Description
Sticky, sweet, and smoky kielbasa bites made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in, these crave-worthy bites feature a caramelized brown sugar glaze and tender sausage.
Ingredients
- 28 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, or substitute maple syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa into 1/2-inch rounds (about 40-45 pieces).
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and black pepper until smooth.
- Place sliced kielbasa in the slow cooker. Pour sauce over sausage and gently toss to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or high for 1.5 hours, stirring once or twice if possible.
- If sauce is too thin near the end, remove lid for last 20 minutes to thicken. If too thick, add 2 tablespoons water and stir.
- Optional: For extra caramelization, transfer cooked bites to a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely.
- Transfer bites to a serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve with toothpicks.
- To make ahead, cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently in slow cooker or microwave.
Notes
Use gluten-free sausage and Worcestershire sauce for a gluten-free version. Turkey or vegan sausage can be substituted. For extra smoky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke to the sauce. Stir gently during cooking for even coating. Serve hot with toothpicks for easy snacking. Leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours (low) or 1.5 hours (high)
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5 pieces per serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Protein: 12
Keywords: kielbasa bites, slow cooker appetizer, brown sugar sausage, party snack, easy potluck recipe, gluten-free appetizer, sweet and smoky sausage