Spicy Maple Kielbasa

Name: Spicy Maple Kielbasa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb Kielbasa sausage; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 8

If you're yearning for a dish that brings warmth and a punch of flavor to your table, look no further than Spicy Maple Kielbasa. This recipe combines smoky, sweet, and spicy in a way that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make — on your table in under 45 minutes.
Uses simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
Great for meal prep — tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

1 lb Kielbasa sausage

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp salt

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating up, slice your Kielbasa into 1/2-inch rounds — this size allows for the perfect bite. Set them aside. Now, in a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt until well combined. This will be your flavorful glaze.

Grab a large oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute — you'll know it's ready when your kitchen smells amazing.

Now, add the Kielbasa slices to the skillet, stirring them in with the onions and garlic. Pour your prepared maple syrup mixture over the sausage, stirring everything to ensure each slice is well coated. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through to ensure even caramelization. Once done, the Kielbasa should be beautifully glazed and slightly caramelized. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Tricks

For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 2 minutes of baking.
If you like more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon.
Use a cast-iron skillet for even better caramelization.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Maple Kielbasa pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a more filling meal. If you're hosting a gathering, it makes a great appetizer served with toothpicks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of sausage?: Absolutely! Andouille or any smoked sausage would work well here.
Can this be made ahead of time?: Yes, it can be prepped and cooked a day in advance. Reheat on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?: You can use honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Ingredients Explained

Kielbasa sausage is the star here, bringing a smoky and savory depth. It's robust enough to stand up to bold flavors. The olive oil helps sauté the onion and garlic, adding a subtle richness. Maple syrup introduces a natural sweetness that complements the sausage perfectly. Dijon mustard adds a tangy, sharp note that's essential for balancing the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar gives a touch of acidity and brightness. Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper lend smokiness and heat, respectively, creating a complex flavor profile. Black pepper and salt are basic seasonings that enhance all other flavors. Finally, onion and garlic build the aromatic base of the dish.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the Kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds and set aside.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

6. Add the Kielbasa slices to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.

7. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the Kielbasa and stir to coat evenly.

8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Kielbasa is glazed and slightly caramelized.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

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