Oh man! I put this together for a gathering, and people devoured it instantly.

Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a delightful fusion of rustic Midwest flavors and the artful presentation of Hasselback cooking. These tasty bites capture the sweet and smoky essence that barbecue lovers crave, paired with the succulent, savory taste of kielbasa. Originating from traditional European sausage-making and combined with an American twist, this recipe is perfect for game day, parties, or just an exciting weekday dinner. These bites are not only delicious but also fun to make, allowing you to practice your knife skills and impress your guests with their unique presentation.

These Maple BBQ Hasselback Kielbasa Bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to balance the sweetness of the maple glaze. For a lighter option, a crisp coleslaw or a fresh garden salad would complement the smoky flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a true Midwest feast, add some baked beans or cornbread to round out the meal.

Servings: 4-6 servings

2 pounds kielbasa sausage
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cut the kielbasa into 2-3 inch pieces. Place each piece between two chopsticks or wooden spoons to act as guides and make thin, evenly spaced cuts along the length of the sausage, being careful not to slice all the way through. This creates the Hasselback effect.

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and olive oil to create the glaze.

Place the prepared kielbasas on the lined baking sheet and brush generously with the maple BBQ glaze, making sure to get some in between the slices for added flavor.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the kielbasa is browned and crispy on the edges, basting with additional glaze halfway through the cooking time.

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. If you prefer a different protein, try using bratwurst or Italian sausage instead of kielbasa. For a more substantial dish, serve the kielbasa bites over a bed of cheesy polenta or alongside some garlic roasted potatoes. Experiment with different types of barbecue sauces to find your perfect flavor profile.