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Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

These cozy, sweet-and-savory bites combine caramelized apples with tender kielbasa for an unforgettable party dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices Choose a good-smoked kielbasa for depth.
  • 2 apples, cored and chopped into small pieces Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Light or dark both work; darker sugar gives a richer flavor.
  • 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice Apple cider adds a rustic tang.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard Adds a gentle zip.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost if you prefer.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped Optional; adds color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly coat the slow cooker with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.
  2. Slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch thick pieces and lay evenly in the slow cooker.
  3. In a bowl, mix the chopped apples, brown sugar, apple cider, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the sugar starts to dissolve.
Cooking
  1. Pour the apple mixture over the kielbasa, covering it as evenly as possible, and close the lid.
  2. Cook on low for 3–4 hours, or on high for 1–2 hours.
  3. Stir gently so the sauce coats each piece and the apples soften but still hold a little texture.
  4. Optionally sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Slice the kielbasa and chop the apples the night before for convenience. If the sauce seems too thin, uncover and cook on high for 15–20 minutes to thicken. Consider adding maple syrup or smoked paprika for flavor variations.