These Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a fun and tasty treat! The sausage is sliced into thin, fan-like pieces, soaking in sweet and smoky BBQ sauce.
Perfect for parties or snack time, these bites disappear fast. Trust me, you’ll be licking your fingers and wishing you made more! 🍴
I love serving them with toothpicks for easy eating. They’re a hit at every gathering, and everyone enjoys the crispy edges with that sweet glaze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage is the star of the dish. If you’re not a fan of kielbasa, turkey or chicken sausages work well, too. Just look for a smoked variety to maintain the flavor profile.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a rich sweetness. If you need a substitute, honey or agave syrup can also work, but they’ll change the flavor a bit. I always choose real maple syrup for the best taste!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade one if you have a recipe! If you’re avoiding sugar, there are sugar-free BBQ sauces available, or you can use a tangy mustard for a different twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice kick to the glaze. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can be good alternatives. Just adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika enhance the flavors. You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika, but you’ll miss that smoky depth.
How Do I Perfectly Cut Hasselback Kielbasa?
Making Hasselback cuts takes a bit of practice but is worth it. The goal is to have even slices that stay connected. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Lay the kielbasa on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a series of vertical cuts about 1/4 inch apart. Stop about 1/4 inch from the bottom to keep the rounds intact.
- Once all cuts are made, gently fan the sausage. This creates a beautiful shape that holds the glaze well and cooks evenly!
Take your time with the slicing! It helps the glaze penetrate into the kielbasa for more flavor. And don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure about cutting safely!
Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kielbasa Bites:
- 1 pound kielbasa (Polish sausage)
For the Maple BBQ Glaze:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Toothpicks (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking time. In total, you will need around 35 minutes to have these scrumptious Kielbasa Bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step will help ensure your kielbasa bites cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization!
2. Prepare the Kielbasa:
Next, slice your kielbasa into 1-inch thick rounds. Then, carefully make Hasselback cuts in each round. Cut horizontally, making sure not to slice all the way through so that the slices stay connected. This technique allows the glaze to seep in deliciously!
3. Make the Maple BBQ Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine maple syrup, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You’ll love the sweet and tangy smell!
4. Coat the Kielbasa:
Place the sliced kielbasa on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a brush, generously coat each slice with your tasty maple BBQ glaze. Make sure each one is nice and saucy to get the best flavors!
5. Bake and Baste:
Now it’s time to bake! Put your baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the kielbasa bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and baste with more glaze to enhance that caramelized goodness!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they are done baking, remove the kielbasa from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for some color and extra flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are ready to serve! Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy enjoyment. These delicious bites are perfect for a party or a fun appetizer—enjoy every sweet and savory bite!
Can I Substitute Kielbasa with Another Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage as a leaner option. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, since cooking times might vary slightly depending on the type of sausage you choose.
How to Store Leftover Kielbasa Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Can I Make the Maple BBQ Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a good stir and warm it slightly if it becomes too thick.
What Can I Serve with These Kielbasa Bites?
These bites are fantastic on their own, but if you want to add a side, consider serving them with a fresh salad, veggie sticks, or even some dip options like ranch or blue cheese dressing for extra flavor!
