Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

Introduction

Looking for the ultimate sweet and savory appetizer that practically makes itself? These Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this crowd-pleasing recipe combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa with the tangy sweetness of apple jelly and barbecue sauce. It’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or anytime you need a no-fuss, flavor-packed bite-sized snack.

Ingredients List

2 lbs kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup apple jelly
3/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)

Substitutions:

Use turkey kielbasa for a lighter version.
Swap apple jelly with apricot preserves or peach jam.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours on HIGH or 4–5 hours on LOW
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes–5 hours 10 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the kielbasa

Slice kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and place them in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together apple jelly, barbecue sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and cook

Pour sauce mixture over kielbasa and stir to coat. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or LOW for 4–5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Serve

Serve warm directly from the slow cooker with toothpicks or over rice for a heartier dish.

Tip: Keep the slow cooker on warm during parties to maintain the perfect serving temperature.

Nutritional Information (Per 6–8 pieces)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Fat	15g
Carbs	12g
Protein	9g
Sugar	9g
Sodium	640mg

Serving Suggestions

Pair with mini rolls for sliders.
Serve with skewers as finger food at parties.
Plate over mashed potatoes for a comfort-food spin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using too much sauce: Keep the ratio balanced or it can become too runny.
Skipping the stir: Stirring helps evenly coat and prevents scorching.
Overcooking: Kielbasa is pre-cooked, so don’t leave it too long.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge and reheat in slow cooker.
Reheat: Use microwave or stovetop over low heat.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are a sweet-and-savory hit that require minimal effort and deliver maximum flavor. Perfect for entertaining or an easy weeknight snack.