These Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky — a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as easy as it is delicious. Mini smoked sausages simmer in a sticky, tangy pineapple-teriyaki glaze that caramelizes beautifully, coating every bite in irresistible flavor. I once made these for a game night and added a dash of sriracha for a spicy twist — they were gone in minutes! Whether for parties, potlucks, or simple weeknight snacks, these little bites are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes classic cocktail smokies to a whole new level with a rich, tropical-inspired glaze. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory teriyaki sauce, and smoky sausages creates an addictive flavor balance that everyone loves. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be prepared in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. These little smokies are perfect for entertaining — they stay warm and flavorful for hours and pair beautifully with everything from rice to sliders.
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Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies – Sweet, Tangy, and Addictive
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies are a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring cocktail sausages simmered in a sweet and tangy pineapple-teriyaki glaze. They’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for game day, parties, or quick weeknight snacks!
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) package little smokies sausages
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan or skillet, combine teriyaki sauce, crushed pineapple, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the little smokies to the pan and stir to coat them in the sauce.
- Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the smokies are heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk together cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Transfer to a serving bowl or slow cooker set on warm.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a slow cooker version: Combine all ingredients in the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour.
- Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Great served with toothpicks for parties or over steamed rice for a quick meal.
- Use turkey or beef smokies depending on your preference.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Simmered / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Little Smokies (Cocktail Sausages) – The star of the dish; smoky, savory, and perfectly bite-sized.
Teriyaki Sauce – Brings rich umami flavor with a slightly sweet glaze. Choose thick, high-quality sauce for the best results.
Pineapple Juice – Adds tropical sweetness and brightens the savory teriyaki flavor.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and balances the sweetness.
Ginger (fresh or ground) – Lends subtle warmth and spice to complement the pineapple and teriyaki.
Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami and savory profile of the glaze.
Cornstarch (optional) – To thicken the sauce if you prefer a stickier texture.
Green Onions and Sesame Seeds (optional) – For garnish and added flavor before serving.
Directions
Slow Cooker Method
In a mixing bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce until smooth.
Add the little smokies to a slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them. Stir to coat evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.
Once heated through and coated in the glossy glaze, transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Stovetop Method
Combine all sauce ingredients in a large skillet or saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the little smokies and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and the sausages are well coated.
Serve immediately or keep warm on low heat.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 people as an appetizer.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 2–3 hours (slow cooker) or 20 minutes (stovetop)
Total time: 2–3 hours (hands-off) or 25 minutes (stovetop)
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For parties, keep them warm in a slow cooker on the warm setting for up to 3 hours.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Pineapple Teriyaki
Add sriracha, chili flakes, or a few drops of hot sauce for a sweet-spicy balance.
Hawaiian BBQ Style
Mix in a little BBQ sauce and extra pineapple chunks for a smoky-sweet version.
Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
Wrap each sausage in bacon before cooking for an indulgent, crispy twist.
Honey Teriyaki Smokies
Replace brown sugar with honey for a smoother, floral sweetness.
Ginger-Soy Version
Use extra soy sauce and fresh grated ginger for a bolder, more savory flavor.
Garlic Butter Glaze
Stir in a tablespoon of butter and minced garlic for extra richness.
Vegetable Add-In
Add chunks of bell pepper or onion for a colorful and flavorful variation.
Pineapple Chunk Upgrade
Stir in pineapple tidbits near the end of cooking for bursts of sweetness.
Sticky Sesame Finish
Top with toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
Crockpot Party Mix
Add meatballs or chicken bites along with the smokies for a fun variety platter.
FAQs
Can I use homemade teriyaki sauce?
Yes, homemade sauce works perfectly — just adjust the sweetness to taste.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat in the slow cooker before serving.
Can I use regular hot dogs instead of smokies?
Yes, cut them into bite-sized pieces for a similar effect.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I add pineapple chunks?
Yes, add them in the last 30 minutes so they stay juicy and don’t overcook.
How do I keep them warm at a party?
Keep them in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting — they’ll stay hot and saucy for hours.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer everything together for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Can I use turkey or beef smokies?
Definitely — use your preferred type of little smokies.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet.
What can I serve with them?
They’re great with rice, noodles, or as part of a party platter with skewers and dipping sauces.
Conclusion
These Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies are the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory — a crowd favorite that’s as effortless as it is delicious. The tender sausages coated in sticky pineapple-teriyaki glaze make the ultimate appetizer or easy meal for any occasion. Whether cooked in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, they’re simple, flavorful, and impossible to resist. One bite, and you’ll see why these are guaranteed to be the hit of any gathering.
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