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Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Skewers: Best Tailgating Appetizer

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These Easy Smoked Sausage and Pepper Skewers are the ultimate tailgating appetizer—simple, quick, and packed with smoky flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep and a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that tastes like you spent hours on it.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound smoked sausage (beef or pork, like kielbasa or andouille), sliced into 1-inch rounds
  • 2 large bell peppers (any colors), cut into 1.5-inch squares
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 10–12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. Wash and dry the bell peppers. Remove tops, seeds, and membranes, then cut into 1.5-inch squares. Peel the red onion and cut into 1.5-inch chunks, separating layers slightly.
  3. Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch thick rounds.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage pieces, pepper squares, and onion chunks. Drizzle with olive oil and add smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. Thread ingredients onto skewers, alternating sausage, pepper, and onion. Leave about 1/2 inch of space between pieces. Aim for 4-5 pieces per skewer.
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
  7. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until sausage has char marks and peppers are tender with browned edges (total 8-10 minutes).
  8. Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Serve hot directly off skewers or on a platter.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. For best results, don’t overcrowd skewers and flip only once. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on a hot skillet or grill for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked sausage skewers, tailgating appetizer, grilled sausage and peppers, easy appetizer, game day food

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/easy-smoked-sausage-and-pepper-skewers-best-tailgating-appetizer/