Honey Mustard Bites

This crockpot honey mustard kielbasa has turned into my favorite crowd-pleaser whenever I need something that impresses guests while keeping me free from kitchen duty. The mix of hearty sausage with the sticky sweet-tangy coating makes for a taste combo that vanishes from plates almost instantly.

I first whipped up these sausage nibbles during a championship game party a few years back, and folks have asked for them at every get-together since. Even my sibling who swears he hates mustard can't quit eating them once he takes that first bite.

Ingredients

• Kielbasa sausage: Cut into snackable chunks creates the hearty foundation for this appetizer. Go for premium smoked kielbasa with noticeable spices throughout for maximum taste.
• Pure honey: Delivers natural sweetness that browns up nicely. Try nearby farm honey if you can find it for extra flavor layers.
• Dijon mustard: Adds key zip and richness. Pick a creamy type instead of grainy for the best sauce texture.
• Low sodium soy sauce: Brings savory depth without overdoing saltiness. Its fermented qualities boost all other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get the sausage ready:

Cut the kielbasa into roughly half-inch thick coins or angled pieces. Same-sized chunks cook evenly and work better with toothpicks. Don't remove the outer casing as it helps each piece keep its shape.

Mix up the sauce:

Stir honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce together in a bowl until fully blended. The mix should be smooth and thick enough to coat a spoon. This yummy blend will eventually turn into a sticky coating on the sausage.

Toss everything in the crockpot:

Drop the sliced kielbasa into your slow cooker and dump the honey mustard mix all over it. Give it a good stir so every piece gets coated. Don't worry if the sauce looks runny - it'll thicken up nicely while cooking.

Let it cook slowly:

Put the lid on and cook on low for 4 hours, giving it a stir now and then to coat everything evenly. The edges will start to brown, and the sauce will get thick and shiny, clinging to each piece.

Keep it hot:

Leave it in the crockpot on the warm setting throughout your event. Set out toothpicks for easy grabbing, or arrange on a nice platter if you want it to look fancier.

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The honey-mustard blend in this recipe always brings back memories of weekend meals at my grandma's place. She always told me the trick to happy guests was having something warm and tasty waiting when they came in. This kielbasa snack keeps that tradition going, filling your home with smells that make everyone feel right at home.

Make Ahead Options

You can get these kielbasa bites totally ready up to 8 hours before your party. Just cook as directed, then flip your crockpot to warm until it's time to eat. The flavor actually gets better as it sits, with the sauce growing richer and the sausage edges turning more caramelized. If you need to store it longer, keep the cooked kielbasa in its sauce in the fridge and warm it back up in the crockpot or microwave before serving.

Easy Variations

The standard recipe tastes great by itself, but you can tweak it to match what you like. Splash in some bourbon for extra depth, mix in garlic powder for savory kick, or add sriracha or chili flakes for some heat. For more complex flavors, try mixing in brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to the sauce before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These honey mustard kielbasa chunks go great with other finger foods like cheese boards, raw veggie platters, and crusty bread for mopping up leftover sauce. For something heartier, put them with small pretzel buns to make tiny sandwiches. Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving to add color and freshness that cuts through the richness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I try it with other sausages?

Sure! Smoked or chicken sausage works great. Just tweak cooking times if needed.

→ Can this dish be prepped in advance?

Definitely! Cook it ahead, then reheat in the slow cooker or stovetop when you're ready to serve.

→ Is it okay to swap Dijon for another mustard type?

Absolutely. Feel free to use yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard for a new twist.

→ What pairs well with sausage bites?

Serve with toothpicks, and add crackers, veggies, or cheese for a tasty spread.

→ How do I handle leftovers?

Keep them in the fridge in a sealed container for up to three days. Reheat gently before enjoying.

→ Can maple syrup replace honey in the recipe?

Yes, maple syrup makes a tasty substitute, adding its own unique sweetness.