Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with “Autumn Delight: Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites,” a delightful dish that combines the smoky sweetness of kielbasa with the tart and juicy goodness of apples. Cooked slowly in a savory-sweet sauce, these bites are perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or as a tasty snack during a family game night. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this dish allows you to enjoy the rich flavors with little effort.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites:

• Effortless Cooking: Let the slow cooker do the work for you, freeing you up to focus on other tasks.
• Flavor Fusion: The smoky kielbasa perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples and sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, part of a meal, or over rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a dish that’s sure to delight guests.

Ingredients Notes For Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites:

• Kielbasa: Use a good quality kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-size pieces.
• Apples: Choose a firmer apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice texture that holds up during cooking.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a rich glaze.
• Apple Juice: Provides the cooking liquid and enhances the apple flavor in the dish.
• Mustard: A bit of Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard for a tangy contrast.
• Onion: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or allspice complements the apples and kielbasa beautifully.

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Slice the kielbasa into 1/2 inch pieces.
   • Core and chop the apples into chunks, not too small to prevent them from becoming mushy.
   • Finely chop the onion.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
   • Place the sliced kielbasa, chopped apples, and onions into the slow cooker.
   • In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple juice, and mustard until well combined. Pour this mixture over the kielbasa and apples.
3. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for about 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the apples are tender and the kielbasa is heated through and has absorbed the flavors.
4. Season and Serve:
   • Near the end of cooking, stir in a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for added warmth.
   • Serve the kielbasa bites warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.

Variations & Substitutions:

• Alcohol Twist: Replace some of the apple juice with apple cider or a splash of apple brandy for an adult version.
• Different Protein: Try this recipe with chunks of chicken or pork if kielbasa isn’t your preference.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a bit of heat.

How To Make Easy Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds kielbasa sausage cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 3 apples cored and chopped (choose a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider not vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker:

• Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Combine Ingredients:

• Place the sliced kielbasa and chopped apples in the slow cooker.
• In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider, garlic powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well combined.
• Pour this mixture over the kielbasa and apples in the slow cooker, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Cook:

• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the apples are soft and the kielbasa is heated through and has absorbed some of the sauce flavors.

Serve:

• Once done, stir the contents to ensure everything is well coated with the sauce.
• Serve the apple kielbasa bites warm, straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks for easy eating.

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