When family gathers around the dinner table, there's nothing quite like a dish that's both heartwarming and satisfying. Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa is one of those recipes that, while simple, brings a sweet and savory magic to any meal. Its origins might not be steeped in history, but it represents the best of home-cooked comfort found here in the Midwest, where kielbasa is a meat staple. You may want to make this especially during fall or winter gatherings, game days, or anytime you’re in the mood for a hearty dish that is both a crowd-pleaser and a time-saver.
To complement the sweetness and richness of the Candied Kielbasa, a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice works wonders. If you're looking for something a bit lighter, a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables rounded out with a bit of apple cider vinegar make a delightful balance. And, don't forget a stack of warm dinner rolls for soppin' up that lovely sauce!
Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
1. Start by laying your sliced kielbasa into the bottom of a slow cooker, ensuring an even layer.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Pour this sweet and savory mixture over the kielbasa in the slow cooker. Toss gently to make sure each piece is coated in the sauce.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the kielbasa to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, cook on high for about 2-3 hours if you’re short on time.
5. Once done, give the kielbasa a gentle stir to coat with the sauce once more.
6. Serve warm, straight from the slow cooker, ensuring everyone gets plenty of that scrumptious sauce.
Variations & Tips:
- For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- If you have apple lovers at home, adding a chopped apple into the mix infuses a lovely fruitiness.
- This dish can also accommodate pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that pairs exceptionally with the kielbasa.
- If your family includes folks watching their sugar intake, try reducing the brown sugar to 3/4 cup and add a tablespoon of honey for natural sweetness.
- Leftovers hold up well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated, making for delightful sandwiches or a quick protein addition to a salad.
- Always remember to keep that cooker covered to maintain even cooking temperatures and prevent the sauce from drying out. With dishes like this, it's all about that low and slow process that turns simple ingredients into something special. Enjoy!
