Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies are the quintessential party appetizer, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that effortlessly combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in one irresistible bite. This recipe transforms humble smoked sausages into a gourmet-level treat by simmering them in a uniquely crafted sauce that strikes the perfect balance between the rich, salty depth of teriyaki and the bright, tropical sweetness of pineapple and chili sauce. The slow cooker is the hero of this dish, doing all the work for you and filling your home with an mouthwatering aroma that builds anticipation. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish, ideal for game days, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you need a foolproof, delicious appetizer that requires minimal effort for maximum reward.
The genius of this recipe lies not just in its ease but in the sophisticated layers of its sauce. By using a base of pre-made honey teriyaki for convenience and amplifying it with sweet Asian chili sauce, you create a complex foundation that is both sticky and glossy. The addition of pineapple chunks introduces juicy, caramelized fruit that perfectly cuts through the richness of the sausages, while the reserved pineapple juice serves a dual purpose: it’s used to create a smooth slurry with cornstarch that thickens the sauce to a perfect, clingy consistency, ensuring every little smoky is generously coated. The final garnish of fresh green onions and nutty sesame seeds adds a pop of color and a final textural contrast, elevating this simple dish into a visually appealing and utterly addictive centerpiece for your appetizer spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Elegance: The slow cooker does all the work, making this the easiest, most hands-off appetizer you’ll ever make, yet it tastes incredibly complex and sophisticated.
- Perfect Flavor Balance: Enjoy the ideal harmony of sweet, salty, and tangy in every bite, with juicy pineapple chunks complementing the savory smokies.
- Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: This is a universally loved dish that disappears quickly from any party platter, appealing to both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: You can prepare this hours before your event and let the slow cooker keep it warm, freeing you up to entertain your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 (14 oz) packages Little Smokies smoked sausages
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks, drained with ¼ cup juice reserved
- 2 cups honey teriyaki marinade sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s or KC Masterpiece)
- 1 cup sweet Asian chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine Main Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- Place the Little Smokies and the drained pineapple chunks into the bowl of a 1.5 to 2-quart slow cooker. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
Step 2: Add the Sauces
- Pour the honey teriyaki sauce and the sweet Asian chili sauce over the smokies and pineapple. Using a large spoon, gently stir the mixture until all the sausages and pineapple pieces are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Cook on High
- Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on the HIGH heat setting for 2 hours. This will allow the smokies to heat through and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Create the Slurry
- About 15-20 minutes before the end of the cooking time, prepare a slurry to thicken the sauce. In a small, separate bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with the reserved ¼ cup of pineapple juice. Whisk them together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
- Remove the lid from the slow cooker. While stirring the contents continuously, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to stir for a minute to ensure it is fully incorporated. The sauce will begin to thicken as it continues to cook. If the sauce becomes too thick for your liking, you can thin it out by stirring in an additional tablespoon or two of the reserved pineapple juice.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency and the smokies are heated through, turn off the slow cooker. Transfer the Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies to a serving dish. Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve warm directly from the slow cooker or a serving dish, providing toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Tips:
- Sauce Consistency: The thickness of the sauce is a matter of personal preference. The cornstarch slurry will create a glossy, thick sauce that clings to the sausages. For a thinner, more glaze-like sauce, you can reduce or omit the cornstarch.
- Pineapple Note: Be sure to drain the pineapple chunks thoroughly, but don’t discard the juice! Reserving it for the slurry is a key step. Using the pineapple juice instead of water to make the slurry adds an extra layer of fruity sweetness to the sauce.
- Spice Level: For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other sauces at the beginning of the cooking process.
- Stovetop Alternative: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this in a large saucepan or Dutch oven on the stovetop. Simmer the ingredients over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes, then add the slurry and cook until thickened.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat on the stovetop, adding a small splash of water or pineapple juice if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the sausages and the consistency of the sauce can change upon thawing.
Pineapple Teriyaki Little Smokies are the ultimate no-fuss, high-reward party food. Their addictive flavor, effortless preparation, and beautiful presentation make them a guaranteed hit that will have your guests coming back for more, every single time. Enjoy
