Description
These Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are a delicious and easy appetizer featuring juicy kielbasa sausage sliced Hasselback-style and paired with sweet pineapple chunks. Tossed in a flavorful molasses and brown sugar glaze, then cooked to perfection in either an air fryer or oven, these bites are perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage
- 2 rings (13.9 ounces each) Kielbasa
Fruit
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, ½ cup juice reserved, drained
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the Kielbasa: Place the kielbasa rings between two chopsticks or skewers to prevent slicing all the way through. Using a sharp knife, make ¼-inch deep slices about ⅔ of the way through each ring to create a Hasselback effect.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces: Slice the Hasselbacked kielbasa crosswise into 1-inch pieces, yielding approximately 20 bites per ring, or 40 pieces total.
- Prepare the Pineapple and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the kielbasa bites with the drained pineapple chunks. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the reserved ½ cup pineapple juice, molasses, and light brown sugar until smooth to create the glaze.
- Toss in Sauce: Pour the glaze over the kielbasa and pineapple mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the bites are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the kielbasa bites and pineapple in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Air fry for 7-9 minutes until the kielbasa is nicely browned and heated through. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Oven Method: Alternatively, preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the kielbasa bites and pineapple evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until browned and heated thoroughly.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cooked kielbasa bites to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Using chopsticks or skewers to hold the kielbasa prevents slicing all the way through, allowing the Hasselback effect.
- You can make the recipe using either the air fryer for a quick option or the oven for larger batches.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less molasses and brown sugar to taste.
- These bites are perfect for parties and can be kept warm in a low oven until serving.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
