Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites

Featured in Appetizing Starters.

Kielbasa pieces are combined with chili sauce, barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire, and seasonings, then slow cooked to perfection for juicy, bite-sized morsels. These flavorful bites shine at parties or as an easy main when served with rice. Minimal prep means kielbasa and sauce can be assembled ahead for added convenience. Store leftovers in the fridge up to four days, or freeze for longer. Enjoy warm and tender results each time with this effortless approach to a classic party favorite—perfect for busy evenings or entertaining a crowd.

Casey
Updated on Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:16:02 GMT
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites Pin it
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites | cookingwithcasey.com

These Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites come together with almost no effort and never fail to disappear fast at gatherings. Rings of kielbasa get slow-cooked in a sticky sweet tangy sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you are looking for a party app or an easy dinner, these are always a winner in my book.

The first time I served these at a game day gathering I barely had time to sneak a bite before the whole batch was gone. Now I double the recipe for family parties and we always find an excuse to make them.

Ingredients

  • Kielbasa sausage: I prefer using a classic smoked kielbasa found at most grocery stores Look for sausages with a snappy casings and minimum added fillers
  • Chili sauce: Lends mild heat and a lovely tomato-rich tang Choose a trusted brand and check for a good balance of sweetness and spice
  • Barbecue sauce: Adds bold barbecue flavor and brings everything together I like whichever sauce is already a household favorite
  • Grape jelly: Delivers a sweet finish and creates that luscious sticky glaze I go for real fruit grape jelly for deeper flavor
  • Worcestershire sauce: Provides umami and depth in the sauce
  • Garlic powder: Easy punch of savory flavor Opt for a fresh bottle so the taste stays prominent
  • Onion powder: Layers in mellow aromatic notes Choose a powder without any caking or off colors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Slow Cooker:
Spray the insert of your slow cooker with a light coat to prevent sticking This will help you clean up quickly later
Cut and Add the Kielbasa:
Slice the kielbasa into even bite-size pieces and toss them into the slow cooker Try for similar-size bites so everything heats evenly
Make the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl add your chili sauce barbecue sauce grape jelly Worcestershire garlic powder and onion powder Whisk until the jelly melts in and the sauce looks fully combined
Coat the Kielbasa:
Pour the sauce over the sliced sausage pieces Stir gently to coat every piece well with that glaze
Cook to Perfection:
Cover with the lid and cook on high for about two to three hours or low for four to six hours The bites are ready when heated through and the sauce is bubbling and thickened
Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the hot kielbasa and sauce into a serving dish with toothpicks or serve over rice for a heartier meal
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites Pin it
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites | cookingwithcasey.com

Grape jelly makes this dish shine It always surprises friends when I share the secret ingredient My family laughs remembering the first time I made these and how we guessed the mystery flavor before I finally admitted it

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before sealing in an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to three months Reheat slowly on the stovetop or microwave stirring as you go to keep the sauce glossy

Ingredient Substitutions

No grape jelly on hand Try apple jelly or apricot preserves If you like more heat swap in your favorite spicy barbecue sauce Any smoked sausage will work if kielbasa is not available

Serving Suggestions

These bites shine on a buffet with toothpicks nestled alongside crunchy pickles or fresh rolls For dinner ladle over a bed of buttery rice or alongside roasted potatoes and simple greens

Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites Pin it
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites | cookingwithcasey.com

Party Appetizer Origins

Kielbasa with sweet and tangy sauces is a mainstay of American potlucks The magic combo of jelly and chili or barbecue sauce traces back decades and is always a guaranteed hit at gatherings of every kind

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare these bites in advance?

Absolutely! Cut the kielbasa and mix the sauce up to two days ahead. Keep refrigerated, then combine and start the slow cooker when ready.

→ What’s the ideal serving method?

These flavorful bites work well with toothpicks for appetizers, or serve over rice for a complete meal.

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, smoked sausage or andouille can be substituted—just adjust seasonings to match your taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Place cooled kielbasa bites in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.

→ Is reheating easy?

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Slow Cooker Kielbasa Bites

Smoky kielbasa slow cooked in sweet and savory sauce. Great appetizer or simple main dish everyone will love.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
120 Minutes
Total Time
125 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Tasty Snacks

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2 pounds kielbasa, up to 3 pounds
02 12 ounces chili sauce, 1 jar
03 1 cup barbecue sauce
04 1 cup grape jelly
05 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
06 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
07 ½ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Step 01

Spray slow cooker with cooking spray.

Step 02

Cut kielbasa into bite-sized pieces and place in the prepared slow cooker.

Step 03

Combine chili sauce, barbecue sauce, grape jelly, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl and whisk to combine.

Step 04

Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the kielbasa in the slow cooker.

Step 05

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, or until kielbasa bites are heated through.

Step 06

Serve as an appetizer or with rice for dinner.

Notes

  1. Refrigerator: Let kielbasa cool and then place in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 4 days.
  2. Freezer: Let kielbasa bites cool before transferring to a freezer-safe, airtight container. Kielbasa can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. Reheat: Heat them in the microwave or on the stovetop to enjoy.
  4. Make Ahead: The kielbasa can be cut in advance, and the sauce assembled up to 2 days in advance. When you’re ready, just dump in your slow cooker and cook as instructed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 598
  • Total Fat: 33 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 55 g
  • Protein: 18 g