How To Make Easy Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
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.
