If you love sweet and savory snacks, this Candied Kielbasa Bites Recipe is perfect for you. These little bites are easy to make and packed with flavor.
The sausage pieces are caramelized in a sweet glaze that melts in your mouth. You can serve them at parties, family dinners or just as a quick snack. This recipe is simple, quick and requires only a few ingredients.
If you are wondering how to make Candied Kielbasa Bites, this guide will help you step by step. You will also find helpful tips for perfect results every time. Everyone will love these tasty bites.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made candied kielbasa bites for a small gathering at home. I wanted something quick, tasty and easy to share. The glaze was sweet but not too sticky and the sausages were perfectly cooked.
Everyone asked for the recipe. I realized this is a snack that works for any occasion. The best part is it takes less than 30 minutes to make. Even beginners in the kitchen can handle it. Now, I make this recipe whenever I need a fast, delicious appetizer.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Candied Kielbasa Bites
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Course: Appetizer / Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Frying pan or skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Plate or serving dish
Ingredients You Need for Candied Kielbasa Bites
- 1 pound (450 g) kielbasa sausage
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Slice the Kielbasa
Cut the kielbasa into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Keep them even for even cooking. - Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder and black pepper. - Heat the Pan
Add butter to a frying pan. Melt on medium heat until bubbly and warm. - Cook the Sausage
Add kielbasa slices. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly browned and edges get crisp. - Add the Glaze
Pour glaze over the kielbasa. Stir well to coat each piece evenly with the sweet mixture. - Caramelize the Bites
Cook another 5 minutes, stirring often. The glaze will thicken and caramelize around the sausage. - Check Doneness
Make sure the kielbasa is cooked through. Glaze should be sticky but not burnt. - Serve Immediately
Transfer bites to a serving dish. Optional: sprinkle with chopped parsley for color and flavor. - Enjoy Your Snack
Eat warm for best flavor. These bites are perfect as finger food or an appetizer.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh kielbasa for the best flavor.
- Cut slices evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Stir the glaze continuously to prevent burning.
- You can add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on low heat.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied kielbasa bites with toothpicks for easy snacking. They pair well with dipping sauces like barbecue or honey mustard.
These bites also go nicely with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. They are perfect for game nights, potlucks or holiday parties. Warm them slightly before serving to keep the glaze sticky and flavorful.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Coleslaw
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Pretzel sticks or crackers
- Dipping sauces like mustard or honey
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve glaze and texture. Avoid microwaving too long, or glaze may become runny. You can also freeze cooked bites without glaze and add the glaze fresh when reheating.
Candied Kielbasa Bites Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound 450 g kielbasa sausage
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Slice the Kielbasa
- Cut the kielbasa into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Keep them even for even cooking.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Heat the Pan
- Add butter to a frying pan. Melt on medium heat until bubbly and warm.
Cook the Sausage
- Add kielbasa slices. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly browned and edges get crisp.
Add the Glaze
- Pour glaze over the kielbasa. Stir well to coat each piece evenly with the sweet mixture.
Caramelize the Bites
- Cook another 5 minutes, stirring often. The glaze will thicken and caramelize around the sausage.
Check Doneness
- Make sure the kielbasa is cooked through. Glaze should be sticky but not burnt.
Serve Immediately
- Transfer bites to a serving dish. Optional: sprinkle with chopped parsley for color and flavor.
Enjoy Your Snack
- Eat warm for best flavor. These bites are perfect as finger food or an appetizer.
Notes
- Use fresh kielbasa for the best flavor.
- Cut slices evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Stir the glaze continuously to prevent burning.
- You can add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on low heat.
FAQs about Candied Kielbasa Bites
Q1: Can I use smoked sausage instead of kielbasa?
Yes, smoked sausage works well. Just follow the same steps, and the flavor will be rich and smoky.
Q2: Can I make these bites less sweet?
Absolutely. Reduce brown sugar and honey slightly. The bites will stay flavorful without being too sugary.
Q3: Are these bites suitable for kids?
Yes, they are sweet, savory and mild. Avoid chili flakes if making for young children.
Q4: Can I make these in the oven?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. Toss with glaze halfway for even coating.
Q5: How do I keep the glaze from burning?
Cook on medium heat and stir constantly. Remove from heat once glaze thickens and sticks to the sausage.
Conclusion
This Candied Kielbasa Bites Recipe is a simple, quick, and delicious snack. It combines sweet, savory and slightly crispy flavors in every bite. With just a few ingredients and 25 minutes, you can make a tasty treat for family, friends or parties.
These bites are easy to customize with extra spices or dipping sauces. Once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite appetizer in your home. Serve warm, enjoy the sticky glaze and share the joy with everyone around you.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
