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Smoked Sausage and Pepper Skewers: Best Easy Tailgate Recipe

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These Smoked Sausage and Pepper Tailgate Skewers are the ultimate game-day finger food. Smoky sausage, sweet charred peppers, and a tangy balsamic marinade come together in minutes for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for tailgating or any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (about 680g) smoked sausage (beef or pork, like kielbasa or andouille)
  • 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors: red, yellow, orange)
  • 1 large red onion
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 810 wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Instructions

  1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using them.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F or 190-200°C).
  3. Slice smoked sausage into 1-inch thick rounds (about 24-30 pieces).
  4. Core and seed bell peppers, cut into 1-inch square pieces. Slice red onion into similar-sized chunks.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add sausage, peppers, and onion to the bowl. Toss gently to coat. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Thread ingredients onto skewers, alternating sausage, pepper, and onion. Leave a little space between pieces.
  8. Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until sausage has grill marks and peppers are tender and charred (total 8-10 minutes).
  9. Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave space for heat circulation. Cut ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking. Use a two-zone fire on charcoal grills for better control. Let skewers rest after grilling for juicier results. Oil grill grates to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

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