Ingredients
1.5 lbs smoked kielbasa sausage
12–16 slices bacon (thin-cut or regular)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1–2 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
1/2 tsp black pepper
~24-30 toothpicks
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil; if using foil, lightly spray with non-stick spray. For optimal crispiness, place a wire rack on the lined sheet.
2. Slice kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick (aim for 24-30 pieces).
3. Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise.
4. Wrap one half-slice of bacon around each kielbasa piece and secure with a toothpick through both ends of the bacon and the kielbasa.
5. Arrange bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet (or rack). Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar. Drizzle with maple syrup if using. Grind black pepper on top.
6. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and golden brown. Flip bites halfway through cooking (around 15-20 minutes) for even crisping. Watch closely during last 5-10 minutes to prevent burning.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving if desired, or leave them in for easy grabbing. Serve warm.
Notes
Choose thin-cut or regular bacon for best crispiness; avoid thick-cut. For extra crunch, use a baking rack and pat bacon dry before wrapping. Do not overcrowd the pan. Adjust sweetness by reducing brown sugar or syrup. To make ahead, assemble bites, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat leftovers in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 bites
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg