This delicious and easy-to-make recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of sausage with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider and brown sugar. The slow-cooked sausage becomes tender and infused with the sweet sauce, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, party appetizer, or a comforting dish on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb apple smoked sausage (or any smoked sausage of your choice, such as kielbasa or turkey sausage), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup apple cider (or apple juice if you prefer a sweeter option)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed, for a nice deep sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but it adds a savory kick and balances the sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but it adds a cozy, warming note)
Directions:
- Prep the sausage: Start by cutting the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. Depending on the size of the sausage, you can either slice it into rounds or chop it into chunks. The smaller you cut the pieces, the better they will absorb the sauce as it cooks.
- Prepare the sauce: In your Crockpot (slow cooker), pour in 1 cup of apple cider (or juice). Add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar for a rich, molasses-like sweetness. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (if you’re using it) for a mild tangy flavor, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, fragrant undertone. Mix everything together until the sugar dissolves and the mustard and cinnamon are evenly distributed.
- Add the sausage: Toss the bite-sized sausage pieces into the Crockpot. Stir gently to coat the sausage evenly in the sauce, ensuring each piece gets a nice glaze.
- Cook: Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The sausages should be thoroughly heated and tender, and the sauce will thicken slightly. Stir once halfway through the cooking time if possible to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Serve: Once the sausages are fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, serve hot! This dish can be served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.
Benefits of this Recipe:
- Protein-Rich: The apple smoked sausage provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s a satisfying dish that keeps you full longer.
- Low Effort, High Reward: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using a Crockpot means you can prepare this dish in the morning, set it, and forget it—perfect for busy days or when you’re hosting guests and want something hands-off.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of apple cider, brown sugar, and smoked sausage creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Cinnamon adds a cozy depth, perfect for the colder months or whenever you’re craving comfort food.
- Customizable: This recipe is versatile! You can swap in turkey sausage for a leaner option, use apple juice for a sweeter taste, or add more spices like cloves, nutmeg, or even a dash of hot sauce for heat. It’s your dish to experiment with!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
- Absolutely! While the apple smoked sausage adds a distinctive flavor, you can use any type of smoked sausage you prefer. Kielbasa, Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even turkey sausage are all great alternatives. Just note that the flavor profile may vary slightly depending on the type of sausage.
2. Can I cook this recipe on the stove instead of in a Crockpot?
- Yes! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the sausages in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Start by browning the sausage pieces, then add the apple cider, brown sugar, mustard, and cinnamon. Let it simmer on low for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the sausages are fully cooked.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. After it’s cooked, let it cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
- Definitely! This recipe freezes well. Simply cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
- This sausage dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, you could serve it with roasted vegetables or even a warm bread for dipping in the sauce.
6. Is this recipe spicy?
- This recipe isn’t spicy, but the Dijon mustard adds a bit of tang. If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
7. Can I make this recipe in advance for a party or gathering?
- Yes! This dish works great as a party appetizer. You can keep it warm in the Crockpot on the « keep warm » setting, and serve it with toothpicks or small skewers for easy serving.
Final Tips:
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of brown sugar or skip it altogether. The apple cider still brings a subtle sweetness even without the sugar.
- Add veggies: You can add some sliced bell peppers, onions, or even apples to the Crockpot for extra flavor and texture.
This dish is incredibly easy to adjust and experiment with based on your preferences, and it’s a guaranteed hit at any table! Enjoy!