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Delicious Pineapple Brown Sugar Little Smokies served as a savory appetizer

Pineapple Brown Sugar Little Smokies

Sweet, sticky cocktail sausages that feel fancy but are incredibly simple to make. Ideal for game days, potlucks, or quick appetizers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Party Food
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 packages 14 oz packages of little smokies About 32–40 cocktail sausages total.
  • 1 can 20 oz can pineapple chunks, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional) For a touch of tang.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) For warmth.
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional) Adds silkiness.
  • to taste Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
  • as needed Toothpicks for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter if using. Let it melt and swirl to coat the pan.
  2. Add the little smokies and sear for 2–3 minutes, just until they have a little color.
  3. Stir in the brown sugar, ketchup, Dijon mustard (if using), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until the sugar begins to dissolve.
  4. Add the pineapple chunks and the reserved 1/4 cup pineapple juice. Stir well to coat the sausages.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, and serve with toothpicks.
Slow Cooker Shortcut
  1. Toss everything (little smokies, pineapple, sauce ingredients) into a 4–6 quart slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or on HIGH for 1–2 hours.
  2. If too watery, turn to HIGH for 20–30 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
Baking Option
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine all ingredients in a large baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to thicken and caramelize the sauce.

Notes

These smokies pair well with crunchy veggie platters, soft rolls, or rice. Make-ahead friendly and can be reheated with a splash of water or pineapple juice.