Sweet, savory, and slightly spicy, these Candied Kielbasa Bites are perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacking. Each bite is coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, making them irresistible to guests and family alike.
Candied Kielbasa Bites transform a simple sausage into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The combination of brown sugar, honey, and horseradish gives a sweet-and-spicy kick, while Dijon mustard and garlic powder enhance the depth of flavor. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, they are a guaranteed hit for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep.
- Flavor-Packed: The glaze combines sweet, tangy, and spicy notes in every bite.
- Party-Friendly: Perfectly portioned with bite-sized slices and toothpicks for serving.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness or spice to your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa (Polish sausage), sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks for serving
Instructions Step by Step
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Glaze
In a medium mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, horseradish, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Coat the Kielbasa
Add the sliced kielbasa to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly in the glaze.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Spread the glazed kielbasa slices in a single layer to ensure even baking and caramelization.
5. Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the kielbasa is heated through and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Tips for the Best Candied Kielbasa Bites
- Slice the kielbasa evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Stir the glaze a few times during baking for extra caramelization.
- Adjust the horseradish to control the spice level.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Maple Twist: Substitute half of the honey with maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Herb-Infused: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the bites before baking for added aroma.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer with a dipping sauce such as honey mustard or spicy aioli.
- Great for holiday parties, game day spreads, or casual gatherings.
- Pair with a charcuterie board for a variety of flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the bites and glaze, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for best results.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, smoked sausage or andouille can be substituted, but cooking times may vary slightly.
Can these be made on the stovetop?
Yes, cook the kielbasa in a skillet over medium heat and stir frequently until the glaze caramelizes, about 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
Candied Kielbasa Bites are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. Perfect for entertaining or quick snacks, they are easy to prepare, fun to serve, and always a crowd-pleaser.