Description
These Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are the ultimate quick and savory appetizer. Smoked sausage is sliced Hasselback-style, coated in a tangy maple barbecue glaze, and air-fried or oven-baked to caramelized perfection. This recipe is an easy win for parties, family dinners, or game-day snacks—ideal for beginner cooks looking for bold flavor with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 rings (13.9 ounces each) kielbasa
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the Sausage: Position the kielbasa between two chopsticks or wooden spoons to prevent cutting all the way through. Slice into ¼-inch deep slits using the Hasselback method. Then cut the sausage crosswise into 1-inch pieces to form bite-sized rounds.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup until smooth and fully combined. This mixture will be used in two parts—for marinating and finishing.
- Coat the Kielbasa: Place the sliced sausage pieces into a large mixing bowl. Pour half of the sauce over them and toss to evenly coat all surfaces.
- Cook the Bites: Arrange the coated sausage pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Air fry at 400°F for 7–9 minutes, shaking halfway through. If using an oven, bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes until the bites are browned.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, place the bites on a serving platter and brush with the remaining sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm with extra sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use honey as a maple syrup substitute if needed. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. To prevent sticking in the air fryer, lightly spray the basket with oil. These bites are great reheated and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes (air fryer) or 18–20 minutes (oven)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer or Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kielbasa bite
- Calories: 66
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg