Description
Savory kielbasa bites simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with onions, peppers, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Toothpicks, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Kielbasa and Vegetables: Slice the kielbasa into 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add kielbasa and cook until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened (5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in diced tomatoes (undrained) and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth, then add brown sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Return Kielbasa: Return the browned kielbasa to the skillet.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Season to Taste: After simmering, taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve warm with toothpicks.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Different Sausage: Use andouille or chorizo.
- Add Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
- Sweet and Tangy: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before serving.
- Serve with Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes