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Kilted Sausage Bites are the perfect party appetizer or snack. Their blend of smoky, salty, and sweet flavors makes them simply irresistible, whether for a holiday party, family gathering, or casual game night. The crispy bacon wrapped around juicy sausage with a glaze that caramelizes during baking is a crowd-pleaser every time.
I first tried making this recipe for a potluck, and the plate was empty in minutes. Since then, it has been my go-to anytime I need something quick yet impressive.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa: This provides the savory base of the dish. Opt for high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor.
- 8 to 10 slices of bacon cut in half: The salty, crispy bacon pairs perfectly with the juicy sausage. Thicker bacon works well if you prefer a hearty texture.
- Toothpicks: These make the bites easy to handle and also keep the bacon in place.
- Sweet and Savory Glaze Options: ½ cup brown sugar or ¼ cup honey or ¼ cup maple syrup. Each glaze choice sweetens the bacon and helps it caramelize beautifully. Honey adds floral notes while maple syrup adds a warm depth.
- Optional: ½ teaspoon black pepper or chili flakes: These add a mild spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes. These can take the glaze to the next level with added zest, smokiness, and complexity.
How To Make Kilted Sausage Bites
- Slice the Sausage:
- Cut the smoked sausage or kielbasa into bite-sized pieces about 1½ inches thick. Uniformity ensures even cooking.
- Wrap with Bacon:
- Take the halved bacon slices and wrap one around each sausage piece, overlapping slightly. Secure with a toothpick to create the kilted effect.
- Position on Rack:
- Place the wrapped bites seam side down on a wire rack that is set over a baking sheet. This allows the fat to drip away while ensuring even cooking and crisp bacon.
- Add Glaze:
- Sprinkle brown sugar generously or drizzle with honey or maple syrup. If you like heat, add black pepper or chili flakes at this step.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes. Turn the bites halfway through baking to ensure every side gets crispy and caramelized.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the toothpicks for easy snacking.
One of my most-loved tips is using maple syrup for the glaze. That hint of deep sweetness beautifully complements the juicy sausage and crispy bacon.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to go bold, try turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork. For a non-sweet option, skip the glaze and rub the bites with garlic powder and smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hot as part of an appetizer platter or alongside dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce. They also work great as a snack with cold drinks or even brunch sides like eggs and hash browns.
These Kilted Sausage Bites are guaranteed to be a hit anytime you serve them. They are that perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and wow factor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use smoked sausage, kielbasa, or any pre-cooked sausage with a firm texture for this dish. Adjust the size of the slices to ensure even cooking.
- → What’s the best glaze for these bites?
Brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup all work well for the glaze. Combine these with optional spices like smoked paprika, black pepper, or chili flakes for added depth.
- → Can I prepare these bites in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
- → What’s the ideal way to cook the bites evenly?
Placing them on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows the bacon to crisp evenly while the fat drips away. Turning the bites midway ensures uniform cooking.
- → How can I make them spicier?
To add more heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce over the bites before baking. Adjust the spice to your preference.
- → Do I need to use toothpicks?
Toothpicks are highly recommended as they hold the bacon securely around the sausage and make for easy serving later.