Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites Recipe

These Apple Kielbasa Bites cook up beautifully in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken perfectly. Sweet apples, smoky sausage, and a tangy sauce come together to make these bites a delicious appetizer for game day, parties, or a casual get-together.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for stirring

Ingredients Overview

• Kielbasa: Smoky sausage that holds its shape well during cooking.
• Apples: Adds sweetness and a subtle tartness to the dish.
• Barbecue Sauce: Provides a tangy, savory base that balances with the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the caramelized flavors in the sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds brightness and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir in the cinnamon for added warmth.
3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
   Place the kielbasa and diced apples into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top, and stir to coat everything evenly.
4. Cook on Low:
   Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve:
   Once heated through and saucy, transfer to a serving dish or keep warm in the slow cooker for serving. Provide toothpicks for easy snacking.

Recipe Tips

• Use Tart Apples: For a slightly tangier flavor, choose tart apples like Granny Smiths to balance the sweetness.
• Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, uncover the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the ingredients the night before and start the slow cooker on the day you plan to serve.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Crackers or Bread: Serve alongside for a heartier snack.
• Cheese Platter: Complements the flavors of the kielbasa bites.
• Cocktail Picks or Toothpicks: Perfect for serving as an appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, smoked sausage or even chicken sausage works well in this recipe.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker has enough space for even cooking.

How should I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.
• Add a Side of Mustard: A small bowl of mustard is great for dipping if you prefer extra tang.

Apple Kielbasa Bites cook up

These Apple Kielbasa Bites cook up beautifully in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken perfectly. Sweet apples, smoky sausage, and a tangy sauce come together to make these bites a delicious appetizer for game day, parties, or a casual get-together.

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Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cup
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for stirring

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar optional, for extra tang
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon optional, for warmth

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ingredients:
• Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks.
• Make the Sauce:
• In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir in the cinnamon for added warmth.
• Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
• Place the kielbasa and diced apples into the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the top, and stir to coat everything evenly.
• Cook on Low:
• Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.