These Candied Kielbasa Bites are the ultimate sweet-and-savory appetizer! Smoky sausage is sliced, coated in a caramelized sauce of brown sugar, ketchup, and a kick of horseradish, then baked until sticky, golden, and irresistible. Perfect for game day, parties, or holiday gatherings, these bites disappear fast wherever they’re served.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is for:
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Party hosts looking for a crowd-pleasing finger food.
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Game day snackers who love bold, addictive flavors.
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Busy cooks who want a simple, make-ahead appetizer.
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Meat lovers who crave smoky, caramelized bites with a little zing.
Why It’s Great
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Easy ingredients – Only 4 simple pantry staples needed.
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Big flavor – Sweet, smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy.
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Crowd favorite – Always a hit at potlucks and parties.
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Customizable – Adjust sweetness or heat to match your taste.
Ingredients
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2 lbs kielbasa sausage
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1 cup brown sugar
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½ cup ketchup
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¼ cup prepared horseradish
Instructions
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Preheat oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Slice kielbasa
Cut sausage into 1-inch pieces. -
Optional Hasselback cut
Place each sausage piece between two chopsticks or skewers. Slice into ¼-inch cuts without cutting all the way through. This allows the sauce to soak in deeply. -
Arrange & coat
Place sausage pieces in a baking dish. Add brown sugar, ketchup, and horseradish. Stir well until evenly coated. -
Bake & caramelize
Bake for 60–90 minutes, stirring every 20 minutes. Continue until the sauce caramelizes and the kielbasa edges turn golden brown. -
Serve
Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Baking dish
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Cutting board & knife
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Mixing spoon
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Optional: Chopsticks/skewers (for hasselback slicing)
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooled bites for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and caramelized.
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Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate (uncooked) up to 24 hours in advance, then bake before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use another sausage besides kielbasa?
Yes! Smoked sausage, andouille, or even hot dogs can be used.
2. How spicy are these bites?
The horseradish adds a mild kick, but you can add hot sauce or chili flakes for extra heat.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. What can I serve them with?
They pair perfectly with toothpicks as an appetizer, or alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
Conclusion
These Candied Kielbasa Bites are sticky, sweet, and smoky with just the right amount of tang. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or simply craving a bold snack, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Make a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes!
