Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the savory flavor of kielbasa with the sweetness of apples and a tangy sauce. Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and keeps warm in the slow cooker, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are an easy, tasty appetizer that will be a hit at any event. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with guests. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your party menu or just a fun, flavorful snack, these kielbasa bites are sure to satisfy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 pounds of kielbasa or smoked sausage (sliced into bite-sized pieces)
2 large apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
1 cup of barbecue sauce
1/2 cup of apple jelly
1/4 cup of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Kielbasa and Apples
Begin by slicing the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch thick. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks. The combination of smoky sausage and sweet apples is what makes this dish so delicious.
Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple jelly, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well blended. The sauce will be both sweet and tangy, with a hint of spice.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced kielbasa and diced apples in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top, ensuring that the sausage and apples are evenly coated. Stir everything together to distribute the sauce throughout.
Cook the Kielbasa Bites
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to make sure the sauce evenly coats the kielbasa and apples as they cook.
The kielbasa will absorb the flavors of the sauce, and the apples will become tender, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the kielbasa bites are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, they are ready to serve. You can keep them warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting if you’re serving them at a party.
Serve the kielbasa bites with toothpicks for easy snacking, and watch them disappear quickly!
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites
Kielbasa Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use other types of smoked sausage, such as andouille or chorizo, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
Apple Variety: Choose a firm apple variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure the apples hold their shape during cooking.
Add a Kick: For a spicy version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
ENJOY IT
