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Best Smoky Sausage and Bell Pepper Skewers Recipe

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These Smoky Sausage and Bell Pepper Tailgate Skewers are a quick and easy crowd-pleaser, ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and big smoky flavor from the grill.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1-inch rounds
  • 2 large bell peppers (any color mix), cut into 1.5-inch chunks
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 1.5-inch chunks, layers separated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8–10 metal or wooden skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)
  • Your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Slice sausage into 1-inch rounds. Cut bell peppers into 1.5-inch chunks. Cut red onion into 1.5-inch chunks and separate layers.
  2. Make the seasoning rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.
  3. Season everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine sausage, peppers, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle seasoning rub over and toss again until evenly coated.
  4. Assemble the skewers: Thread ingredients onto skewers, alternating sausage, pepper, and onion. Leave about 1/4 inch space between pieces. Each skewer should have 5-6 pieces.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-425°F). Clean grates and oil lightly.
  6. Grill the skewers: Place on grill grates. Cook for 5-6 minutes on first side without moving. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until sausage is heated through and peppers are tender with char marks.
  7. Rest and serve: Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use pre-cooked smoked sausage or kielbasa. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut all ingredients to uniform size for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the skewers to ensure proper charring. For oven method, bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, then broil for 2 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage skewers, bell pepper skewers, tailgate food, grilled skewers, smoky sausage, easy appetizer, game day food

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/best-smoky-sausage-and-bell-pepper-skewers-recipe/