Name: Irresistible Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers for Summer Grilling Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Pork Tenderloin (Or cubed pork shoulder for a different bite.); 1 cup Pineapple (Fresh or drained canned.); 1 medium Red Onion (Can use yellow or white onion.); 1 medium Green Bell Pepper (Other colored peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be used.); 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce (Your favorite type.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Or avocado oil.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Can substitute with fresh garlic.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked is preferred.)

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As the sun dips below the horizon and the aroma of grilling fills the air, I can’t help but crave something delightfully fresh and vibrant. Enter my Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers—a dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory for a summer feast. These skewers are not only easy to throw together, making them a fantastic option for busy home chefs, but they are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any backyard gathering. Juicy pork tenderloin, luscious pineapple, and colorful veggies roast beautifully together, creating a dish that’s as versatile as it is impressive. Whether you’re grilling for family or entertaining friends, these skewers will surely keep everyone coming back for seconds. Curious about how this delicious fusion comes together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Skewers So Irresistible?

Simplicity makes these Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers a breeze to prepare—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs! Flavorful combinations of sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ enhance every bite, delighting your taste buds. Versatile in nature, you can easily swap in chicken or beef for a twist. Plus, they’re great for meal prep; marinate in advance and grill when ready. Get ready to wow your guests at your next barbecue with this impressive dish!

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful skewers!

For the Skewers

Pork Tenderloin – The star of the dish, tender and juicy; opt for pork sirloin or cubed pork shoulder for a different bite.
Pineapple – Offers a perfect sweet and tangy contrast; fresh is best, but drained canned pineapple works in a pinch.
Red Onion – Adds a pop of flavor and color; can be swapped with yellow or white onion.
Green Bell Pepper – Brings a crunchy sweetness; feel free to use other colored bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for variety.

For the Marinade

BBQ Sauce – Acts as both marinade and glaze, choose your favorite for different flavor profiles (sweet, smoky, or spicy).
Olive Oil – Keeps the marinade moist; avocado oil makes a great substitute if you’re looking for alternatives.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor; fresh garlic can be used as a swap (1 clove = ¼ tsp powder).
Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; using freshly cracked pepper elevates the flavor.

These Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are bound to become a hit at your summer gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by cutting the pork tenderloin, fresh pineapple, red onion, and green bell pepper into 1-inch cubes. This allows for even cooking and delightful bite-sized portions in your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers. Gather a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients effortlessly in the next steps.

Step 2: Make Marinade
In a separate bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This flavorful marinade will ensure the pork and vegetables are infused with that sweet and smoky goodness. Set aside the marinade until you combine it with the pork and veggies.

Step 3: Marinate
Add the cubed pork, pineapple, onion, and green bell pepper to the large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the mixture and toss gently, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Let the flavors meld by covering the bowl and marinating in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced taste.

Step 4: Thread Skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Then, take the marinated pork and vegetables and carefully thread them onto the skewers, alternating between pork, pineapple, onion, and green bell pepper for a colorful and enticing presentation that makes your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers irresistible.

Step 5: Preheat Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350–400°F (175–200°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the skewers evenly without burning them. While the grill heats up, you can prepare any side dishes to accompany your delicious skewers.

Step 6: Grill Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the pork, while the vegetables should be tender and have beautiful grill marks, adding to the overall flavor of your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.

Step 7: Glaze (optional)
In the final minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with additional BBQ sauce if desired. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and a sticky finish that complements the sweet pineapple and smoky pork.

Step 8: Serve
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain the juices in the pork, ensuring each bite is succulent. Finally, serve your vibrant Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers warm and enjoy the delicious fusion with family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can cut the pork, pineapple, onions, and bell peppers and marinate them up to 24 hours in advance, helping to infuse the flavors. Just remember to keep the skewers assembled until grilling to maintain their quality (this prevents the vegetables from getting mushy). Another tip is to refrigerate the marinated mixture in an airtight container, ensuring everything stays fresh. When it’s time to cook, simply thread the marinated ingredients onto skewers, preheat your grill, and grill for about 15-20 minutes for a delightful meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it from scratch on the same day!

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these skewers; there are so many fun ways to customize them!

Chicken Option: Swap pork for cubed chicken breast for a lighter take that’s equally delicious. Chicken absorbs the marinade beautifully, guaranteeing a tender and juicy result.
Beef Delight: Use cubed sirloin steak instead of pork for a rich, hearty flavor. Marinating adds an adventurous twist that will impress your guests, making every bite a savory delight.
Veggie Explosion: Replace the pork with a medley of robust vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vibrant vegetarian skewer. Each veggie cooks to a tender perfection, making it an inviting, colorful dish.
Custom BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors; consider spicy, honey-mustard, or a fruit-infused blend! Each BBQ sauce brings a unique twist that can transport your palate to new flavor horizons.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the marinade for an aromatic twist. The fresh notes elevate the existing flavors, creating a fresh culinary experience with every bite.
Sweet Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a kick of heat. This spiciness complements the sweetness of the pineapple, offering a tantalizing flavor contrast.
Mixed Fruit Medley: Incorporate other fruits like peaches or plums alongside the pineapple for a burst of flavor. Grilling fruit caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Garlic Boost: Switch garlic powder for fresh minced garlic to intensify the garlicky flavor in the marinade. This fresh approach lends depth to the skewers, keeping everyone wanting more.

These variations not only keep your cooking exciting but also let you cater to your guests’ preferences. And if you’re looking for more delicious side ideas, check out my BBQ Chicken Mac or a refreshing Bbq Chicken Chopped Salad to accompany your skewers!

Expert Tips for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and helps ensure a successful cook.
Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the grill; leave space between skewers. This promotes consistent cooking and allows for beautiful grill marks on your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F, ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat skewers.
Flip Frequently: Turn the skewers often while grilling, about every 5 minutes. This helps achieve an even cook and enhances the smoky flavor of the pork and beautiful char on the veggies.
Marinate Longer: For boosted flavor, consider marinating your skewers for longer than 30 minutes—up to 2 hours is ideal. This allows all the delicious flavors to penetrate deeper into the pork and veggies.
Customize with Ease: Remember that you can easily swap ingredients! Feel free to substitute the pork protein with chicken or beef to suit your family’s preferences while keeping that irresistible flavor.

Storage Tips for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Fridge: Leftovers should cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze uncooked, marinated skewers for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, preserving the juicy texture of your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.

Marinade: For optimal flavor, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week, adding it to freshly cut pork and veggies right before grilling.

What to Serve with Sweet and Smoky Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Elevate your dinner experience with perfect pairings that complement the delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Fresh Green Salad: The crispness of mixed greens adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the skewers.
Fluffy Rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine or coconut rice, allowing the sticky BBQ sauce to soak in, enhancing every bite.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of charred corn perfectly harmonizes, providing a delightful crunch that echoes summer BBQ vibes.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs bring a hearty side that supports the lightness of the skewers wonderfully.
Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw brings cooling contrasts and crunchy textures, enriching the overall barbecue experience.
Mango Salsa: A zesty mango salsa brightens the palette with tropical sweetness, enhancing the tropical vibes of the pineapple.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like iced tea or homemade lemonade offer a perfect thirst quencher, echoing the dish’s summer spirit.
Chocolate Brownies: Finish off your meal with fudgy brownies—the rich chocolate pairs beautifully, rounding out the flavors lingering from the skewers.

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe pineapple for the skewers?
Absolutely! When selecting a fresh pineapple, look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a sweet, fragrant aroma at the base. The skin should be golden-yellow with minimal dark spots, indicating ripeness. If the leaves pull out easily from the crown, it’s a good indicator that the pineapple is ripe and ready to enjoy.

How should I store leftover Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers?
Very! Once your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them!

Can I freeze the skewers before cooking?
Of course! To freeze uncooked, marinated Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then grill as usual!

What should I do if my skewers are burning on the grill?
If you notice that your skewers are burning, try moving them to a cooler part of the grill or adjusting the heat. Ensure your grill is not overly crowded as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them beforehand for at least 30 minutes can also help prevent burning.

Are Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers safe for pets?
Generally, pork is not toxic to dogs; however, you should avoid giving them skewers due to the risk of splinters. As for the marinade, be cautious with ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet regarding safe treats for your furry friends.

Can I make these skewers in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep your skewers by cutting up the pork and vegetables and marinating them a few hours in advance. Just be sure to assemble the skewers only right before grilling for the best results. This way, you’ll have everything ready to go, making meal time effortless and delightful!