Sweet and Smoky Candied Kielbasa Recipe for Irresistible Snacking

Sticky, sweet, and irresistibly savory, this candied kielbasa recipe brings a delightful twist to your appetizer spread.

Polish sausage glazed with a mouthwatering brown sugar coating creates an instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

The combination of smoky kielbasa and caramelized sugar delivers an unexpectedly addictive flavor profile.

Each bite promises a perfect balance between salty and sweet sensations.

Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a go-to for last-minute entertaining.

Serve these delectable bites and watch them disappear faster than you can slice the sausage.

Prepare to become the ultimate party hero with this incredibly easy and delicious recipe.

Kielbasa Tips for Perfect Sweetness and Spice

• Select a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Modify the amount of brown sugar to control the sweetness, using less for a more savory profile or more for a sweeter taste.
• Stir the kielbasa occasionally during cooking to ensure even coating and prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce to give the sauce more complexity and tang.
• Prepare the dish in advance and keep warm in the slow cooker for parties, or refrigerate and reheat gently before serving for even more developed flavors.

Kielbasa Variations for Party Snacks

• Spicy Kielbasa Kick: Replace ketchup with sriracha and add red pepper flakes for a fiery version that brings heat to the classic recipe.
• Honey Mustard Variation: Swap brown sugar with honey and mix in whole grain mustard for a tangy, sweet alternative that complements the sausage.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute kielbasa with plant-based sausage or firm tofu chunks, maintaining the same sauce and cooking method for a meat-free dish.

How to Serve Candied Kielbasa for Events

• Game Day Crowd Pleaser: Serve the candied kielbasa as an irresistible appetizer during sports events or movie nights, letting guests grab toothpicks and enjoy bite-sized pieces.
• Party Buffet Star: Create a chafing dish setup at your next potluck, keeping the kielbasa warm and allowing guests to serve themselves throughout the gathering.
• Hearty Side Dish Delight: Pair the sweet and savory kielbasa with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to transform it into a satisfying main course for casual family dinners.
• Brunch Bonus Bite: Incorporate the candied kielbasa into weekend brunch spreads, complementing scrambled eggs and offering a delicious protein option that adds excitement to the meal.

Storing Candied Kielbasa for Next Time

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer cooled kielbasa to freezer-safe containers or bags. Maintain quality for 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Place portions in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Pour kielbasa and sauce into skillet. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Add splash of water if sauce looks dry.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of kielbasa for this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef, pork, or turkey kielbasa. Just ensure the sausage is sliced evenly for consistent cooking.

• How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too watery?

Use a minimal amount of liquid ingredients and avoid adding extra water. The brown sugar and ketchup will naturally create a thick, sticky sauce.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The sweet and tangy sauce appeals to both children and adults. The mild flavors make it a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings.

• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice the kielbasa and mix the sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine in the slow cooker when ready to cook.

Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa Gathering Favorite Reasons

• Minimal ingredients and basic kitchen tools make this recipe a breeze for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
• The perfect blend of sweet brown sugar and tangy Worcestershire sauce creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Slow cooker magic means you can prepare this dish with minimal effort, letting you spend more time with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
• An ideal appetizer or main dish for game days, potlucks, family gatherings, and casual celebrations that demands minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor.

Kielbasa Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Results

• Kielbasa: A traditional Polish sausage that provides a hearty and flavorful base for this sweet and savory dish.

• Brown Sugar, Ketchup: These ingredients create a rich, sweet glaze that caramelizes and coats the kielbasa.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and a tangy complexity to the overall sauce flavor.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper: These spices enhance the sauce's flavor profile and provide a subtle aromatic background to the kielbasa.

Tools for Slow Cooking Candied Kielbasa

• Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking the kielbasa with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Small Bowl: Perfect for whisking together the sweet and tangy sauce ingredients.
• Whisk: Crucial for blending sauce components smoothly and eliminating lumps.
• Cutting Board: Helpful for slicing kielbasa if needed before cooking.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for precise kielbasa cutting, if required.

How to Make Candied Kielbasa in Your Slow Cooker

Step 1: Slice And Layer Kielbasa

Grab your kielbasa and slice it into bite-sized pieces.

Spread these pieces evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker, creating a delicious base for the upcoming flavor explosion.

Step 2: Whisk Magical Sauce Ingredients

• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes a smooth, glossy sauce that promises incredible taste.

Step 3: Coat Kielbasa With Sauce

Pour the whisked sauce directly over the kielbasa pieces.

Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss and ensure every single piece gets a luxurious coating of the sweet and tangy sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook To Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and let the magic happen.

• Low setting: Cook for 4-6 hours
• High setting: Cook for 2-3 hours

The goal is tender kielbasa infused with rich, caramelized flavors.

Step 5: Final Stir And Serve

Give the kielbasa a gentle final stir to redistribute the sauce.

Serve directly from the slow cooker while it’s warm, letting the inviting aroma draw everyone to the table.

Candied Kielbasa Recipe

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4.9 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Kielbasa candied with brown sugar and mustard delights palate-pleasing Polish sausage enthusiasts. Spicy-sweet flavors complement hearty meals and spark conversations around dinner tables.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (0.9 kg) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup brown sugar

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Arrange the kielbasa slices in a uniform, single layer across the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring maximum sauce coverage.
2. Create a rich glaze by thoroughly whisking brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until the ingredients form a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
3. Drizzle the prepared sauce evenly over the kielbasa, gently folding the meat to guarantee complete and consistent coating.
4. Secure the slow cooker lid and set the temperature to low, allowing the kielbasa to simmer and absorb flavors for 4-6 hours, or alternatively use high heat for 2-3 hours until the meat becomes exceptionally tender.
5. Before presenting, delicately stir the kielbasa to redistribute the caramelized sauce, ensuring each piece glistens with a sweet and tangy glaze.
6. Transfer the candied kielbasa directly from the slow cooker to serving dishes, maintaining its warmth and inviting aroma for immediate enjoyment.

Notes

• Slice kielbasa evenly to ensure consistent cooking and sauce coverage for a balanced flavor profile.
• Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a unique twist on the traditional brown sugar sauce.
• For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the dish a zesty kick.
• Prep the sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking, allowing flavors to meld even more intensely.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg