Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
Why Make This Recipe?
Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-make dish combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s irresistibly good. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or family dinners, this slow cooker recipe is low-effort but delivers big on flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a guaranteed hit every time!
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 8-10 (as an appetizer)
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 hours (on low)
- Total Time: ~4 hours 10 minutes
How to Make Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
Ingredients
- 2 lbs kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces ????
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite!) ????
- ¾ cup brown sugar ????
- ½ cup pineapple juice ????
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard ????
- 1 tsp garlic powder ????
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for added depth) ????️
Directions
- Prepare the Kielbasa
- Slice the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) until well combined.
- Assemble in the Crock Pot
- Place the sliced kielbasa in the crock pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the kielbasa, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Cook
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve
- Once the kielbasa is hot and the sauce is thickened, transfer it to a serving dish. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
How to Serve Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
Serve this dish as a party appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish alongside steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. It’s also great with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sweet sauce.
How to Store Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the kielbasa and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
- Use Quality Kielbasa: A high-quality kielbasa sausage makes a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Add more or less brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let it reduce.
Variations
- Spicy Sweet Kielbasa: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cranberry Twist: Replace pineapple juice with cranberry juice for a tangy variation.
- Veggie Additions: Toss in chunks of bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Stir Occasionally: Stir every hour to ensure the sauce coats the kielbasa evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is so popular that you might want to double it for larger gatherings. Just make sure your crock pot can accommodate the extra quantity.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble everything in the crock pot the night before and refrigerate. Start cooking in the morning for a stress-free party dish.
How Many Servings?
This recipe serves 8-10 as an appetizer or 4-6 as a main dish.
Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~10g
- Fats: ~16g
- Saturated Fats: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~24g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~900mg
Health Benefits of Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa
- Protein-Packed: Kielbasa provides a good source of protein for energy and muscle repair.
- Iron Boost: Sausages are a source of iron, supporting red blood cell production.
- Balanced Energy: The combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates provides sustained energy.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes, with adjustments:
- Lower Sodium Option: Use low-sodium kielbasa and barbecue sauce to reduce salt intake.
- Gentler Flavor: Skip the smoked paprika and garlic powder if milder flavors are preferred.
- Serve with Veggies: Pair it with roasted or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use smoked sausage, andouille sausage, or even chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I cook this on high?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but stirring frequently is recommended to prevent the sauce from sticking.
3. Can I make this without a crock pot?
Absolutely! Cook the kielbasa and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat, simmering for 15-20 minutes until thickened and heated through.
Crock Pot Sweet Kielbasa is an easy, delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a simple dinner idea, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors!
