Easy Sweet and Sour Pork Skewers Recipe

40 minutes easy dinner ideas grilling recipes high protein meals pork recipes summer recipes

The first time I made these sweet and sour pork skewers, my husband actually paused mid-bite and said, “Okay, this one’s a keeper.” And honestly? I knew it was. The pork is juicy and savory, and that tangy-sweet glaze caramelizes just enough on the grill to make each bite ridiculously good.

It reminds me of our Friday takeout nights — but fresher, healthier, and so much more satisfying. Now it’s a go-to summer dinner when we want something fun, kid-friendly, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Skewers:

1.5 lbs pork shoulder or tenderloin, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak 30 mins in water)

For the Sweet and Sour Glaze:

¼ cup ketchup
¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

Instructions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, mix ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened (about 2–3 minutes). Set aside.
Toss the pork cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Assemble skewers: Alternate pork, peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks on each skewer.
Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until pork is cooked through (145°F inside).
Brush with glaze during the last few minutes of grilling, letting it caramelize slightly.
Serve hot, with extra glaze on the side if desired.

Sarah’s Tips

You can prep the skewers in the morning and keep them chilled until dinnertime — so easy when life gets busy!
No grill? Roast in the oven at 425°F for 20–25 minutes on a foil-lined sheet pan.
These pair beautifully with rice, cauliflower rice, or a fresh cucumber salad.