These Grilled Pineapple Kielbasa Skewers are the kind of recipe that feels like a mini summer vacation on a stick. Sweet, smoky, juicy, and just a little bit charred—basically everything you want from a grill recipe. You only need a handful of ingredients, and they come together fast.
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
I started making these when I was craving something grilled but didn’t want to babysit anything on the BBQ. The combo of pineapple and kielbasa is wildly good. It’s sweet and savory with a little crisp from the grill. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a laid-back cookout.
Why these skewers are always on repeat:
- 🍍 Pineapple caramelizes on the grill = flavor bomb
- 🔥 Kielbasa gets crispy edges but stays juicy
- 🧄 Quick garlic marinade for extra oomph
- 🥄 Just a few ingredients and very little prep
- 🍢 Fun to eat (or meal prep for the week)
⏱️ Time & Servings
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 skewers (2 per person if you’re hungry)
📊 Exact Macros (per skewer)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Kielbasa is pre-cooked, so it just needs to sear—this keeps cook time short.
- Pineapple contains natural sugars that caramelize fast when grilled.
- A quick garlic and oil marinade adds depth and keeps things juicy.
- Alternating ingredients on skewers ensures even cooking and better texture.
🛒 Ingredients
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced into thick rounds
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chili flakes
🍢 How to Make Grilled Pineapple Kielbasa Skewers
1. Mix Garlic Marinade
In a bowl, stir together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
2. Toss Kielbasa & Pineapple
Add kielbasa slices and pineapple chunks to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything with the marinade.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread alternating pieces of pineapple and kielbasa onto wooden or metal skewers.
4. Grill the Skewers
Place skewers on a hot grill or grill pan. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until charred and heated through.
5. Garnish & Serve
Remove from grill, sprinkle with parsley or chili flakes, and serve hot.
🍽️ What to Serve With
- 🥗 Cucumber salad or coleslaw
- 🍚 Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- 🌽 Grilled corn on the cob
- 🥬 Lettuce cups for a low-carb wrap
🧾 Meal Plan Ideas
- Prep skewers in advance and grill right before serving
- Double the recipe for a weekend BBQ spread
- Toss leftovers into rice bowls or salads
- Pack into containers with slaw for work lunches
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding skewers: Leave a little space between pieces for even grilling
- Using canned pineapple: It’s too soft and won’t grill well
- Skipping the marinade: Garlic oil brings the flavor—don’t skip it!
- Overcooking: Kielbasa is already cooked—just get a nice char and pull it off
❓ FAQ
Can I use chicken sausage instead of kielbasa?
Yes! Just make sure it’s pre-cooked so the timing stays the same.
What if I don’t have a grill?
Use a grill pan or even broil the skewers in the oven for similar results.
How long will leftovers last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet or eat cold!
Can I prep ahead?
Yes—assemble the skewers and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
✨ Final Bite
These Grilled Pineapple Kielbasa Skewers are fast, flavor-packed, and seriously addictive. They’re perfect for cookouts or just a weeknight that needs a little sunshine. Try them once—you’ll be hooked. Let me know how yours turn out! 🍍🔥🍢