Slow cooker honey mustard has been my go-to for effortless entertaining since I first stumbled upon this recipe. I remember a chaotic game day years ago when I needed a quick appetizer, and this recipe saved the day! The aroma of the sweet and tangy glaze bubbling away in the crock pot is just incredible. I’ve since adapted it to make these amazing kielbasa bites, and they’re always a huge hit. This easy slow cooker honey mustard recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
This slow cooker honey mustard recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. The sweet and savory flavor combination is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages. Plus, using your slow cooker means minimal fuss and maximum flavor development. It’s a budget-friendly way to make a delicious appetizer or meal.
- Amazing Taste: A perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard creates a rich, irresistible glaze.
- Minimal Prep Time: Just 10 minutes of chopping and whisking before letting the slow cooker do all the work.
- Effortless Cooking: Set it and forget it! This is the definition of easy slow cooker honey mustard.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this savory and slightly sweet flavor profile.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, inexpensive ingredients for a fantastic result.
- Versatile Serving: Great as an appetizer or a main dish with your favorite sides, like this honey mustard pork slow cooker meal.
- Flavorful Glaze: The slow cooking process melds the ingredients into a perfect honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious slow cooker honey mustard recipe. These simple components come together to create that signature sweet and tangy glaze. I love how just a few pantry staples can transform humble kielbasa into something truly special.
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced – I like to slice mine about 1/4-inch thick for the perfect bite.
- 1/2 cup honey – This is the base for our sweet glaze, providing that classic honey mustard flavor.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – For that essential tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds a touch more sweetness and helps create that sticky, irresistible texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful savory depth.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce – This little addition brings a wonderful umami note and helps deepen the glaze’s color.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.
- Toothpicks for serving – Essential for easy appetizer enjoyment!
- Mashed potatoes or rice for serving – Perfect for soaking up any extra glaze if serving as a meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
Making these delicious kielbasa bites is incredibly simple, and the results are always amazing. This slow cooker honey mustard recipe truly shines because it lets the slow cooker do most of the work, infusing the sausage with that irresistible sweet and tangy glaze. You’ll love how few steps it takes to create such a flavorful appetizer or meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined. The aroma of the honey and mustard together is already promising!
Step 2: Add Kielbasa to the Slow Cooker
Take your 1 lb kielbasa sausage and slice it into about 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place these tasty sausage slices directly into your slow cooker insert. I find that slicing it evenly helps it cook and absorb the glaze beautifully.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
Pour the prepared honey mustard glaze evenly over the kielbasa slices in the slow cooker. Gently stir everything together to ensure each piece of sausage is well-coated. Cover the slow cooker tightly and cook on the low setting for 4 hours. You’ll notice the glaze thickening and becoming wonderfully sticky.
Step 4: Final Stir and Serve
Before serving your slow cooker chicken honey mustard inspired bites, give them one last good stir to make sure the glaze is evenly distributed. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking, or pair with fluffy mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal. The savory kielbasa with the sweet glaze is pure comfort food.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
Want your slow cooker honey mustard to be absolutely perfect every time? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips will help ensure your kielbasa bites are always a hit, whether you’re serving them as a snack or part of a meal.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness.
- Always use good quality Dijon mustard; it makes a noticeable difference in the tanginess of the glaze.
- If you’re a fan of a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
- Taste and adjust the glaze before adding it to the slow cooker. You can add more honey for sweetness or more Dijon for tang.
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Honey Mustard?
The real secret to a perfect slow cooker honey mustard is allowing enough time for the flavors to meld. Cooking on low heat for at least 4 hours ensures the kielbasa becomes tender and absorbs that delicious glaze completely. Don’t rush the process!
Can I make Slow Cooker Honey Mustard ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the glaze and slice the kielbasa up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, simply combine everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. This makes it even easier for game day prep.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Honey Mustard?
A common mistake is overcooking, which can make the kielbasa dry. Stick to the 4-hour low setting. Another pitfall is not stirring before serving; this ensures every bite is coated in that glorious glaze. Also, make sure your kielbasa is fully submerged in the sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
These irresistible kielbasa bites are incredibly versatile! For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, simply serve them warm right out of the slow cooker with toothpicks for easy grabbing. I love to set out a bowl of these slow cooker honey mustard bites during game days or parties. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, they pair wonderfully as a main dish. Try serving them alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of steamed rice to soak up that amazing glaze. For a complete honey mustard pork slow cooker experience, consider adding a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
When enjoying these delightful slow cooker honey mustard kielbasa bites, it’s helpful to know the nutritional breakdown. This recipe offers a satisfying flavor profile with a good amount of protein, making it a popular choice for appetizers or a hearty meal component. Remember that these are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific brands of ingredients you use.
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
Leftovers of this fantastic slow cooker honey mustard are a gift that keeps on giving! Once the kielbasa bites have cooled down slightly, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with more deliciousness than you can eat in a week, don’t worry! You can freeze this slow cooker honey mustard sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating is just as simple as making them. For a quick reheat, you can place the leftovers back into your slow cooker on a low setting for about 30 minutes to an hour. This method keeps them wonderfully moist. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop in a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of water, broth, or even a bit more honey-mustard sauce if needed to maintain that luscious glaze. This ensures you can enjoy your delicious crock pot honey mustard pork anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Honey Mustard
What is the best type of kielbasa to use for slow cooker honey mustard?
For this slow cooker honey mustard recipe, any good quality kielbasa works beautifully. I personally prefer a smoked kielbasa as it adds an extra layer of savory flavor that complements the sweet and tangy glaze perfectly. You can also use turkey kielbasa or even a plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a different dietary option.
Can I make this a spicy slow cooker honey mustard?
Absolutely! If you like a little heat, you can easily transform this into a spicy version. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture along with the black pepper. For a more pronounced heat, you could also add a bit of sriracha or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. This is a great way to customize your slow cooker chicken honey mustard inspired dish.
What can I serve with slow cooker honey mustard pork chops?
While this recipe uses kielbasa, the glaze is versatile! If you’re making slow cooker honey mustard pork chops, they pair wonderfully with classic sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a fantastic choice to soak up the delicious glaze. Steamed rice, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad also make excellent accompaniments. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some baked beans.
How do I ensure the glaze is thick enough?
The brown sugar and honey naturally help thicken the glaze as it cooks, especially when cooked on low for 4 hours. If you find your glaze is still a bit too thin after cooking, you can carefully remove the kielbasa, turn the slow cooker to high, and let the sauce reduce uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. This ensures you get that perfect sticky slow cooker honey mustard glaze.
Variations of Slow Cooker Honey Mustard You Can Try
This versatile slow cooker honey mustard recipe is a fantastic base for exploring different flavors and dietary needs. I love how adaptable it is! Whether you want to switch up the main protein or add a new flavor dimension, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, simply add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha to the glaze mixture. This transforms it into a zesty slow cooker savory honey mustard.
- Dietary Swaps: Easily make this vegetarian or vegan by substituting the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or firm tofu. Ensure your honey is vegan if needed, or use maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Different Proteins: While kielbasa is amazing, this glaze is also perfect for slow cooker chicken thighs or pork chops. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts of meat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Stir in some fresh chopped rosemary or thyme during the last hour of cooking for an aromatic, herbaceous dimension that complements the sweet and tangy glaze beautifully.
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard: Amazing 4-Hour Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Kielbasa Bites are an effortless and delicious snack perfect for game days or casual gatherings. The kielbasa is slow-cooked in a sticky, savory glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Kielbasa Sausage
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon Mustard
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- Toothpicks for serving
- Mashed Potatoes or Rice for serving
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper until smooth.
- Place sliced kielbasa in your slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce over the kielbasa and gently mix to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Stir again before serving to redistribute the glaze.
- Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a meal with mashed potatoes or rice.
Notes
- Garnish with chopped parsley for added color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on low heat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid to maintain moisture.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure all sauces and kielbasa are gluten-free.
- To adjust sweetness, reduce honey and brown sugar, and consider adding vinegar for balance.
- Substitute kielbasa with turkey or plant-based sausage for different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg