This Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Apples is the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and sweet. Tender slices of kielbasa are slow-cooked with apples, onions, brown sugar, and warm spices, creating a dish that’s hearty yet comforting. The apple-cinnamon glaze coats every bite, making it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy cooks who need a simple dump-and-go slow cooker meal.
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Entertainers looking for a crowd-friendly appetizer or main dish.
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Families who love comforting meals with a touch of sweetness.
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Beginners since the slow cooker handles most of the work.
Why it’s Great
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Easy prep: Just slice, mix, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
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Versatile dish: Works as both an appetizer (served with toothpicks) or a main dish with rice, potatoes, or bread.
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Sweet & savory flavor: Apples, brown sugar, and spices balance the smoky richness of kielbasa.
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Perfect for gatherings: A warm, shareable dish that always disappears fast.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Slow cooker (3–4 quart or larger)
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Sharp knife & cutting board
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Small mixing bowl
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
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1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
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2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
Instructions
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Prepare ingredients: Slice kielbasa, peel and chop apples, and finely chop the onion.
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Combine in slow cooker: Add kielbasa, apples, and onion to the slow cooker.
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Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Add sauce: Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir to coat.
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Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours or High for 1.5–2 hours, until apples are tender and kielbasa is heated through.
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Serve: Stir gently and enjoy hot. Serve with toothpicks as an appetizer or alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread as a main dish.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
FAQ
Q: Can I use turkey kielbasa instead of pork?
A: Yes! Turkey or chicken kielbasa works just as well for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make this without mustard?
A: Absolutely. Just leave it out or substitute with honey mustard for a milder flavor.
Q: What apples work best for this recipe?
A: Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up best in cooking.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes—just use a larger slow cooker and double all ingredients.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Apples is a simple yet flavorful dish that blends smoky sausage with sweet apples and warm spices. Perfect as a party appetizer or a hearty family dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s comfort food at its best.
