These Hasselback kielbasa bites are a fun twist on sausage! They’re sliced in a way that creates little pockets ready for all sorts of tasty flavors.
Perfect for snacks or game day treats, they’re easy to make and disappear quickly! I love serving them with toothpicks—it’s just too tempting not to grab a few! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: A classic choice for this dish, kielbasa gives a great flavor. If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey or chicken sausages work well too. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they can vary.
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for its flavor. If you’re after a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used, but it may not crisp up as nicely. For a twist, try using flavored bacon like applewood-smoked.
Brown Sugar: This adds a fun sweetness. If you prefer, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different kind of sweet touch. For a zero-calorie option, try a sugar substitute made for baking.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, normal paprika or chili powder can be used, but it won’t have the same smokiness. A touch of liquid smoke can also mimic the flavor.
How Do You Wrap Kielbasa with Bacon Perfectly?
Wrapping bacon around kielbasa takes a bit of technique to ensure even cooking. Follow these simple steps for success:
- Start by cutting the kielbasa into 1-inch rounds to allow for a good wrap.
- Use half slices of bacon to ensure it’s not overloaded so that it crisps nicely.
- Wrap the bacon tightly but not too tight—there needs to be a little space for the bacon to render fat and crisp up.
- Secure the ends with toothpicks to keep them in place while cooking.
By mastering these steps, you’ll get perfectly wrapped kielbasa bites with deliciously crispy bacon every time!
How to Make Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Wrapped in Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 large kielbasa sausage
- 8-10 slices of bacon (cut in half)
For Flavoring:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a sweet glaze)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
Others:
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll need about 40 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious bites! Perfect for a quick and tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the bacon gets nice and crispy while the kielbasa heats up. Also, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Kielbasa:
Next, take that fresh kielbasa and slice it into 1-inch thick rounds. This will give you the perfect size to wrap with bacon and ensure they cook nicely!
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Now, take each slice of kielbasa and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Make sure to secure the bacon in place with a toothpick, so it doesn’t unravel during cooking!
4. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar (if you’re using it), smoked paprika, coarse sea salt, and black pepper. Mix them well to make a flavorful seasoning for your bites.
5. Season the Bites:
Sprinkle or brush your seasoning mixture evenly over the wrapped kielbasa bites. This adds a delicious flavor that enhances the smoky bacon and savory sausage.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the kielbasa bites on your prepared baking sheet and place them in the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sausage is heated through. If you want it extra crispy, don’t hesitate to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on them!
7. Garnish & Serve:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the bites from the oven. Remove the toothpicks and garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Enjoy!
Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, like mustard or a creamy dip. These bites are perfect for sharing (or not!), so dig in and enjoy the tasty smoky, sweet, and savory flavors!
Can I Use Different Sausages?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional for this recipe, you can use any smoked sausage like andouille or turkey sausage. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness and type.
How Can I Make These Bite-Sized Treats Spicier?
If you want some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy version of kielbasa. You can also drizzle a bit of sriracha over the bites before serving for an extra kick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hasselback kielbasa bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick reheating!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bites in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
