At the barbecue, this quickly became the most popular dish. My sister made it, and everyone kept asking about the secret ingredient.
Slow-Cooked Apple Kielbasa Bites (Rewritten Version)
There’s something comforting about a dish that fills your home with warm aromas and draws everyone straight to the kitchen. That’s precisely what these slow-cooked apple kielbasa bites do. Ideal for autumn get-togethers, potlucks, or relaxed weeknights, this recipe blends juicy sausage with sweet apples for a cozy, satisfying meal. Effortless to prepare and full of flavor, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite.
Serving Ideas
Take these apple kielbasa bites up a notch by pairing them with the right sides. Tangy potato salad or a loaf of crusty warm bread work beautifully to mop up the sticky-sweet glaze. Want something lighter on the table? Serve them alongside steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad. For party platters, simply spear each piece with a toothpick for an easy, crowd-ready appetizer.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kielbasa sausage | 1 lb, sliced into ½-inch rounds |
| Apples | 2 large, peeled, cored, and chopped |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 teaspoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 30 ml |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ teaspoon |
| Onion | ½ cup, minced |
Instructions
- Layer the Kielbasa: Put the sliced sausage into the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the apples, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine: Pour the apple mixture evenly over the sausage.
- Add the Onion: Scatter the minced onion on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the sausage is coated in a thick glaze.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and enjoy while warm.
Tips & Custom Options
- Want some spice? Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Prefer a gentler flavor? Cut back on the vinegar and mustard for a milder result.
- Craving extra sweetness? Mix in dried cranberries or raisins during the final hour of cooking for added texture and richness.
