If you love easy slow cooker appetizer recipes that practically cook themselves, this BBQ kielbasa is going to be right up your alley. It uses just a handful of pantry ingredients and turns out tender, sticky, and full of flavor every single time.
This recipe is especially great for parties, game day, or those days when you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of prep. Slice it up, stir everything together, and let the slow cooker do the work.
Looking for even more super simple appetizer recipes? We love this one for Little Smokies in Grape Jelly as well as these 3 Ingredient Slow Cooker Meatballs. Here's a big list of my favorite Easy Party Foods for even more!
Table of contents
Why I Love This BBQ Kielbasa Recipe
This BBQ kielbasa recipe uses just a few simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, which makes it perfect for last-minute entertaining or easy weeknight meals.
It works equally well as a slow cooker appetizer or a casual dinner served over rice or mashed potatoes.
The sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, paired with brown sugar, creates a beautiful sauce that clings to every slice of kielbasa.
The optional Dijon mustard adds just enough tang to balance the sweetness without overpowering the dish.
It’s a recipe that always gets eaten, which is exactly what you want for potlucks and gatherings!
Ingredients
Kielbasa - You can use your favorite brand and flavor. Try a spicy kielbasa for a spicier recipe, or a plain kielbasa to enjoy the sauce's flavors.
BBQ Sauce - Use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce in this recipe. Again, this is another way you can change it up if you'd like!
Brown Sugar - This gives this recipe a little bit of sweetness for that sweet and smoky vibe.
Dijon Mustard - This is an optional ingredient, but adds a really nice tang if you happen to have it.
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Instructions
Step 1
Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2
Add the sliced kielbasa to the slow cooker.
Step 3
In a small bowl, stir together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using).
Step 4
Pour the sauce over the kielbasa and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5
Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1½–2 hours, stirring once if you think about it.
Serve warm directly from the slow cooker.
Tips for the Best BBQ Kielbasa
If your BBQ sauce is very sweet, start with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and add more to taste.
For a thicker, stickier sauce, remove the lid during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
Slice the kielbasa evenly so it cooks and coats consistently.
This recipe works well in a small slow cooker for parties or tailgating.
Variations
Add sliced onions to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
Use spicy BBQ sauce if you want a little heat
Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to turn this into a simple dinner.
FAQs
Yes. Cook as directed, let cool, and store in the refrigerator. Reheat in the slow cooker on LOW or in a saucepan on the stove.
Absolutely. Turkey kielbasa works well and cooks the same way.
It’s balanced, not overly sweet. The Dijon mustard helps cut the sweetness, and you can always reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Yes. This recipe doubles easily. Just make sure your slow cooker isn’t overcrowded.
More Delicious Appetizers
Printable Recipe
Kielbasa in the Slow Cooker (BBQ - 3 Ingredients)
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 kielbasa sliced into 1-inch pieces
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce use your favorite brand
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard optional
Instructions
- Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the sliced kielbasa to the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, stir together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Pour the sauce over the kielbasa and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 1½–2 hours, stirring once if you think about it.
- Serve warm directly from the slow cooker.
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