Description
Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites Recipe
Ingredients
2 lbs kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
1 1/2 cups apple jelly
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple jelly, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard (if using), and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Add the sliced kielbasa to the slow cooker.
Pour the prepared sauce over the kielbasa, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to distribute the sauce.
Serve:
Transfer the kielbasa bites to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Tips:
You can substitute the apple jelly with apricot preserves for a slightly different flavor profile.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
These bites pair well with crusty bread or crackers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Servings: 8-10 as an appetizer
Enjoy these sweet, tangy, and smoky Apple Kielbasa Bites at your next gathering!
#SlowCookerRecipes #EasyAppetizers #KielbasaLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Kielbasa: Using a sharp knife, slice 2 lbs of kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the sauce adhere better.
2. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups apple jelly, 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Whisk vigorously until the jelly is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine in Cooker: Place the sliced kielbasa into the slow cooker insert. Pour the sauce evenly over the top. Gently stir to ensure every piece is coated.
4. Cook: Secure the lid. Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. Stir the contents once or twice during cooking to prevent any edges from drying out.
5. Final Touch & Serve: Once cooked, the sauce will be glossy and slightly thickened. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and provide toothpicks.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bites directly from the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for a party. They are perfect as a game-day appetizer or holiday starter. For a fuller spread, pair them with sharp cheddar cheese cubes, crisp apple slices, and a variety of crackers or crostini. To balance the sweetness, offer a side of spicy whole-grain mustard for dipping.
How-to Summary
Slice kielbasa. Whisk apple jelly, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and cinnamon into a sauce. Combine sausage and sauce in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally. Garnish with parsley and serve warm with toothpicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce and slice the kielbasa a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Combine and cook as directed when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes. Smoked sausage or even little smokies work perfectly. The cooking time may be slightly less for smaller links.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? For a thicker glaze, remove the kielbasa bites after cooking. Pour the sauce into a saucepan and simmer on the stovetop for 5-10 minutes until reduced to your desired consistency.
Is the Dijon mustard necessary? It is optional but recommended. The mustard adds a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness and creates a more complex, balanced flavor profile.
Can I cook this faster in the oven? Yes. Combine everything in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is bubbly and the kielbasa is caramelized.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Stirring: Failing to stir once or twice can cause the sauce to stick or burn on the edges of the slow cooker.
- Overcooking: Cooking beyond 5 hours on low can cause the kielbasa to become overly soft and the sauce to over-reduce.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Using jelly straight from the fridge makes it difficult to whisk smoothly. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes first.
- Skipping the Garnish: The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the rich, sweet dish.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it party food. With just minutes of prep, you create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that masterfully combines sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to adapt, and guaranteed to be the first empty dish on your snack table. Give this simple recipe a try for your next gathering and enjoy the effortless compliments.