Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe

If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings a perfect blend of tang, sweetness, and savory goodness, look no further than this Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe. This delightful dish features perfectly sliced kielbasa, infused with a tangy, slightly sweet mustard glaze that seeps into every crease, creating a tender yet nicely caramelized bite every time. It’s insanely flavorful, simple to prepare, and makes an irresistible finger food for any party or casual gathering.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be minimal, but each one plays a crucial role in building the iconic flavors and irresistible texture of the Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe. From the smoky sausage to the zingy mustard glaze, every element enhances the overall bite.

• Kielbasa (2 rings, about 13.9 ounces each): The star of the dish that brings smoky, savory flavor and juicy texture.
• Coarse ground Dijon mustard (¼ cup): Adds a sharp, tangy kick essential for that signature mustard glaze.
• Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons): Offers a subtle acidity to balance the sweetness and enhance the mustard’s flavor.
• Light brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides just the right amount of sweetness to caramelize around the edges.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and umami to elevate the mustard glaze.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Creates a creamy, cooling dipping sauce to complement the bold bites.
• Parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright visual pop and mild herbaceous note to finish.

How to Make Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Kielbasa

Start by slicing the kielbasa carefully but not all the way through. The trick is to place two chopsticks or wooden skewers alongside the sausage, then slice in between them with a sharp knife. This technique creates those beautiful Hasselback cuts that let the mustard sauce seep in and flavor every bite without breaking the sausage apart.

Step 2: Cut Into Bite-Sized Pieces

Next, go crosswise and slice the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces so that each section has about three of the Hasselback slices. This ensures perfect portion sizes that are both easy to pick up and allow the sauce to cling to every crevice.

Step 3: Whip Up the Mustard Glaze and Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Divide this mixture into two bowls. To one bowl, stir in mayonnaise to make a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that balances the glaze’s tanginess wonderfully.

Step 4: Coat the Kielbasa Bites with Mustard Glaze

Pour or brush about half of the plain mustard mixture over the kielbasa bites, making sure plenty of the sauce slips into the cuts. This step infuses flavor and helps caramelize the sausage as it cooks.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Arrange the coated sausage bites in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook in batches. Air fry at 400°F for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Step 6: Finish with More Sauce and Garnish

Remove the golden bites from the fryer and transfer them to a serving plate or baking sheet. Drizzle the remainder of the mustard glaze on top to coat while still warm, then garnish generously with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color.

How to Serve Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but feel free to add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or thinly sliced green onions. These simple additions brighten up the dish visually and enhance the layered flavors brilliantly.

Side Dishes

These zesty kielbasa bites pair beautifully with crisp, fresh side salads—think tangy coleslaw or a crunchy cucumber salad. They also complement warm sides like garlic mashed potatoes or creamy mac and cheese for hearty, satisfying meals.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve the Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe on a large wooden board surrounded by bowls of the creamy dipping sauce and other condiments like pickles or spicy mustard. Skewer individual bites with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Alternatively, layer the bites over a bed of sautéed onions or roasted peppers to add depth and a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover kielbasa bites keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cuts may soak up more sauce as they sit, so the texture may soften but the flavor deepens.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked bites individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. This makes a perfect ready-to-reheat snack whenever cravings hit.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without drying out. You can also microwave if in a hurry, although the texture will be less crisp.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can bake the Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly.

What type of mustard works best?

Coarse ground Dijon mustard gives the perfect balance of tang and texture, but you can experiment with yellow or whole grain mustard depending on your flavor preference.

Is it possible to use another sausage for this recipe?

Yes! While kielbasa is traditional and ideal for its smoky flavor and sturdy texture, you can swap in bratwurst or andouille sausage for a different twist.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, both the mustard glaze and the mayo-based dipping sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the fridge to save time on serving day.

Are these bites kid-friendly?

Definitely! The sweet and tangy profile is usually a hit with kids, especially when served with the creamy dipping sauce that mellows out the tanginess.

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe, it’s guaranteed to become your go-to appetizer for every occasion. The ease of preparation combined with that playful, irresistible combination of tangy mustard and smoky sausage is pure magic. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and enjoy these flavorful bites that are as fun to make as they are to eat!

Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 61 reviews

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 40 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

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Description

These Mustard Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a flavorful and visually appealing appetizer featuring sliced kielbasa sausage coated in a tangy mustard sauce, then air fried to perfection. The recipe includes a zesty mustard glaze and a creamy dipping sauce, making them perfect for parties or game day snacks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sausage

• 2 rings (13.9 ounces each) Kielbasa

Mustard Sauce

• ¼ cup (62 g) coarse ground Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Dipping Sauce

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Garnish

• Chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Kielbasa: Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch thick slices, but do not cut all the way through. To achieve this, place the kielbasa between two chopsticks or skewers which will act as a barrier to prevent the knife from slicing all the way through. Use a sharp knife and slice downward stopping at the chopsticks.
2. Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Slice the sausage crosswise into 1-inch wide pieces, resulting in bite-sized sections (about three slices per piece). You should have approximately 20 bites per ring, or 40 bites total for both rings. Place these pieces into a large bowl or on a baking sheet.
3. Make Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the coarse ground Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to create the mustard glaze.
4. Divide the Sauce: Split the mustard sauce mixture evenly into two separate bowls.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce: To one of the bowls of mustard sauce, add the mayonnaise and stir to combine thoroughly. Cover this bowl and store it in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the bites.
6. Coat Kielbasa Bites: Pour or brush about half of the other plain mustard sauce over the kielbasa bites, making sure to get the sauce between each sliced section to fully infuse the flavor. Reserve the remaining sauce for after cooking.
7. Arrange for Air Frying: Place the coated kielbasa bites in a single layer into the basket of your air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
8. Air Fry: Cook the bites in the air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 7 to 9 minutes or until the kielbasa is browned to your liking. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
9. Finish and Serve: Remove the kielbasa bites from the air fryer and arrange them on a platter or baking sheet. Pour or brush the remaining reserved mustard sauce over the hot bites for extra flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with the chilled mayonnaise-based dipping sauce on the side.

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Notes

• Placing chopsticks or skewers on either side of the kielbasa helps prevent cutting all the way through, giving the classic hasselback effect.
• If you do not have an air fryer, these bites can be baked in a conventional oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• The mustard sauce can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated for better flavor melding.
• Adjust the brown sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter or more tangy glaze.
• Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.