These Savory Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are little flavor bombs featuring juicy slices of kielbasa sausage, each one cut in the classic hasselback style to hold a zesty mustard glaze that crisps up beautifully as it bakes. The combination of smoky sausage and tangy mustard makes for a snack that’s both simple and impressive.
I love making these bites for casual get-togethers or even just an easy weeknight appetizer. The hasselback cuts let the mustard and any seasonings soak in, giving every piece a punch of flavor. Plus, they’re a fun twist on plain kielbasa, which I always find makes people smile when they see them on the plate.
My favorite way to serve these is straight from the oven while they’re still warm and slightly crispy on the edges. They’re perfect for munching alongside some crunchy veggies or a dipping sauce, and they work great for parties because folks can grab them one by one without mess. Honestly, they always disappear fast whenever I bring them out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage brings great flavor and texture. If you can’t find kielbasa, you can use andouille or smoked sausage instead. Just pick a sturdy sausage that holds up to baking.
Mustard: Dijon and whole grain mustards give a nice tang and texture here. If you prefer less spice, swap Dijon with yellow mustard or honey mustard for a milder taste. I personally like using both to balance boldness and creaminess.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A little sweetness balances the mustard’s sharpness. You can substitute with brown sugar or agave syrup. Maple syrup adds a subtle earthy flavor, which I enjoy.
Smoked Paprika & Garlic Powder: These add warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder will also work well.
Fresh Parsley: The parsley adds a fresh, bright finish. You can swap this with chives or green onions for a slightly different herbal note.
How Do You Make Perfect Hasselback Cuts on Kielbasa?
Hasselback slicing is key to letting the glaze seep in and giving crispy edges without falling apart. Here’s how I do it:
- Slice the kielbasa into about 1-inch thick rounds first. This size holds up well and fits nicely on the baking sheet.
- Place each slice flat on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife and make 3-4 shallow cuts across the top, spaced evenly.
- Be careful not to cut all the way through—stop just before the bottom so the slice stays together.
- The cuts create little pockets for the mustard glaze to settle in and crisp up during baking.
- If you want extra stability, you can place each slice between two chopsticks while cutting to avoid slicing through.
These small details make the snack both tender inside and delightfully crisp on the outside. It’s a simple trick that really lifts the whole dish!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use this to roast the kielbasa evenly and ensure crispy edges.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – these help make clean Hasselback cuts without slipping.
- Small bowl – for whisking together the mustard glaze; easy to clean and handle.
- Pastry brush or spoon – to evenly spread the glaze over the cuts on each kielbasa piece.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – keeps cleanup simple and prevents sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss between the cuts before baking for gooey, melty bits.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne, cumin, or chili powder for extra heat and smokiness.
- Veggies: Top with caramelized onions or sautéed peppers for added sweetness and texture.
- Herbs & Glazes: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or sprinkle with fresh thyme for a burst of fresh flavor.
How to Make Savory Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 links kielbasa sausage (about 16 oz total)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Additional Dijon mustard, for drizzling and dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. In around half an hour, you’ll have delicious, crispy kielbasa bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Kielbasa:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the kielbasa pieces don’t stick. Slice each kielbasa link into pieces about 1 inch thick.
2. Make the Hasselback Cuts:
Lay each kielbasa slice flat on a cutting board. Make 3-4 small cuts across the top of each slice, spacing them evenly. Be careful not to slice all the way through — you want the piece to stay together so the slices fan slightly.
3. Mix and Apply the Mustard Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using a pastry brush or spoon, gently spread the mustard glaze between each cut and over the surface of every kielbasa piece.
4. Bake and Finish:
Arrange the kielbasa pieces on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is heated through and the edges turn crispy and golden. You can brush more glaze on halfway through baking if you like it extra flavorful.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the kielbasa bites from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle extra Dijon mustard over the top and sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with any remaining mustard glaze on the side for dipping.
Enjoy these tasty mustard-packed kielbasa bites as a perfect snack or appetizer! They are simple to make and sure to please any crowd.
Can I Use Frozen Kielbasa for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the kielbasa completely in the fridge overnight before slicing and preparing the hasselback cuts. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon or whole grain mustard, yellow mustard or honey mustard works fine—though the flavor will be milder and less tangy. You can also try mixing some spicy brown mustard for a bit more kick.
How Should I Store Leftover Kielbasa Bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Add Cheese or Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack between the hasselback cuts before baking, or add caramelized onions for a tasty twist. Just be mindful of any extra moisture that could affect crispiness.
