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Easy Crockpot Brown Sugar Kielbasa Bites

easy crockpot brown sugar kielbasa bites - featured image

A simple, slow-cooker appetizer featuring smoked kielbasa coated in a sticky, sweet-and-savory glaze made with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and spices. Perfect for game day or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds kielbasa (Polish smoked sausage)
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Pat the kielbasa dry with a paper towel and slice into half-inch rounds, then cut into bite-sized pieces (about 30-40 pieces). Place in the slow cooker insert.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder until mostly dissolved.
  3. Pour the glaze over the sausage pieces and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours. Do not lift the lid during the first two hours.
  5. Stir the mixture after 4 hours. If the sauce is too thin, cook on HIGH for 30 minutes. If too thick, add a splash of water or vinegar.
  6. For a stickier finish, remove the lid and cook on HIGH for the last 10-15 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  7. Serve warm with toothpicks, drizzling with reserved sauce if desired.

Notes

Pat the sausage dry before slicing to help the glaze stick. Pack the brown sugar tightly into the measuring cup. Stir frequently near the end of cooking to prevent the sugar from burning. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or sriracha. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot kielbasa, brown sugar sausage, slow cooker appetizer, game day food, sweet and savory, easy party snacks, kielbasa bites