Description
Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites combine the rich, smoky flavor of kielbasa with the natural sweetness of apples and brown sugar. Enhanced by the tang of Dijon mustard and the subtle fruitiness of apple cider, this dish is perfect for gatherings, whether served as a bite-sized appetizer or a hearty main dish. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a caramelized sauce that coats the juicy sausage and tender apples. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices
- 2 apples, cored and chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider (or apple juice)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation of Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or use a liner for easy cleanup. A liner helps prevent the sauce from sticking to the sides, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze. - Slicing the Kielbasa
Slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking. Arrange the slices evenly in the slow cooker. For a variation, you can try using chorizo or bratwurst. - Mixing the Apple Mixture
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the apple mixture over the kielbasa slices, ensuring they are well-coated. - Slow Cooking Process
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. Cooking on low allows for the flavors to develop fully, but high heat is an option if you’re short on time. - Final Touches
Once the cooking time is up, gently stir the kielbasa to re-coat it with the sauce. For a garnish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to make it a main dish.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots for a heartier meal.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, but you can experiment with other varieties.
- Healthier Option: If you’re watching your calorie intake, try using turkey kielbasa and reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a naturally sweet alternative like honey or maple syrup.
- Make Ahead Tip: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated later. It’s perfect for meal prep or make-ahead party dishes.