Candied Kielbasa Bites Recipe

Introduction

Candied Kielbasa Bites are a deliciously sweet and savory appetizer perfect for gatherings or a quick meal. The rich glaze caramelizes beautifully on the sausage, creating irresistible bite-sized treats.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or casserole dish with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized rounds and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared dish.
3. Step 3: Prepare the glaze by combining brown sugar, honey, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the glaze evenly over the kielbasa slices, tossing gently to ensure each piece is coated.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sauce thickens and caramelizes onto the sausage.
6. Step 6: Serve the candied kielbasa bites warm, with toothpicks for easy snacking or over rice for a satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
• Use smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
• Try substituting honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Serve with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor variety.

Storage

Store leftover candied kielbasa bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to maintain the glaze’s texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and glaze the kielbasa ahead of time, then bake just before serving to keep them fresh and caramelized.

What can I use instead of kielbasa sausage?

Other smoked sausages like Andouille or smoked bratwurst work well and provide a similar texture and flavor.

Candied Kielbasa Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

These Candied Kielbasa Bites offer a sweet and savory flavor combination with a sticky, caramelized glaze perfectly baked onto tender slices of kielbasa sausage. Ideal for parties or as a quick meal option, this recipe features an easy-to-make glaze of brown sugar, honey, ketchup, and spices that create mouthwatering bite-sized appetizers.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sausage

• 2 pounds kielbasa sausage, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds

Glaze

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or casserole dish with foil to ensure easy cleanup after baking.
2. Prepare Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa sausage into ½-inch thick rounds and arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish to ensure even cooking and glazing.
3. Make Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the glaze is smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Coat Sausage: Pour the warm glaze evenly over the kielbasa slices, gently stirring or tossing them to coat all pieces thoroughly in the sticky sauce.
5. Bake: Bake the glazed kielbasa uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to redistribute the glaze and allow it to caramelize evenly over the sausage rounds.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. These candied kielbasa bites are perfect bites for parties when served with toothpicks or can be enjoyed over rice for a simple meal.

Notes

• You can substitute yellow mustard for Dijon if preferred for a milder flavor.
• Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of smoky flavor to the glaze.
• For easier cleanup, lining the baking dish with foil is recommended.
• These bites can be kept warm in a slow cooker on low if preparing ahead for a party.
• Serve with toothpicks to make them easy finger foods for gatherings.

Keywords: candied kielbasa bites, kielbasa appetizers, party bites, sweet and savory sausage, baked kielbasa, party food, easy appetizers