Name: Polish Kielbasa Sandwich with Spicy BBQ Sauce and Sauerkraut Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp maple syrup; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp tomato purée; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp mustard; 1/4 tsp rice wine vinegar; 1 white crispy roll; 1 tbsp sauerkraut; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 Polish Kielbasa sausages, cut butterfly style (sliced down the middle but not all the way through); 2 slices cheese (Edam or Cheddar); 1 tbsp oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

The Polish Kielbasa Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines smoky sausages with tangy sauerkraut and a rich homemade BBQ sauce. Perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner, this sandwich brings bold flavors together in every bite.

A sandwich is cut in half and held by two woman's hands, showing its inside layers clearly. Each half has a thick, soft-looking light brown bread crust with a fluffy white bread interior. Inside, the bottom layer is a grilled sausage with a browned shell, topped with a layer of caramelized shredded onions and visible melted cheese that looks golden and gooey. Above this, there is a red sauce layer mixed with the cheese, adding a glossy texture. On one side, thin slices of red onion add a purple touch, contrasting with the rest of the warm colors. The sandwich halves are held above a white plate, all set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 white crispy roll
1 tbsp sauerkraut
1/2 red onion, sliced
2 Polish Kielbasa sausages, cut into a butterfly shape (sliced down the middle but not all the way)
2 slices of cheese (Edam or Cheddar)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp maple syrup
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp tomato purée
1 tsp garlic
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp mustard
1/4 tsp rice wine vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Make the BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, tomato purée, garlic, paprika, pepper, mustard, and rice wine vinegar in a bowl. Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Take the two Kielbasa sausages and slice them down the middle, stopping before cutting all the way through to create a butterfly shape.
Step 3: Heat a frying pan over medium heat and drizzle with a little oil. Place the sausages in the pan and fry for about 3 minutes on each side, until browned and heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Slice the crispy roll in half, then spread a tablespoon of the BBQ sauce onto the bottom half.
Step 5: Place the sausage on the sauced bread, then top with the two slices of cheese. Put the sandwich under the grill for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Remove the sandwich from the grill and top with sauerkraut, sliced red onions, and a little more BBQ sauce. Place the other half of the roll on top, then serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add pickles or crispy fried onions along with the sauerkraut.
Try swapping Edam or Cheddar for smoked Gouda to enhance the smoky flavor.
If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Use a crusty baguette instead of a roll for a different texture.

Storage

Store any leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven to preserve the texture of the sausage and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Three hot dogs are placed on a white plate with light grill marks on the buns. Each hot dog has a reddish-brown sausage on a soft, golden bun. Below the sausage is a layer of white sauerkraut, adding texture and some thin strands extending slightly outside the bun. On top of each sausage is a thick line of grainy yellow mustard. The white marbled surface beneath the plate and a folded light blue cloth add a clean, bright background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular sausages instead of Polish Kielbasa?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite smoked or flavorful sausage, but traditional Kielbasa provides the best authentic taste for this sandwich.

How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

You can replace the Kielbasa with grilled plant-based sausages or marinated portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.