Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

If you’re hunting for an appetizer that’s ridiculously easy, crowd-pleasing, and doesn’t require hovering over the stove — this is it. These Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites are the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and just a little spicy. All it takes is five simple ingredients and a slow cooker.

The result? Bite-sized pieces of juicy kielbasa simmered in a tangy apple-garlic glaze that gets better with every hour they soak. They’re ideal for game day, holiday potlucks, or lazy weekend snacking. And the best part? They keep beautifully in the slow cooker on warm, so everyone can grab a bite when they’re ready.

Why You’ll Love These

Only 5 ingredients – no fancy stuff, just pantry basics
Perfect for parties – easy to make and stays warm for hours
Sweet and savory – apples + garlic + spice = flavor bomb
Set it and forget it – slow cooker does all the work

FAQs Before We Get Cooking

Can I use turkey kielbasa or another sausage?

Absolutely. This recipe works great with any fully cooked smoked sausage — turkey, beef, chicken, or traditional pork. Just slice into bite-size rounds and toss them in.

Is the applesauce sweet or unsweetened?

Unsweetened applesauce is key. Sweetened applesauce will make the final dish overly sugary. The brown sugar adds enough sweetness on its own.

How spicy is this?

The ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes gives it just a gentle heat — enough to balance the sweet and savory flavors without burning your mouth. You can adjust it up or down depending on your preference.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Definitely. Spoon the kielbasa bites over mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy white rice. Drizzle the extra sauce over the top — it’s addictive.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also return it to the slow cooker on low if you have time.
Freeze: Cooled leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat as usual.

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

This recipe couldn’t be simpler. You’ll toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker, stir, and let the flavors simmer together while you do literally anything else.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Slice the kielbasa
Cut the sausage into 1-inch pieces. No need to brown them — they’ll soak up all the flavor as they cook.

Step 2: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Add the kielbasa, applesauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything to combine.

Step 3: Cook
Set the slow cooker to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir once or twice if you’re around, but it’s not essential.

Step 4: Serve
Keep it on the warm setting and serve straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks, or spoon it over a plate of carbs for a simple, hearty meal.

What to Serve With It

These bites shine as a party app, but they also make an easy dinner. Here are a few pairing ideas:

Over mashed potatoes with a green veggie
Tucked into slider buns for mini sandwiches
On a charcuterie-style board with cheese cubes and pickles
With pretzel sticks instead of toothpicks — snack + dipper in one!

Slow Cooker Apple Kielbasa Bites

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Difficulty: Super easy
Best for: Appetizers, party food, game day snacks, quick dinners

Ingredients

2 lbs fully cooked polska kielbasa, sliced into 1-inch pieces
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Combine ingredients: Add sliced kielbasa, brown sugar, applesauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir well to coat.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
Serve: Set to WARM and serve straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks. Or spoon over rice or mashed potatoes for a full meal.