Welcome to a recipe that promises to be an instant favorite for any gathering, big or small! Today, we’re diving into the incredibly simple yet utterly delicious world of our CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa. This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a testament to effortless entertaining, designed to free you from kitchen stress so you can truly enjoy your event. With a mere handful of ingredients, a few simple steps, and the magic of your slow cooker, you’ll have a mouth-watering dish ready to impress in just a few hours. Get ready to say “Hello, yum!” to this perfect blend of savory kielbasa enveloped in a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze.
Crockpot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa: Your Go-To Easy Party Appetizer
The beauty of this Crockpot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa recipe lies in its remarkable simplicity and universal appeal. It’s truly “crazy easy” to prepare, making it an absolute lifesaver for hosts and hostesses. Whether you’re gearing up for a lively football party, ringing in the New Year with friends, hosting a casual get-together, or simply looking for an unbelievably tasty snack any day of the year, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Its fantastic flavor profile, combining the smoky richness of kielbasa with a sweet, subtly boozy glaze, consistently earns rave reviews and disappears quickly from any serving dish.
If you’re a fan of kielbasa, you’ll be thrilled to discover its incredible versatility beyond this recipe. We’ve dedicated an entire section of our site to exploring a wide range of
kielbasa recipes, from appetizers that vanish in minutes to hearty entrees that satisfy the most robust appetites. For instance, our
Crock Pot Spicy BBQ Kielbasa
offers a delightful kick of spice that perfectly balances sweetness with heat. Imagine setting up two slow cookers at your next event, one with our bourbon-glazed version and the other with the spicy BBQ option, letting your guests enjoy a delicious taste test! It’s an interactive and flavorful way to showcase the best of slow-cooked kielbasa.
This beloved recipe first made its debut way back in November 2013, and it has remained a steadfast favorite ever since. The enduring popularity of these bourbon-glazed kielbasa bites is a testament to their irresistible flavor and effortless preparation. It’s a recipe that has truly stood the test of time, proving that great taste and convenience never go out of style.
Our love for bourbon-infused appetizers extends far beyond kielbasa. If you enjoy the warm, rich notes that bourbon adds to a dish, you absolutely must try our other easy slow cooker options. The
Crock Pot Bourbon Lit’l Smokies
are another fantastic choice for
Crock Pot appetizer recipes, offering a similar sweet and savory profile with miniature sausages. For those who can’t get enough of that delightful combination, our
Bacon Bourbon Meatballs
are another crowd-pleasing addition, bringing the smoky goodness of bacon into the mix. These recipes prove that bourbon isn’t just for cocktails; it’s a secret ingredient for unforgettable appetizers!
Ingredients for Unforgettable Flavor
Crafting this epic Crock-Pot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa requires just a few simple, readily available ingredients. The magic happens when these elements meld together slowly, creating a glaze that’s both sweet and savory, with a delightful hint of warmth from the bourbon. For precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
- Polska Kielbasa: We typically opt for Hillshire Farms Polska Kielbasa for its consistent quality and delicious smoky flavor. You’ll want to slice it into bite-sized pieces, roughly ½ to ¾ inch thick, which allows each piece to absorb the luscious glaze beautifully. You can also experiment with other types of smoked sausage if kielbasa isn’t available.
- Sweet Apricot Preserves: These preserves form the sweet, fruity base of our glaze. Apricot offers a lovely tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory kielbasa and rich bourbon. If apricot preserves aren’t on hand, peach preserves or orange marmalade make excellent substitutions, providing similar fruity notes and thickness.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best results, as its natural sweetness and depth of flavor truly elevate the glaze. Avoid artificial pancake syrups, which can be overly sweet and lack the complex notes. Maple syrup contributes to that perfect sticky, sweet coating on the kielbasa.
- Bourbon Whiskey or Apple Juice: This is where the “bourbon glazed” magic comes from! A good quality bourbon adds a sophisticated warmth and depth of flavor to the sauce. You don’t need an expensive top-shelf bourbon, but one you enjoy drinking will taste great in the dish. For an alcohol-free alternative, apple juice is an excellent substitute, providing a similar fruity sweetness and tang that complements the other ingredients without the alcohol content.
Essential Equipment for Easy Cooking
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is how little specialized equipment it requires. The slow cooker does almost all the work, making your life incredibly easy.
- CrockPot (Slow Cooker): A slow cooker is indispensable for this recipe. We highly recommend models with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete. This feature is particularly useful when preparing appetizers for parties, as it keeps your kielbasa perfectly warm and ready to serve without overcooking. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker works well for the specified recipe amount, but you can adjust based on the quantity you’re making.
- Kitchen Spoon/Stirring Utensil: A sturdy spoon or spatula is all you need to combine the ingredients and stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even glazing.
- Toothpicks or Small Serving Forks: These are ideal for serving, allowing guests to easily pick up individual kielbasa bites without making a mess.
Effortless Preparation: How to Make CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
You might not believe how truly simple the instructions for this recipe are, but don’t let the ease fool you—the results are absolutely spectacular! While complete, detailed instructions are provided in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post, here’s a quick overview of just how straightforward it is:
- Combine All Ingredients in the CrockPot: Simply add the sliced kielbasa, apricot preserves, maple syrup, and bourbon (or apple juice) directly into your slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to ensure the kielbasa pieces are well coated in the delicious glaze mixture. This initial coating is key to developing that rich, even flavor.
- Cover and Cook: Place the lid firmly on your CrockPot and set it to cook on the low setting for 4 hours. The slow, gentle heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a tender kielbasa and a thick, glossy glaze. If you’re in a bit more of a hurry, you can cook on high for 2 hours, but low and slow often yields the best depth of flavor.
Seriously, could the directions be any easier? This minimal effort is precisely why we adore slow cooker recipes, especially for entertaining. This Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa appetizer is the quintessential dish for football parties, holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any event where you want to serve something delicious without being chained to the kitchen. You simply toss everything into the CrockPot, and it takes care of the rest, allowing you to relax, mingle with your guests, and genuinely enjoy your event without any last-minute fuss.
Preparation and Storage Made Easy
One of the many benefits of this CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa recipe is its flexibility for making ahead and simple storage solutions, ensuring you can enjoy these savory bites at your convenience.
Make Ahead: This slow cooker appetizer requires approximately four hours of cooking time in your CrockPot, making it an ideal candidate for advance preparation. You can set it to cook a few hours before your guests arrive, allowing you ample time to focus on other game day menu items, set up your space, or simply unwind until it’s time to serve. The “warm” setting on most slow cookers is perfect for holding these without overcooking.
Storage: Any leftover Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. When stored correctly, these delicious bites will maintain their quality and flavor for up to three days, making them perfect for enjoying as snacks or part of a quick meal.
Freezing/How to Freeze: For longer storage, Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa freezes exceptionally well. Allow the cooked kielbasa to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty Ziploc freezer bag. Ensure as much air as possible is removed from the bag to prevent freezer burn. These can be safely frozen for up to three months, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or unexpected cravings.
How to Reheat: Reheating leftover portions of these flavorful cocktail sausage bites is straightforward. Depending on the quantity you need to heat, you have several convenient options:
- Microwave: For small servings, a microwave is quick and efficient. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: For larger amounts, gently reheat the kielbasa and glaze in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Add a splash of water or apple juice if the sauce seems too thick.
- CrockPot: If you have a significant amount of leftovers and want to serve them warm for another gathering, place them back into a clean slow cooker set to the “low” or “warm” setting until heated through, stirring periodically.
Recipe Variations for Every Palate
This CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Substitutions:
- Bourbon Choice: We often use Jim Beam Bourbon in this recipe, but the best bourbon to use is truly what you prefer and have on hand. Don’t feel pressured to use an expensive bottle; a mid-range bourbon will impart plenty of flavor. Experiment with different types like rye bourbon for a spicier note or wheated bourbon for a smoother finish.
- Maple Syrup Enhancement: To intensify the bourbon flavor in both the kielbasa and the glaze, we’ve sometimes used Trader Joe’s bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup, which adds another layer of complexity. However, any good quality pure maple syrup will work beautifully and provide the necessary sweetness and texture.
- Kielbasa Alternatives: While Polska Kielbasa is our go-to, this recipe also works exceptionally well with other types of smoked sausage, such as beef smoked sausage, turkey kielbasa, or even cocktail wieners (often called “Little Smokies”) for a smaller bite. Adjust cooking time slightly if using very thin sausages.
- Preserve Options: Beyond apricot, consider peach preserves, orange marmalade, or even a mixed berry preserve for a different fruity dimension. Each will lend a unique sweetness and tang to the glaze.
Dietary Options:
- Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the traditional kielbasa with a high-quality meatless sausage alternative. Many brands offer delicious plant-based smoked sausages that will hold up well in the slow cooker and absorb the glaze.
- Vegan Option: Building on the vegetarian guidance, vegans should ensure that their chosen meatless sausage is entirely plant-based. Additionally, it’s crucial to check the ingredient list for your apricot preserves and maple syrup to confirm they do not contain any animal-derived sweeteners, such as honey, which is sometimes used.
- Gluten-Free: Generally, the core ingredients in this recipe (kielbasa, preserves, maple syrup, bourbon/apple juice) tend to be gluten-free. However, if you or your guests are highly sensitive or have severe celiac disease, always check for a “gluten-free” label on each individual product to avoid any potential cross-contamination.
- Alcohol-Free Option: We adore the nuanced flavor notes that bourbon adds to this kielbasa, but it’s entirely possible to make this dish alcohol-free without sacrificing flavor. You can easily replace the bourbon with an equal amount of good quality apple juice for a similar fruity sweetness, or explore non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives available on the market.
- Sugar-Free: To create a sugar-free version of this appetizer, substitute the apricot preserves and maple syrup with their sugar-free counterparts. Many brands offer sugar-free preserves and sugar-free maple syrup made with alternative sweeteners. If you opt for apple juice as an alcohol substitute, ensure you use a sugar-free variety.
Serving Size Adjustments: We typically use 1.5 pounds of sliced kielbasa to yield approximately 24 pieces of Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa, which is enough to generously fill a small to medium-sized serving dish. This quantity is perfect for a smaller gathering or as one of several appetizers. If you’re hosting a larger crowd or want to ensure plenty of leftovers, you can easily scale the written recipe up. When doubling or tripling, consider using a larger slow cooker or working in batches if your cooker isn’t big enough to prevent overcrowding, which can affect cooking evenness and glaze consistency.
Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, it’s incredibly simple to transform this sweet and savory appetizer into a spicy sensation. Add some
chili sauce
(like Sriracha or sweet chili sauce), a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to taste. Start with a small amount and increase gradually until you reach your desired level of spice.
Expert Tips for the Best CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
Achieving perfect Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your appetizer from great to absolutely unforgettable.
-
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker: While any slow cooker will work, for party preparation, consider using a
triple slow cooker. This allows you to offer multiple appetizers (like our spicy BBQ kielbasa alongside this bourbon-glazed version) while conserving counter or table space. Programmable slow cookers with a “keep warm” function are also highly recommended, as they prevent overcooking and maintain an ideal serving temperature. - Optimal Kielbasa Slicing: Cut your kielbasa into consistent, bite-sized pieces, ideally about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and allows each piece to be perfectly coated in the rich, glossy glaze. Avoid slicing too thin, which can make the kielbasa dry, or too thick, which may not absorb the sauce as well.
- Stirring for Even Glaze: While slow cookers are mostly hands-off, giving the kielbasa a stir once or twice during the cooking process helps to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the glaze. This prevents sticking and guarantees a beautiful, even shine and flavor distribution.
- Serving Presentation: These Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa bites are wonderfully versatile for serving. You can present them elegantly in a small to medium-sized serving dish, allowing guests to scoop them out. For ultimate convenience at a party, arrange them on a platter with individual toothpicks already inserted into each piece, making them effortless finger food.
- Consider Browning (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can quickly brown the sliced kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step isn’t essential for the recipe’s success but can add a deeper, more caramelized taste and firmer texture to the sausage.
- Nutritional Information Disclaimer: Please remember that nutrition information, including calories, protein, carbohydrates, fat, and other values, is an estimate. It will vary depending on the specific brands and products you use for your ingredients (e.g., the fat content of kielbasa, the sugar content of preserves, the type of bourbon). For precise dietary information, it’s best to calculate it with your chosen ingredients.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
These Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa bites are an excellent standalone appetizer, but they truly shine when paired with other complementary dishes. If you’re hosting a party for the big game or any festive occasion, here are some of our favorite easy
Game Day Appetizers
that score big in flavor and ease, allowing you to relax and enjoy the game (or the commercials, depending on your preference!).
- CrockPot Grape Jelly Meatballs: An absolute classic! These incredibly simple meatballs require only 3 ingredients and offer a sweet and tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the bourbon kielbasa.
- CrockPot Jamaican Jerk Wings: For those who love a bit of a kick, these wings are incredibly flavorful and always a crowd-pleaser. Their bold, savory spice makes a great counterpoint to the sweetness of the glazed kielbasa.
- Copycat CrockPot Chili’s Queso: Hello, YUM! This creamy, cheesy dip is dangerously delicious and universally loved. Serve it with tortilla chips, and you’ll have a hard time not eating the entire dish yourself! It’s perfect for dipping and adds a comforting element to your spread.
- CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs: A delightful and festive twist on the traditional meatball recipe, these offer a fruity, savory barbecue flavor that complements the kielbasa beautifully, especially during holiday seasons.
- Buffalo Chicken Wontons: These crispy, flavor-packed wontons only look complicated to make. In reality, they’re surprisingly easy and add a fantastic textural and spicy element to your appetizer spread.
- Chicken and Waffles with Spicy Dipping Sauce: For a truly unique and indulgent spread, these sweet and savory bites with a zesty kick taste absolutely amazing and will be a memorable addition to your party menu.
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve a basket of warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls alongside the kielbasa to soak up all that incredible bourbon glaze.
- Cheese and Cracker Platter: A simple cheese and cracker platter provides a nice textural contrast and a cooling element to balance the richness of the kielbasa.
Ideal Occasions: When to Serve This Dish
Slow Cooker Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa Bites are the epitome of versatile entertaining food. Their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make them perfect for almost any occasion where good food and good company are desired. This amazing, easy appetizer recipe is ideal for making ahead, allowing you to focus on your guests and the festivities rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
- Game Day Snacks: Whether it’s football, basketball, or any other sport, these kielbasa bites are a guaranteed touchdown. They stay warm throughout the game and are easy for fans to grab between plays.
- Casual Parties & Get-Togethers: For any informal gathering, from neighborhood potlucks to backyard BBQs, this dish is a fuss-free option that always disappears quickly.
- Cocktail Night: Their sophisticated flavor profile, thanks to the bourbon, makes them a perfect companion for an evening of cocktails and conversation.
- Football Game Day Parties: Specifically designed for the ultimate game day spread, they provide a hearty, satisfying appetizer that fuels cheering sections.
- Christmas Parties & Holiday Gatherings: During the busy holiday season, recipes that require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor are invaluable. These fit right in, offering a festive and comforting bite.
- Potlucks: Because they travel well in a slow cooker and can be kept warm, they are an excellent contribution to any potluck, ensuring you bring a dish everyone will love.
-
General
Crock Pot Game Day Recipes
Events:
Whenever the slow cooker is your best friend for feeding a crowd, these kielbasa bites should be at the top of your list.
Discover More Great Recipe Collections
If you loved how easy and delicious this CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa was, you’re in for a treat! We have curated a variety of recipe collections designed to inspire your culinary adventures and make meal planning simpler and more enjoyable. Explore these collections for more fantastic ideas:
Slow Cooker Soups: Dive into a world of comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make Crock Pot soup recipes. These hearty soups are perfect for chilly evenings and make dinner a breeze.
Quick and Easy Finger Food Appetizers: Hosting a party has never been simpler with our collection of the perfect appetizers that guests can effortlessly pick up and enjoy. Less fuss, more flavor!
Casserole Recipes: Explore our absolute best casserole creations, known for being incredibly easy to assemble, bake, and, most importantly, tasting absolutely amazing. Perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd.
What to Make with Cream Cheese: Got a block of cream cheese in your fridge and wondering what to do with it? Unlock its potential with these fabulous recipes that highlight the creamy versatility of cream cheese in both sweet and savory dishes.
Cherry Pie Filling Recipes: Indulge your sweet tooth with a ton of delightful desserts, from pies to cobblers, all made with the convenience and deliciousness of cherry pie filling.
Banana Recipes: Make the most of your ripe bananas with our favorite recipes, ranging from classic banana bread to creative new ways to enjoy this versatile fruit, including options for dried bananas too!
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our extensive range of
copycat recipes
for recreating your restaurant favorites at home, explore our decadent
dessert recipes
for every sweet craving, and simplify your meal prep with our ever-growing collection of
CrockPot Recipes.
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Crock Pot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
29 votes
Print
Rate
5 minutes
4 hours
4 hours
5 minutes
24
Pieces
115
kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
-
1.5
pound
Kielbasa
sliced -
1
cup
Apricot Preserves
-
½
cup
maple syrup
-
2
Tablespoon
Bourbon
or apple juice
Metric
Instructions
- Combine all kielbasa slices, apricot preserves, maple syrup, and bourbon (or apple juice) in the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure every piece of kielbasa is thoroughly coated in the glaze mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 4 hours. The low, slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen and the glaze to thicken perfectly. If desired, give it a stir midway through cooking for even coating.
Notes
The stated 1.5 pounds of Kielbasa will comfortably fill a small to medium-sized serving dish, yielding approximately 24 delightful bites. For larger groups or events where you anticipate high demand, we strongly recommend doubling the recipe to ensure everyone gets to enjoy these irresistible appetizers.
Please keep in mind that all nutritional information provided is a rough estimate. Actual values can vary greatly depending on the specific brands and types of products you choose to use for your ingredients. For precise dietary information, it is best to calculate based on your exact selections.
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 72
12%
19%
7%
11%
2%
2%
4%
8%
1%
1%
6%
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Recipe Originally shared – November 2013, Updated in 2018 and January 2020