutes to avoid burning. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control flare-ups. For best texture, leave small gaps between pieces on skewers.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage, pepper skewers, tailgating, grilled skewers, easy appetizer, game day food, honey soy glaze

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/easy-smoked-sausage-and-pepper-skewers-for-tailgating/