Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless: Only 10 minutes of prep time.
Minimal Ingredients: Just five easy-to-find ingredients.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for large gatherings and events.
Versatile: Great for appetizers, snacks, or even a casual meal.
Slow Cooker Magic: Set it and forget it until it’s time to serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Kielbasa (Polska kielbasa, beef kielbasa, or turkey kielbasa)
Apple sauce
Brown sugar
Yellow mustard
Minced garlic

Directions

Cut kielbasa into bite-sized pieces.
In a mixing bowl, combine kielbasa, brown sugar, yellow mustard, and minced garlic.
Place the mixture into a crock pot.
Pour apple sauce over the kielbasa mixture.
Set the crock pot to low and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
After 3 hours, reduce the heat to warm.
Keep the kielbasa warm in the crock pot for up to another 3-4 hours.
Serve directly from the crock pot with toothpicks.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add spicy mustard or sweet chili sauce.
Tropical Flavor: Include pineapple chunks for a fruity touch.
BBQ Version: Stir in your favorite BBQ sauce.
Extra Savory: Add diced onions for a deeper flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a crock pot on low or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with beef, turkey, or chicken sausage.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix all ingredients and refrigerate overnight, then cook when needed.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s mildly tangy; add spicy mustard or hot sauce if you want more heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just ensure your crock pot is large enough to handle the volume.

What should I serve with sweet kielbasa?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or as part of an appetizer spread.

Can I cook it on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook it on high for about 1.5 hours, but low is recommended for best flavor.

Is it necessary to stir during cooking?

Occasional stirring ensures even coating and prevents sticking.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers or onions would be a tasty addition.

Does the kielbasa need to be pre-cooked?

Most kielbasa is already fully cooked; this recipe simply heats and flavors it.

What’s the best way to serve this at a party?

Serve directly from the crock pot on the warm setting with plenty of toothpicks.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa is a guaranteed hit for any party or casual gathering. Its irresistible sweet and savory flavor, minimal prep, and easy slow cooker method make it the ultimate stress-free appetizer. Keep this recipe on hand—you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Julia
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa is the ultimate easy appetizer, featuring juicy kielbasa bites slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made with apple sauce, brown sugar, mustard, and garlic. Perfect for potlucks, game days, and casual gatherings, this crowd-pleaser requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor!

Ingredients

Kielbasa (Polska kielbasa, beef kielbasa, or turkey kielbasa)

Apple sauce

Brown sugar

Yellow mustard

Minced garlic

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cut kielbasa into bite-sized pieces.
In a mixing bowl, toss kielbasa with brown sugar, yellow mustard, and minced garlic.
Place the mixture into a crock pot.
Pour apple sauce evenly over the kielbasa.
Set crock pot to low and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
After 3 hours, reduce heat to warm to serve.
Serve directly from the crock pot with toothpicks.