Super Easy Crock Pot Kielbasa: The Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

There’s a specific scent that instantly transports me back to family gatherings at my Aunt Millie’s house: the sweet, tangy aroma of kielbasa simmering in her old crock pot. It wasn’t just the taste, though that was undeniably delicious. It was the feeling of warmth, laughter, and the comforting certainty that there would be enough for everyone. Aunt Millie always had a stash of toothpicks ready, and the kielbasa never lasted long! This recipe is a homage to her effortless hospitality.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Dietary Type: Varies (see variations)

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Hillshire Farms Kielbasa (original or light)
• 8 ounces Gulden’s Spicy Mustard
• 10 ounces Apricot Preserves (such as Polaner All Fruit)

Equipment Needed

• Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Spoon for Stirring

Instructions

1. Begin by slicing the kielbasa into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds. Aim for uniform slices for even cooking.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa to your crock pot.
3. Pour in the 8 ounces of Gulden’s Spicy Mustard over the kielbasa. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a regular yellow mustard, but the spicy mustard really elevates the dish.
4. Spoon the 10 ounces of apricot preserves on top of the mustard and kielbasa. The apricot preserves add a wonderful sweetness that balances the spiciness of the mustard. Polaner All Fruit is a great option because it has a high fruit content and minimal added sugar.
5. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that the kielbasa is evenly coated with the mustard and preserves. This will help to create a cohesive and flavorful sauce.
6. Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. You can extend the cooking time up to 8 hours if needed, but be mindful that the sauce may become slightly thicker. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Once the kielbasa is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, it is ready to serve. The kielbasa should be heated all the way through.
8. Set out a bowl of toothpicks for easy serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crock pot. The vinegar will add a touch of acidity, while the red pepper flakes will provide a subtle kick.
• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the kielbasa from sticking to the bottom of the crock pot, you can spray the inside with non-stick cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water). Add the slurry to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring frequently.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply combine all of the ingredients in the crock pot, cover, and refrigerate. When you are ready to cook, remove the crock pot from the refrigerator and cook on low heat as directed.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spice, use a mild mustard and/or decrease the quantity. You can also add a tablespoon of brown sugar to counteract the heat.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the crock pot kielbasa directly from the crock pot to keep it warm, or transfer it to a serving dish. Provide toothpicks for easy serving as an appetizer. This dish is also fantastic served as a main course with baked potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the kielbasa until heated through or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. You can also reheat it in the crock pot on low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out. This dish is best reheated gently to prevent the kielbasa from becoming dry. Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce texture might change.

Nutritional Information

(Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	791 kcal	40%
Total Fat	52.7g	68%
Saturated Fat	8.3g	42%
Cholesterol	42.8mg	14%
Sodium	9,170mg	382%
Carbohydrates	68.2g	23%
Fiber	26.4g	106%
Sugar	18.8g	75%
Protein	43.9g	88%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that the kielbasa and mustard you use are certified gluten-free. Many brands of kielbasa are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to double-check the label.
• Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free apricot preserves or reduce the amount of preserves and add a touch of stevia or erythritol for sweetness.
• Different Preserves: Experiment with other fruit preserves, such as peach, plum, or even fig preserves. Each type of preserve will impart a unique flavor to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the crock pot for an extra layer of heat.
• Vegetarian Option: While not traditionally kielbasa, you can substitute vegan sausages for a plant-based version. Be aware that cooking times may vary.
• Beer Infusion: Add half a cup of your favorite beer (amber ales work well) for a deeper, more complex flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of mustard?
A: Absolutely! While Gulden’s Spicy Mustard adds a great kick, you can use any mustard you like, such as Dijon, honey mustard, or even a grainy mustard.

Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes, but it’s not recommended. Cooking on high can cause the sauce to burn or become too thick. If you’re short on time, cook on high for 2-3 hours, but keep a close eye on it.

Q: How do I know when the kielbasa is done?
A: The kielbasa is fully cooked when it’s heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Since kielbasa is pre-cooked, you are essentially just warming it up and infusing it with flavor.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Sure! Onions, bell peppers, and even sauerkraut would be great additions to this crock pot kielbasa.

Q: Is this dish suitable for kids?
A: It depends on the child’s spice tolerance. If you’re making it for kids, you might want to use a milder mustard or omit the red pepper flakes.

Final Thoughts

This Super Easy Crock Pot Kielbasa recipe is more than just a quick appetizer; it’s a reminder that the best food is often the simplest, shared with the people we love. So, gather your ingredients, plug in your crock pot, and prepare to be transported to a place of comfort and deliciousness. Don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly – it always does! And feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own. Enjoy!