Grilled Sausage Skewers

Sausage Kabobs are the quintessential summer meal – delightfully simple to prepare, incredibly nutritious, and bursting with vibrant flavors! This recipe brings together savory smoked sausage with a colorful medley of crisp bell peppers, zesty red onion, earthy baby bella mushrooms, all elevated by a harmonious blend of seasonings. Get ready to transform your grilling experience!

As the weather warms and days lengthen, there’s nothing quite like the sizzle of the grill to gather family and friends. Grilling offers a fantastic way to cook healthy, flavorful meals with minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends alike. If you’re looking to expand your outdoor cooking repertoire this season, be sure to explore our acclaimed grilled chicken marinade, craft these impressive inside-out cheeseburgers with corn salsa, or try the ever-popular Hobo foil packets for another effortless meal.

Sausage Kabobs: The Ultimate Family Favorite

There’s a universal appeal to food on a stick, especially for the younger crowd! In our home, serving dinner on skewers is often met with enthusiastic cheers. My boys, in particular, seem to find endless delight in the novelty of kabobs, sometimes using them for epic sword fights before finally indulging in the deliciousness. Yet, these sausage kabobs have undeniably become a hands-down favorite for both playful enjoyment and wholesome eating!

After a few successful kabob nights recently, the boys have been relentlessly campaigning for *everything* to be served on a skewer. This delightful obsession has sparked a fresh wave of culinary creativity in our kitchen, so prepare for more exciting “on-a-stick” recipes heading your way soon! Kabobs are not just fun; they offer an excellent way to introduce a variety of vegetables and proteins into your family’s diet, making mealtime both engaging and nutritious.

Sausage Kabobs Ingredients: The Perfect Blend

Crafting exceptional sausage kabobs begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully on the grill. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this recipe truly stand out:

• Sausage. For these kabobs, we enthusiastically recommend using smoked sausage. The pre-cooked nature of smoked sausage makes it an ideal choice for grilling, as it cooks up quickly without the need to worry about reaching specific internal temperatures for safety – it’s actually completely safe to eat straight from the package! We grill it primarily to achieve that irresistible browned and charred exterior, which adds incredible depth and smoky flavor that simply cannot be replicated otherwise. While we prefer hardwood smoked turkey sausage to keep the recipe on the healthier side, any variety of smoked sausage – be it pork, beef, or chicken – will deliver fantastic results. Experiment with different types to find your family’s favorite!
• Veggies. A colorful array of vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal of your kabobs but also provides a burst of fresh flavors and essential nutrients. Our go-to combination for these skewers includes sweet bell peppers (we love using a mix of red, green, and orange for visual vibrancy and diverse sweetness), robust red onion for a pungent bite, and tender baby bella mushrooms. These vegetables are chosen for their complementary textures and similar cooking times, ensuring everything on the skewer reaches perfection together.
• Olive Oil. More than just a lubricant to prevent sticking, olive oil plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor and tenderness of your kabobs. It helps the seasonings adhere to the ingredients, promotes beautiful browning, and contributes healthy monounsaturated fats. A generous coating of olive oil ensures your veggies remain tender-crisp and your sausage develops a rich, golden-brown crust.
• Seasonings. The magic often lies in the seasoning, and our simple yet impactful blend is no exception. We combine aromatic dried oregano, bright dried parsley, pungent garlic powder, vibrant paprika, and essential salt and pepper. This classic Mediterranean-inspired mix perfectly complements the savory sausage and sweet vegetables, creating a well-rounded and incredibly delicious profile that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t underestimate the power of these humble spices to transform your dish!

Sausage Kabobs: Expert Grilling Tips for Perfection

Achieving perfectly grilled kabobs requires a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips to ensure your sausage and vegetable skewers are cooked evenly, beautifully charred, and bursting with flavor every time:

• Ensure Uniform Piece Size for Even Cooking. This is perhaps the most critical tip for any kabob recipe. To guarantee that all your ingredients—sausage, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms—cook at a consistent rate, it’s essential to cut them into pieces of roughly the same size. Unevenly sized pieces will result in some ingredients being overcooked or undercooked. Refer to the recipe card for specific sizing recommendations, typically 1 to 1.5-inch pieces, which allows for optimal grilling.
• Mastering Your Seasoning. While our recipe provides a recommended salting, remember that not all salts are created equal. I typically use fine sea salt, which has a different density and salinity than coarser salts or common table salt. If you’re using table salt, you’ll generally want to use a slightly lesser amount to avoid over-salting. Always taste and adjust seasonings to your preference, keeping in mind that the grilling process can concentrate flavors.
• Generously Oil Your Grill Grates for Optimal Sear. Proper grill preparation is paramount. To prevent sticking and encourage that beautiful, flavorful char, always generously oil your grill grates before placing the kabobs. A simple and effective method is to roll up a few paper towels, drench them in a high-smoke-point oil like canola or vegetable oil, and then, using tongs for safety, carefully rub the oiled towels along the clean, preheated grates. This creates a non-stick surface and promotes a gorgeous sear, locking in juices and maximizing flavor.
• Preheat Your Grill Thoroughly. Patience is a virtue when it comes to grilling. Always wait until your grill is fully preheated to the specified temperature (medium-high, typically 450-500°F) before adding the loaded skewers. Placing kabobs on a cool or insufficiently heated grill will prevent them from developing that desirable char and can lead to uneven cooking, leaving your vegetables limp and your sausage lacking that smoky exterior.
• Properly Soak Wooden Skewers. If you opt for wooden or bamboo skewers, it’s crucial to soak them in warm water for at least 20 to 30 minutes prior to threading. This prevents them from charring or burning entirely over the hot flames of the grill, ensuring your delicious ingredients stay securely in place. For more detailed instructions on soaking skewers and alternative options, read this guide. As an excellent alternative, metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill. Give your kabobs space! Overcrowding the grill lowers its temperature and causes the food to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less flavorful and less attractive product. Grill in batches if necessary, allowing enough space around each skewer for even heat distribution and proper charring.

Sausage Kabobs Variation Ideas: Customize Your Skewers

One of the best aspects of kabobs is their incredible versatility. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Here are some inspiring variation ideas to make these sausage kabobs uniquely yours:

• Experiment with Different Vegetables. While our chosen vegetable medley is fantastic, feel free to swap in your favorite veggies. The key is to ensure all vegetables are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly alongside the sausage. Excellent choices that grill well at similar rates include: thin coins of corn on the cob, vibrant cherry tomatoes (add these towards the end if you prefer them less cooked), thinly sliced zucchini or yellow squash, and cubed eggplant. For an extra pop of color and sweetness, consider adding pineapple chunks or peach slices during the last few minutes of grilling.
• Switch Out the Sausage Type. This recipe is designed to be flexible. If smoked turkey sausage isn’t your preference, there’s a wide world of smoked sausages to explore! Try a savory smoked pork sausage, a lean chicken sausage, or a hearty beef sausage. For those following specific dietary plans, such as Whole30, a variety of compliant sausages are available. Here is a helpful listing of Whole30-compliant sausages to guide your selection. You can even combine different types of sausage for a mixed grill experience.
• Play with Seasoning Blends. Our suggested seasoning blend offers a wonderful baseline, but your spice cabinet holds endless possibilities! To add a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. For a deeper, more savory onion flavor, a pinch of onion powder can make a big difference. Craving an Italian-inspired twist? Incorporate dried basil and/or dried thyme into the mix. You could also venture into smoky paprika, cumin, and a hint of chili powder for a Tex-Mex flavor profile, or a dash of ginger and five-spice powder for an Asian influence. The grill loves bold flavors, so don’t be shy!
• Add a Citrusy Boost. Before grilling, a splash of freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice over your kabobs can brighten the flavors significantly. The acidity not only tenderizes the vegetables slightly but also adds a refreshing zest that complements both the sausage and the rich char of the grill.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage Kabobs

Sausage Kabobs are undeniably delicious served hot off the grill, enjoyed simply as they are. However, they also pair exceptionally well with a variety of complementary sauces and side dishes that can elevate your meal. (Please note that some of the suggested sauces may not be suitable for Whole30 diets.)

• For a classic and kid-friendly pairing, my children are absolutely obsessed with dipping these kabobs in good old (Heinz®) ketchup. I must admit, it’s a nostalgic and satisfying combination that I enjoy too!
• A tangy and creamy Dijonnaise offers a sophisticated complement to the smoky sausage and grilled vegetables. To whip up a quick and delightful Dijonnaise, simply whisk together 1/3 cup of good quality Dijon mustard, 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl.
• Alternatively, a sweet and savory honey mustard sauce creates a fantastic counterpoint to the robust flavors of the kabobs. Our favorite speedy honey mustard recipe involves whisking together 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1-1/2 teaspoons of yellow mustard, 3/4 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1-1/2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of honey BBQ sauce, and a dash of salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl.

Beyond the delightful array of sauces, these versatile Sausage Kabobs pair wonderfully with a fresh, crisp side salad. We particularly love serving them alongside this crunchy Cucumber Salad, a vibrant Healthy Italian Salad, or a refreshing spiralized cucumber salad inspired by Olive Garden dressing. For heartier sides, consider a light quinoa salad, a simple bed of couscous, or grilled corn on the cob to round out your summer feast. These kabobs are also fantastic when deconstructed and served over rice or in warm pita bread.

More Irresistible Recipes for the Grill:

Embrace the joy of outdoor cooking with these additional grilling favorites that are perfect for any occasion:

• Tin Foil Jambalaya – a flavorful one-pan meal with rice that cooks right in the foil packet, minimizing cleanup!
• Grilled Pineapple – a sweet and smoky dessert, heavenly when served with ice cream and a crumble topping.
• Grilled Steak Salad – a light yet satisfying meal featuring tender steak slices over fresh greens with a delightful sweet lemon-honey vinaigrette.
• Steak Marinade – discover our all-purpose steak marinade for juicy, flavorful steaks every time.
• Grilled Fajita Chicken – a vibrant dish packed with tender chicken, bell peppers, and onions, perfect for wraps or bowls.

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5 from 9 votes

Sausage Kabobs

By

Chelsea Lords

Sausage Kabobs are easy, flavorful, and packed with goodness! Smoked sausage, bell peppers, red onion, and baby bella mushrooms are perfectly seasoned for a quick, tasty meal.

Prep Time:

25
minutes

Cook Time:

8
minutes

Total Time:

33
minutes

Servings:

4
servings

Video

Watch the full recipe video here for visual guidance.

Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Ingredients

• 1
  (13-ounce) package
  smoked sausage
  cut in 1-1/2 inch pieces (turkey sausage recommended)
• 3
  bell peppers
  (red, green, and orange), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2
  of a large
  red onion
  cut into 1-inch pieces
• 10
  large
  baby bella mushrooms
  (whole or halved)
• 4
  tablespoons
  olive oil
• 2
  teaspoons
  dried oregano
• 1
  tablespoon
  dried parsley flakes
• 1/2
  teaspoon
  garlic powder
• 1
  teaspoon
  paprika
• 1
  teaspoon
  salt
• 1/2
  teaspoon
  pepper
• Vegetable oil
  for grilling
• Coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley
  (optional, for garnish)
• Sauce for serving
  (optional, see note 1)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat (aim for about 450–500°F). If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 20–30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
2. Prepare your ingredients: Cut the smoked sausage into 1 to 1-1/2 inch thick coins. Slice the bell peppers and red onion into uniform 1-inch pieces. If using large baby bella mushrooms, cut them in half; leave smaller mushrooms whole.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the cut vegetables and sausage. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried parsley flakes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper (adjusting to your taste). Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Carefully thread the seasoned veggies and sausage onto your prepared skewers, alternating ingredients for an attractive and even cook. Don’t pack them too tightly, allowing space for the heat to circulate.
5. Prepare the grill grates: Soak a paper towel in vegetable oil, roll it up, and using long tongs, rub it along the cleaned and fully heated grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the loaded skewers on the hot grill, close the lid, and cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Flip them carefully and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sausage has developed beautiful char marks.
6. Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill. If desired, garnish with some fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley. Serve immediately, either as is or with your preferred sauce (refer to note 1 for suggestions). Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: While these kabobs are delicious on their own, they are also wonderful with a dipping sauce! My kids absolutely love pairing these with ketchup. Here are 2 other sauce options:

• To make a quick tangy Dijonnaise, whisk together 1/3 cup Dijon-style mustard, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl.
• For my favorite quick honey mustard sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1-1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard, 3/4 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1-1/2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon honey BBQ sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Note: Please be aware that the nutrition information provided does not include any optional sauces you might choose to add.

Storage: To store leftover kabobs, carefully remove the ingredients from the skewers and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
serving

|

Calories:
458
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
11
g

|

Protein:
14
g

|

Fat:
40
g

|

Saturated Fat:
11
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
4
g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
22
g

|

Cholesterol:
65
mg

|

Sodium:
791
mg

|

Potassium:
575
mg

|

Fiber:
3
g

|

Sugar:
5
g

|

Vitamin A:
2860
IU

|

Vitamin C:
118
mg

|

Calcium:
40
mg

|

Iron:
2
mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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