About This Recipe
Sweet and Sticky Candied Kielbasa Bites are the ultimate appetizer! Smoky kielbasa sausage coated in a sweet and savory glaze, perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering.
Ingredients
- Kielbasa sausage - 2 pounds
- Brown sugar - 1 cup
- Ketchup - 1/2 cup
- Prepared horseradish - 1/4 cup
Kitchen Tools
Instructions
Chef's Tips
- Use a good quality kielbasa for the best flavor.
- Stir the bites every 20 minutes to ensure even caramelization.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Serve in a slow cooker on low heat to keep warm for parties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the kielbasa.
- Burning the glaze.
- Using too much sugar.
- Not scoring the kielbasa.
- Skipping the horseradish.
Variations
- Spicy Candied Kielbasa Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Honey Garlic Candied Kielbasa Bites: Replace the brown sugar with honey and add a clove of minced garlic to the glaze.
- Maple Candied Kielbasa Bites: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
- Bourbon Candied Kielbasa Bites: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze.
- Smoked Paprika Candied Kielbasa Bites: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the glaze.
Storage & Freezing
Store leftover candied kielbasa bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet.
Conclusion
These sweet and sticky candied kielbasa bites are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, they’re sure to become a new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can make them ahead of time! Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days and reheat before serving.
While kielbasa is traditional, you can experiment with other smoked sausages like andouille or chorizo.
Absolutely! Minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, or bourbon are great additions to the glaze.
Use a non-stick baking dish and stir the bites every 20 minutes during cooking.
Yes, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks, or with dips like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
The recipe itself is gluten-free, but check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.