These Savory Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a fun and tasty twist on classic kielbasa. The sausage slices are cut just right to let the mustard and seasoning seep in, creating little pockets of flavor that are hard to resist. Crisp edges and tender insides make every bite full of texture and zing from the mustard.
I love making these bites when friends come over because they’re easy to share and super satisfying. I usually brush on a good amount of mustard before baking—they soak into each slice and bring out the smoky, meaty taste perfectly. It’s simple to pull together but feels special enough for a party or even a weeknight snack.
These are great served warm with some crusty bread or alongside your favorite dipping sauce. I also like pairing them with a light salad or roasted veggies to balance all that savory flavor. Whenever I make these, people always ask for the recipe, so I’m pretty sure they’ll be a hit in your kitchen too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage is the star here. It’s juicy and flavorful on its own. If you can’t find kielbasa, smoked sausage or bratwurst can work well too.
Mustard: A mix of Dijon and whole grain mustard adds tangy depth and texture. If you’re out of Dijon, spicy brown mustard is a good backup.
Bacon: Wrapping the bites in thin-cut bacon adds crispiness and smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative but may be less fatty and crispy.
Spices: Smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder bring warmth and subtle smoky notes. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder works.
How Do You Master the Hasselback Cut Without Slicing All the Way Through?
The technique is key for letting the mustard and flavors seep in without falling apart. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Place each sausage piece between two chopsticks or wooden spoons to act as guards. This stops your knife from cutting all the way through.
- Make thin cuts, almost like accordion slits, about ⅛ to ¼ inch apart. Take your time—the thinner the slices, the crispier the edges.
- Don’t push the sausage apart; keep the slices connected at the base so the bacon can wrap neatly around.
Practicing this once helps a lot, and it’s worth the effort since the cuts soak up all the mustard and spice flavors perfectly!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use this because it holds all the bites and helps them crisp up evenly.
- Chopsticks or wooden spoons – these act as guides to make Hasselback cuts without slicing all the way through.
- Sharp knife – essential for making thin, controlled cuts on the sausage.
- Pastry brush or spoon – for spreading the mustard mixture over the sausage slices.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – keeps the baking sheet clean and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy sausage instead of kielbasa for an extra kick – it adds heat and bold flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of grated cheese like cheddar or pepper jack on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for melty goodness.
- Mix fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the mustard blend for more herby aroma and flavor.
- Replace bacon with prosciutto slices for a lighter, elegant touch that still adds savory note.
Savory Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large kielbasa sausages
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 8 slices of bacon (thin cut)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Mustard or honey mustard sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting these tasty bites ready takes about 15 minutes to prep plus 25-30 minutes to bake. So, plan for roughly 40-45 minutes total from start to finish. The hands-on part is easy and quick, and the oven does most of the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier.
2. Slice the Kielbasa:
Cut the kielbasa sausages into bite-sized pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. These will be the perfect size for an appetizer.
3. Make the Mustard Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Create Hasselback Cuts:
Carefully slice each kielbasa piece thinly without cutting all the way through, making accordion-like slits. This lets the flavors soak inside while keeping the sausage intact.
5. Add the Mustard Mix and Wrap with Bacon:
Brush the mustard-spice mixture generously into each slit and over the whole piece. Then, wrap each kielbasa bite with a slice of bacon, tucking the end underneath to keep it secure.
6. Bake:
Place the wrapped bites on your baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, let the bites cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve warm with your favorite mustard or honey mustard dipping sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Kielbasa for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the kielbasa fully in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and prepping. This helps the sausage cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer not to use bacon, thinly sliced prosciutto or turkey bacon works well as alternatives. Keep in mind they may not crisp up exactly the same but will still add great flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bites and refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours before cooking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.