If you’re on the lookout for an irresistible crowd-pleaser that basically cooks itself, you’re about to fall in love with Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa. This recipe is the life of every party: smoky kielbasa, blanketed in a sticky, tangy-sweet glaze, all thanks to a magical trio of ketchup, brown sugar, and a punch of horseradish. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have bite-sized flavor bombs that are perfect for game day spreads or cozy family get-togethers. Wait until you see how easy it is to make this unforgettable treat!

Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Truly, you don’t need much to create something delicious here—the beauty of Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa lies in the harmony of just a few all-star ingredients. Each one brings a special note: smoky, spicy, sweet, or tangy. Here’s what you need and why you need it:

Kielbasa: Classic smoked kielbasa is the real star, bringing savory, hearty flavor to every bite.
Ketchup: Adds a rich tomato base and a touch of tanginess that balances the sweetness.
Horseradish (creamed or prepared): This is the secret kick! It gives a gentle spicy note and depth—prepared, creamed, or your favorite style all work.
Brown Sugar: Brings that crave-worthy caramelized sweetness and helps create the glossy glaze.

How to Make Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa

Step 1: Slice the Kielbasa

Start by cutting your kielbasa into thick, 1-inch coins. Be sure to make straight-down cuts—not at an angle—so every piece looks picture-perfect and cooks evenly. Thick slices will hold their shape and soak up maximum glaze.

Step 2: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

Toss those hearty kielbasa rounds right into your slow cooker. Then add the ketchup, horseradish, and brown sugar directly on top. There’s no need to dirty another bowl—just let all the flavors settle together in the pot.

Step 3: Stir Well

Give everything a generous stir so each piece of kielbasa is coated with that sweet and spicy mixture. This ensures an even glaze and maximum taste in every bite.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Pop the lid on your slow cooker, set it to HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 hours, and let the magic happen! Be sure to stir once or twice during cooking. The longer it cooks, the more the kielbasa soaks up that glossy, sticky sauce that makes Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa totally unforgettable.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa

Garnishes

For a pop of color or a fresh twist, sprinkle over some finely sliced green onions, fresh parsley, or even a scant dusting of cracked black pepper. Toothpicks are also a must for easy, mess-free party snacking!

Side Dishes

This recipe shines next to buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a batch of pillowy dinner rolls. For a full party platter, add crunchy pickles, tangy sauerkraut, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the candied kielbasa.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa into a mini meal by tucking slices inside slider buns or folding them into quesadillas. For appetizers, skewering each piece with a toothpick and brushing on a little extra glaze makes for an instant crowd favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa keeps like a dream! Let everything cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers extra punchy and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to make a double batch or save some for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Just portion into freezer-safe containers, let cool, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm leftover candied kielbasa in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and glossy again. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened up too much.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or beef kielbasa instead of pork?

Absolutely! Turkey or beef kielbasa both work well here and will absorb the sauce just like classic pork kielbasa. Choose whichever variety suits your preferences or dietary needs.

Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa without horseradish?

Yes, though horseradish adds a special depth and gentle heat, you can skip it or swap in a bit of grainy mustard if you’re not a fan. The result will still be deliciously sweet and tangy.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?

Definitely! Just be sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold everything, and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and coating. The cook time may need a slight increase if the pot is very full.

How long can Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa sit on “warm” at a party?

It stays tasty for up to 3 hours on the warm setting, allowing guests to come back for seconds (and thirds!) without the sauce drying out. Just give it a gentle stir every now and then to keep the glaze luscious.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No problem! You can make candied kielbasa on the stovetop using a heavy-bottomed pot. Simmer everything over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the kielbasa soaks it all up (about 45–60 minutes).

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about the unbeatable blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy that makes Slow Cooker Candied Kielbasa unforgettable—and unbelievably easy! I truly hope you give this recipe a try; it’s one you’ll come back to for every occasion, big or small. Let me know how you served it up and what your guests thought—happy cooking!