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Easy Sheet Pan Sausage and Pepper Skewers: Best Tailgate Recipe

sheet pan sausage and pepper skewers - featured image

These Easy Sheet Pan Sausage and Pepper Tailgate Skewers are a ridiculously simple, hands-off dish that delivers all the satisfaction of a grilled skewer without any of the hassle. You get beautiful caramelization, juicy sausage, and tender, blistered peppers from a single sheet pan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds fully cooked smoked sausage or kielbasa
  • 2 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 large red onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cut the smoked sausage into 1-inch thick rounds. Seed the bell peppers and cut into 1-inch square pieces. Peel the red onion, cut in half through the root, then cut each half into 1-inch chunks.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sausage pieces, bell pepper chunks, and red onion chunks. Add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Thread the seasoned sausage and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces. Do not pack them too tightly. You should get about 6 to 8 skewers.
  5. Place the skewers on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer. Roast for 15 minutes. Flip each skewer with tongs, then roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the sausage is browned and the peppers and onions are tender with charred edges.
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot or warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure caramelization. For a deeper sear, broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut sausage into chunky 1-inch pieces to keep them juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage and pepper skewers, sheet pan recipe, tailgate food, easy appetizer, game day recipe