These Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a fun twist on a classic! Juicy kielbasa is sliced thinly and baked until crispy, perfect for snacking or as a party treat.
Plus, they’re super easy to make! Just slice, season, and pop them in the oven. You’ll be the hit of the gathering, and your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: The star of this dish! You can choose smoked or fresh kielbasa. If you want a different flavor, turkey or chicken sausage works as a leaner option.
Bacon: Regular or thick-cut bacon adds a nice crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon can be a good substitute, just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may cook faster.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Both add flavor, but for a richer taste, I prefer melted butter. For a vegan option, try using olive oil. It’s great for brushing over the bites to help the spices stick.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give depth. If you don’t have these, onion powder and regular paprika can replace them respectively. For a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper!
Brown Sugar: This is optional for caramelization. If you want a no-sugar option, substitute with a pinch of honey or leave it out altogether for a savory version.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Hasselback Style?
The Hasselback technique involves making thin cuts in the kielbasa. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sharp knife and slice the kielbasa into pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches long.
- Make thin slits across each piece, almost all the way through, without cutting it in half. This allows seasonings to soak in and helps the bacon wrap easily.
- Keep the spaces even for uniform cooking and flavor. It takes a little practice, but it’s worth it!
Cooking them at the right temperature helps the bacon crisp up nicely. Don’t forget to flip the bites halfway through baking for even crispiness! Happy cooking!
How to Make Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bites:
- 2 large kielbasa sausages
- 10 slices of bacon (enough to wrap each kielbasa piece)
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a slight caramelized sweetness)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Mustard or your favorite dipping sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake. So, overall, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes from start to enjoying these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your bites will cook evenly and get that nice crispy finish. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later on.
2. Slice the Kielbasa:
Take each kielbasa sausage and slice it into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches long. Be careful to make each slice even, this helps with cooking. On each piece, make thin cuts lengthwise, almost all the way through but don’t cut completely. This is the magic of the “Hasselback” style, allowing the flavors to seep in and the bacon to wrap securely.
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Now, cut each bacon slice in half. Grab your kielbasa pieces, and wrap each one with a half piece of bacon, securing the ends into the slits so they stay in place while baking.
4. Season the Bites:
Arrange your bacon-wrapped kielbasa on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and brown sugar (if using). Brush this tasty mixture evenly over each bite, ensuring you get some in between the slits for maximum flavor.
5. Baking Time:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the bites halfway through cooking to ensure they crisp up nicely on all sides. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing at this point!
6. Final Touches:
Once they’re golden and crispy, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 2-3 minutes. This helps them set a little. Then garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve those lovely bites warm with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for parties or just as a tasty snack! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional, you can use other types of sausage like smoked sausage or even chicken sausage for a leaner option. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly!
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No problem! You can skip the bacon entirely or use prosciutto for a different flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try wrapping the kielbasa in slices of zucchini or eggplant instead for a tasty alternative.
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the kielbasa bites and wrap them in bacon a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with Hasselback Kielbasa Bites?
These bites are delicious on their own but can be served with a variety of sides! Consider pairing them with a simple salad, veggie platter, or potato wedges. They also go great with dips like mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing!
