Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory. Tender slices of kielbasa simmer slowly in a warm apple-based glaze that turns sticky, rich, and irresistibly flavorful. They’re ideal for parties, potlucks, game nights, or anytime you want a simple appetizer that everyone will devour.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds kielbasa sausage, sliced into bite-size rounds
- 1 cup apple jelly
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
Start by slicing the kielbasa into small, even rounds so they cook evenly and absorb more flavor. Place all the pieces into the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, combine the apple jelly, barbecue sauce, applesauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and well blended.
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the kielbasa in the slow cooker, making sure every piece is coated. Stir gently to help distribute the sauce throughout the sausage slices.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 1½ to 2 hours. Stir once halfway through cooking to make sure the glaze melts and mixes evenly with the sausage.
Once the kielbasa is tender and the sauce has thickened into a rich, glossy glaze, switch your slow cooker to the warm setting. Serve the bites directly from the Crockpot using toothpicks for easy snacking.
These Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are sweet, smoky, and unbelievably easy—the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer. Enjoy!
