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Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are a simple, flavorful appetizer combining smoky kielbasa sausage with sweet, crisp apples. This easy slow cooker recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, delivering tender, juicy bites perfect for parties, game day, or casual snacking. The balance of savory and sweet flavors, enhanced by a tangy sauce, makes these bites a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large firm apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp), chopped into small chunks with peel on

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the smoked kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and chop the apples into small chunks, keeping the peel on to add texture and color.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and fragrant. This sauce will create a perfect glaze that locks in flavor.
  3. Combine in the Slow Cooker: Add the kielbasa and apples to your slow cooker, then pour the sauce over the top. Gently toss everything together so the sausage and apples are evenly coated with the delicious mixture.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the kielbasa to become irresistibly tender.
  5. Serve Warm: Once cooked through, give everything a final stir and transfer the Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites to a serving platter. They’re best enjoyed warm, bursting with sweet and savory goodness.

Notes

  • Choose firm apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp to prevent them from turning mushy during cooking.
  • Don’t skip the apple cider vinegar as it balances the sweetness perfectly.
  • Cut the kielbasa and apples uniformly for consistent cooking and texture.
  • Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.
  • Let it rest on warm for 15 minutes after cooking to intensify flavors before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker appetizer, kielbasa bites, apple sausage bites, party snacks, game day appetizers, easy slow cooker recipes, gluten free appetizers