Michael Kiolbassa, CEO of Kiolbassa Smoked Meats, takes us on a journey through the history of the iconic sausage brand, which has been a staple in San Antonio for 75 years. From its humble beginnings in 1949 to its expansion across the globe in 2024, the Kiolbassa family’s commitment to quality and tradition has made their sausages a household name.
The story of Kiolbassa Smoked Meats began when Rufus and Juanita Kiolbassa introduced hand-crafted Polish sausages to the southwest side of San Antonio in 1949. Following Rufus’ passing in 1960, his son Robert Kiolbassa took over the business and transformed it into a beloved local institution.
In 1987, Robert’s son, Michael Kiolbassa, joined the family business as a sales representative and played a pivotal role in expanding the brand’s reach. Through strategic distribution deals, Kiolbassa sausages became available in select H-E-B stores across San Antonio. Over the years, the company continued to grow, and by 2014, Kiolbassa products were being enjoyed by consumers across the southern United States.
In 2021, the passing of Robert ‘Bobby’ Kiolbassa marked a bittersweet moment for the family and the company. With Michael at the helm, Kiolbassa Smoked Meats continued to thrive, and today, their products are available not only across the United States but also around the world.
To celebrate this milestone, Michael Kiolbassa generously shares two delectable sausage recipes with Texas Eats: Kiolbassa Sausage Rolls and Kiolbassa Sausage Puffs. These mouthwatering recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of Kiolbassa sausages, offering a delicious way to enjoy the company’s time-honored tradition.
As Kiolbassa Smoked Meats looks ahead to the future, their commitment to quality and passion for crafting exceptional sausages remain unwavering. With 75 years of heritage behind them, the Kiolbassa family’s legacy continues to inspire both local communities and sausage lovers worldwide.
