These Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are fun little sausages that are easy to make. Just slice them up slightly, and watch them puff and crisp up in the oven!
They’re like little flavor explosions! Perfect for snack time or game day. I can’t resist dipping them in mustard or my favorite sauce—so tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage is the star of the dish. You can substitute with smoked sausage or turkey kielbasa if you’re looking for a lighter option. Both give great flavor!
Bacon: I use regular sliced bacon for its rich taste. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even veggie bacon can work well here. Just expect a different texture.
Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness. You can swap it for honey or maple syrup if you prefer. Adjust the amount to taste!
Cheese: Cheddar is optional, but it really elevates the bites. Feel free to use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Kielbasa Bites Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy outer layer on your Hasselback Kielbasa Bites comes down to a couple of simple tricks. First, ensure your bacon is wrapped tightly around each piece. This helps it crisp as it cooks.
- Preheat your oven properly. A hot oven helps the bacon cook fast.
- Use a wire rack inside your baking tray if possible. It allows hot air to circulate around the bites, helping them crisp up all over.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them some breathing room for even cooking.
If the bacon isn’t crispy enough at the end of baking, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Delicious Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 kielbasa sausages (about 14-16 ounces total)
- 6 slices bacon (cut in half)
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
For Serving:
- Ranch dressing or mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. Total time comes to around 40 minutes, which is perfect for a quick and delicious snack for gatherings or game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the bacon crisp up nicely! While that’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, which will make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cut the Kielbasa:
Next, take your kielbasa sausages and chop them into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 inches long. This size helps them cook quickly and makes for easy snacking!
3. Create the Hasselback Design:
Now for the fun part—make thin slices across each piece of kielbasa, about 3/4 of the way down. This will create a nice ‘hasselback’ effect but make sure you don’t cut all the way through!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each piece of kielbasa, tucking the ends underneath to secure it. This will not only add flavor but also keep the kielbasa juicy!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped kielbasa bites on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not too crowded so they have room to crisp up.
6. Mix Up the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. Mix it well to combine all the flavors.
7. Season the Bites:
Sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over each bacon-wrapped kielbasa bite. This will add a delicious burst of flavor as they bake!
8. Bake to Crispy Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is crispy and the kielbasa is heated through.
9. Optional Cheese Topping:
If you like cheese, this is the time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top of the bites in the last 3-5 minutes of baking. It adds a gooey, melty goodness!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the bites from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
11. Dip & Enjoy!
Serve your Hasselback Kielbasa Bites warm with ranch dressing or mustard for dipping, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful snack!
These bites are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is delicious, you can substitute it with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even veggie sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the sausage you choose.
How Do I Store Leftover Kielbasa Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Make These Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the kielbasa bites up to a day in advance. Just wrap them in bacon and store them in the fridge. Bake them right before serving for the best results!
What Dipping Sauces Work Best?
Ranch dressing and mustard are classics, but you can also try BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard for a sweet and spicy kick. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!