Sweet & Sticky Candied Kielbasa Bites
If you’ve ever attended a family get-together, game-day celebration, or potluck, chances are you’ve spotted a slow cooker quietly bubbling away in the corner, filled with something warm, sticky, and totally irresistible. For me, that dish was usually candied kielbasa bites—smoky slices of sausage coated in a shiny, sweet-and-savory glaze that hugs every piece. These aren’t just appetizers; they’re the kind of snack that keeps everyone hovering near the food table long after they’ve promised, “Just one more.”
I first stumbled upon this recipe years ago when I needed a quick holiday appetizer at the last minute. With kielbasa in the fridge and a few pantry basics—brown sugar, ketchup, and mustard—I threw something together on a whim. The result was so delicious that I wrote it down immediately, and it’s been a crowd favorite ever since. What makes it so special? A short ingredient list, simple prep, and flavor that tastes far more indulgent than the effort involved.
These candied kielbasa bites are perfect for entertaining. You can make them ahead of time, keep them warm in a slow cooker, and serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. They’re also easy to customize—add more sweetness, a touch of spice, or a hint of smokiness to match your crowd’s tastes. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly appetizer that feeds a group, this one never disappoints.
From holiday feasts to Super Bowl parties to cozy movie nights at home, these bites deserve a regular spot on your menu.
Candied Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kielbasa sausage | 2 pounds |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Prepared horseradish | 1/4 cup |
How to Make Candied Kielbasa Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Slice
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the kielbasa into 1-inch thick rounds.
Step 2: Hasselback Method
Place each piece between two chopsticks or wooden skewers. Slice into 1/4-inch sections, letting the sticks stop your knife so you don’t cut all the way through. Each piece should have about three connected sections at the base.
Step 3: Coat with Sauce
Transfer the sliced kielbasa to a baking dish. Add brown sugar, ketchup, and prepared horseradish. Stir until each piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake and Caramelize
Bake for 60–90 minutes, stirring every 20 minutes so the sauce caramelizes evenly and the sausage browns. Longer cooking creates a stickier, crispier finish.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy grabbing and enjoy!
