Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites combine the smoky and savory taste of kielbasa with the sweetness of pineapple for a flavorful appetizer or snack. The hasselback technique of slicing, but not all the way through, lets all of the delicious flavors of the sauce get into the sausage and in every bite-sized section! They are made in the air fryer, but can also be made in the oven. Once you taste how amazing these are, you will also want to try my Mustard Kielbasa Hasselback Bites, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: Kielbasa (sometimes also called ring sausage) is a flavorful, lightly smoked sausage that is pre-cooked. It is perfect for so many recipes, so be sure to check out more Kielbasa recipes after you make this one! You could also experiment with different varieties of sausage like Andouille sausage, Mexican Chorizo, or other sausages.
Pineapple: Look for a 20-ounce can of pineapple chunks to use in this recipe. You will use all of the pineapple, but just 1/2 cup of the juice. (You can drain the rest.) You could also use fresh pineapple, but you will also need juice.
Molasses: Molasses not only adds depth and richness but also helps to create a sticky glaze on the kielbasa bites.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar further sweetens the dish and complements the molasses.
How To Serve Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites are not only super flavorful, but they make a great presentation as well. Here is how to serve the bites:
- Toothpick Presentation: A really simple and handy way to serve these kielbasa bites is to stick toothpicks in them. This makes it easy to grab and munch on, especially if you’re having a casual get-together where you are serving finger foods.
- Platter or Tray: Arrange the skewered kielbasa bites on a platter or serving tray. Make sure to leave enough space between them for easy access.
- Garnish: Add a garnish for color and freshness. Freshly chopped parsley can provide a nice contrast to the savory and sweet flavors.
Storing & Reheating Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
If you have any leftover Kielbasa bites (and that is a big IF knowing how delicious they are) let them cool to room temperature. Then, store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3-4 days. Reheat the bites in the air fryer, in a microwave, or in the oven.
Hasselback Kielbasa
Pineapple Hasselback Kielbasa Bites
Ingredients
- 2 rings (13.9 ounces each) Kielbasa
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, ½ cup juice reserved, drain the rest
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch slices (about ⅔ of the way down), but not all the way through. If needed, place the kielbasa between two chopsticks and skewers. (These will prevent you from cutting through the kielbasa completely.) Using a sharp knife, slice in a downward motion, stopping at the chopsticks.
- Slice the sausage crosswise into 1-inch bite-sized pieces (about 3-4 rings per piece) for a total of about 20 bites per ring, or 40 for both rings. Place the bites and pineapple chunks into a large bowl.
- In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup pineapple juice, molasses, and brown sugar.
- Pour the sauce over the kielbasa bites and pineapple chunks. Gently toss the kielbasa bites to ensure the sauce coats each piece evenly, getting into the cut sections of the kielbasa.
- Arrange the kielbasa bites and pineapple in a single layer in the basket of your air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
- Air fry* at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the kielbasa and pineapple are browned and heated through.
- Remove the kielbasa and pineapple from the air fryer and set them on a large platter.
- Garnish with parsley (optional) and serve warm.
Video
Notes
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Kielbasa bites as instructed. Then, place each section onto the lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the kielbasa is browned.
- Serve garnished with parsley.
Did you make this recipe?
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This is such a great idea for a quick and easy appetizer. Sweet and salty is paired perfectly in these bites!
Elizabeth
I am so in love with all of our kielbasa bite recipes lately! This recipe is no exception with both a sweet and smoky flavor vibe. It's super easy and a unique appetizer to serve.
Rachael
The pineapple paired with the kielbasa is fantastic, and the caramelized outside from the air fryer is beautiful!
Annabelle
This is such an interesting flavor combination, and they're so easy to snack on! I would definitely recommend these for any gathering!
Bella
This is so good. I love the flavor pairing of the salty kielbasa and sweet pineapple. The air fryer perfectly crisps up the kielbasa and pineapple almost like it was grilled!
Selena
These are so snackable! I love how crispy they get in the air fryer and the hint of pineapple is just delicious.
We use bean and bacon soup, add carrots and potatoes and onion. It is delicious. Zi love the pineapple/molasses idea.