Name: Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers: Your New Grilling Obsession
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Pork Tenderloin (Can substitute with pork sirloin); 2 cups Pineapple Chunks (Fresh is best but canned works); 1 medium Red Onion (Can substitute with yellow onion); 1 medium Green Bell Pepper (Red or yellow bell peppers can be used); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Use your favorite brand); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Any cooking oil can be used); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor)

As the sun starts to dip and the grill sizzles to life, there’s something magical about gathering around with friends and family. I often find myself reminiscing about those perfect summer evenings filled with laughter, the scent of BBQ wafting through the air, and the tantalizing taste of Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers. This quick and easy recipe marries the sweetness of juicy pineapple with smoky, tender pork—making it a crowd-pleaser for any cookout. In just 15 minutes, you’ll create skewers bursting with flavor and vibrant colors that look as good as they taste. Perfect for both novice chefs and seasoned grill masters, these skewers offer a delightful escape from fast food. Ready to add a touch of summer to your dinner table? Let’s dive into the details of this grilling dream!

Why are these skewers a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: The recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ pork delivers an exciting taste sensation that will leave your taste buds singing!

Versatile Pairing: These skewers look incredible on a plate and pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or grilled corn on the cob, just like in my Pineapple Cucumber Salad recipe.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for summer BBQs, these skewers are a surefire hit with family and friends, ensuring everyone comes back for seconds.

Quick Grilling Delight: In only 15 minutes, you can bring vibrant flavors to your table—ideal for those who love cooking but want to keep it fast and fun! Don’t forget to check out my Feta Skewers Cucumber for another quick fix.

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Ingredients

For the Skewers
• Pork Tenderloin – A lean and juicy protein that provides a tender texture; feel free to swap it with pork sirloin for a different flavor.
• Pineapple Chunks – The star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and acidity; fresh is best for brightness, but canned works too!
• Red Onion – Brings a delightful sharpness and vibrant color; yellow onion is a milder alternative.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds a refreshing crunch and color; consider using red or yellow bell peppers for more sweetness.

For the Marinade
• BBQ Sauce – The essential marinade that gives depth and a sticky glaze; use your favorite brand for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil – Helps blend and coat the marinade; any cooking oil will do, but olive adds a lovely richness.
• Garlic Powder – Intensifies the flavor profile; fresh garlic can be used for a more robust taste, just adjust the amount.
• Black Pepper – Enhances the overall taste; freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Start by cutting the pork tenderloin and fresh pineapple into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Next, chop the red onion and green bell pepper into similar-sized pieces. This uniformity ensures that each ingredient grills evenly, enhancing the overall flavor of your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.

Step 2: Make Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together your favorite BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined. This tangy marinade brings out the best in the pork and pineapple. Allow the mixture to sit for a moment to let the flavors meld together, which will elevate your skewers even further.

Step 3: Marinate
In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes with the pineapple, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Pour the BBQ marinade over the mixture, tossing everything until well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. This brief marination allows the flavors to infuse into the pork and veggies, ensuring that each bite of your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Skewer Assembly
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Begin threading the marinated pork and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between pork, pineapple, onion, and bell pepper. Aim for a colorful arrangement to make your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Step 5: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 15 to 20 minutes. Turn the skewers frequently to ensure even cooking, until the pork is no longer pink and vegetables are tender with lovely grill marks. This step is essential for achieving that perfect blend of smoky and sweet flavors.

Step 6: Finish
In the final minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with additional BBQ sauce for a glossy finish and extra flavor. Once fully cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, making your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers juicy and ready to serve!

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers, transforming them into your family favorites!

Chicken Alternative: Swap pork for chicken breast for a lighter, tender option that still packs a flavorful punch.
Try marinating the chicken less with the same BBQ sauce for a refreshing change that everyone will love!
Shrimp Delight: Use shrimp instead of pork for a quick-cooking, seafood-inspired version.
Grilled shrimp brings a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet pineapple—perfect for coastal-themed gatherings!
Vegetarian Style: Substitute the protein with seasonal veggies and firm tofu for a plant-based twist.
Consider zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a colorful, satisfying vegetarian dish that everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices for a fiery element that enhances the BBQ experience.
The heat from the jalapeños beautifully balances the sweet pineapple, creating a tantalizing flavor profile!
Fruit Medley: Mix in mango or peaches with the pineapple for a delightful fruity variation.
This combination introduces a sweet twist and can elevate the overall flavor, making each skewer a fruity sensation.
Asian Infusion: Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor.
The combination of teriyaki with pineapple delivers an irresistibly sweet and tangy glaze reminiscent of summer nights.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil between the ingredients for an aromatic layer of flavor.
Herbs bring vibrancy to your skewers, inviting your senses for a delightful culinary experience.

Explore these variations as you savor the joy of grilling! You may also enjoy adding a side of my Pineapple Cucumber Salad or try whipping up my Coconut Pineapple Banana for dessert. Happy grilling!

Expert Tips for Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), guaranteeing juicy and safe-to-eat Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers.
Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, give your skewers space on the grill to ensure even cooking and a beautiful char. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than grilling!
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap the pork for chicken or shrimp for different flavor profiles. Seasonal vegetables can also add variety to your skewers!
Time Control: Every grill can have its quirks, so keep an eye on the cooking time, turning the skewers frequently for even caramelization. This will enhance the flavors wonderfully.
Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to settle, ensuring a more flavorful and juicy bite in every piece!

Make Ahead Options

These Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors without the last-minute rush! You can marinate the pork, pineapple, onion, and bell pepper up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine them in a large bowl with the marinade and refrigerate. This helps intensify the flavors while keeping your ingredients fresh. When you’re ready to grill, thread the marinated components onto skewers and preheat your grill. Brush with BBQ sauce during the final minutes to add that irresistible glaze. This simple strategy not only saves time but also ensures that your skewers remain just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

As you prepare to indulge in the sweet and smoky delight of skewers, let’s create a deliciously balanced meal around them.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp mix of greens with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the skewers, adding a refreshing crunch.
Fluffy Rice: Whether it’s jasmine or basmati, a side of fluffy rice soaks up the savory BBQ juices, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn brings a delightful char and bursts of sweetness that echo the flavors of the skewers.
Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw adds a cool, crunchy contrast, brightening up every bite of your succulent skewers.
Chili Lime Quinoa: The zesty twist of chili and lime brings a vibrant flavor that pairs harmoniously with the sweet pineapple and BBQ.
Watermelon Salad: Juicy watermelon sprinkled with feta and mint offers a refreshing palate cleanser, balancing the richness of the pork.
Mango Salsa: A zesty mango salsa introduces a tropical twist that enhances the sweet notes from the pineapple, making every bite exciting.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A cool, refreshing drink like homemade lemonade or iced tea perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the skewers, keeping you refreshed.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers grilled to perfection add extra color and texture to your plate, enhancing your dining experience.
Chocolate Ice Cream: End the meal on a sweet note with creamy chocolate ice cream, providing a luscious contrast to the savory flavors of the skewers.

How to Store and Freeze Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are cooled before sealing to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw the skewers overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or re-grill them for added freshness.

Assembly Tips: If you plan on freezing marinated ingredients, do so without skewering them. Assemble and grill them fresh for the best taste!

Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe pineapple?
Absolutely! When selecting a ripe pineapple, look for one that has a sweet aroma at the base and is slightly firm to the touch. Check the leaves; they should be green and fresh, and if you can pluck one easily, the pineapple is likely ripe. Avoid ones with dark spots or a sour smell.

How should I store leftover Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers?
Very! After enjoying your skewers, let them cool to room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To maintain their delicious flavor and texture, be sure to seal them properly before refrigerating.

Can I freeze Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat them in an oven or grill to restore that fresh-off-the-grill taste.

What should I do if my skewers are overcooked or dry?
Ah, that can happen! If your Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers end up a bit dry, try serving them with a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce or a tangy dipping sauce to add moisture back in. For future grilling, ensure to watch the cooking time carefully and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C).

Are Pineapple BBQ Pork Skewers safe for pets?
Definitely! While the ingredients themselves aren’t toxic to pets, it’s best to avoid feeding them skewers with BBQ sauce or spices, as many sauces contain ingredients that may not be safe for pets. Stick to plain cooked pork and pineapple for a treat if you wish to share a bite!

Can I use a different meat instead of pork?
The more the merrier! If you’re looking for a variation, feel free to substitute pork with chicken breast or shrimp. Both options grill beautifully and will soak up that tasty marinade wonderfully. Adjust cooking times accordingly, 12-15 minutes for chicken, and 2-3 minutes for shrimp, turning frequently.