1 large kielbasa sausage (about 14 ounces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the kielbasa on a cutting board. Carefully make diagonal cuts every half inch along the sausage, slicing down but not all the way through.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
4. Brush the olive oil mixture generously over the kielbasa, ensuring the spices get into each cut.
5. Lay the kielbasa on a baking sheet, and sprinkle evenly with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the kielbasa is sizzling and the cheese has browned nicely.
7. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips
To personalize this dish further, consider adding other flavors like a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or brushing with a BBQ or Sriracha sauce for a tangy kick. You can also swap Parmesan for other cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you are not strictly low-carb, adding a small amount of breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds to the top before baking will add a delightful crunch.