Slow Cooker Honey Mustard

This slow cooker honey mustard kielbasa recipe has become my go-to party appetizer whenever I need something that wows guests without keeping me trapped in the kitchen. The combination of savory sausage with the sweet and tangy glaze creates an irresistible flavor profile that disappears from the serving dish in minutes.

I first made these kielbasa bites for a Super Bowl party three years ago, and they've been requested at every gathering since. Even my brother who claims to dislike mustard can't stop eating them once he starts.

Ingredients

• Kielbasa sausage: Sliced into bite sized pieces provides the perfect savory base for this appetizer. Look for high quality smoked kielbasa with visible spices in the meat for best flavor.
• Pure honey: Adds natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully. Use local raw honey if available for more complex flavor notes.
• Dijon mustard: Brings essential tanginess and depth. Choose a smooth variety rather than whole grain for the perfect sauce consistency.
• Low sodium soy sauce: Adds umami richness without making the dish too salty. The fermented quality enhances all the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the kielbasa:

Slice the sausage into approximately half inch thick rounds or diagonal cuts. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and make for easier serving with toothpicks. If your kielbasa has a casing, leave it on as it helps the pieces hold their shape.

Make the glaze:

Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce in a bowl until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and have a medium thickness that will coat the back of a spoon. This sweet tangy sauce will eventually caramelize around the kielbasa.

Combine in slow cooker:

Add the sliced kielbasa to your slow cooker and pour the honey mustard mixture over the sausage. Gently stir to ensure all pieces are thoroughly coated with the sauce. The sauce may seem thin at first, but it will thicken beautifully during cooking.

Slow cook to perfection:

Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating. The edges of the kielbasa will begin to caramelize, and the sauce will thicken into a glossy glaze that clings to each piece.

Serve warm:

Keep warm in the slow cooker set to the warm setting during your gathering. Provide toothpicks for easy grabbing, or transfer to a serving platter for a more elegant presentation.

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The combination of honey and mustard in this recipe reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother's house. She always said the secret to keeping people happy was having something warm and flavorful ready when they walked through the door. This kielbasa recipe carries on that tradition perfectly, filling the house with an inviting aroma that makes everyone feel welcome.

Make Ahead Options

These kielbasa bites can be fully prepared up to 8 hours before your event. Simply cook according to instructions, then switch your slow cooker to the warm setting until serving time. The flavor actually improves as it sits, with the sauce becoming more concentrated and the kielbasa edges developing more caramelization. For multi day storage, refrigerate the cooked kielbasa in its sauce and reheat in the slow cooker or microwave before serving.

Easy Variations

The basic recipe is delicious on its own, but you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add a tablespoon of bourbon for depth, include a teaspoon of garlic powder for savory notes, or introduce some heat with a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes. For a more complex flavor profile, try adding two tablespoons of brown sugar and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the sauce mixture before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These honey mustard kielbasa bites work beautifully alongside other finger foods like cheese platters, vegetable crudités, and crusty bread for soaking up extra sauce. For a more substantial offering, serve them with small pretzel rolls to make mini sandwiches. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions just before serving to add color and a fresh flavor contrast that cuts through the richness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, smoked sausage or chicken sausage can work well in this dish. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the sausage type.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kielbasa bites in advance and reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.

→ Can I substitute Dijon mustard with another mustard?

Yes, you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard for a slightly different flavor profile.

→ What should I serve with kielbasa bites?

Serve them with toothpicks alongside other appetizers like crackers, cheese, or fresh vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey for a slightly different sweetness.