This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss in kielbasa, cheese, and veggies, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
I love how it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup! Plus, the cheesy goodness keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Who can say no to that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage gives a rich flavor. If you can’t find kielbasa, feel free to use any smoked sausage or turkey sausage as a lighter option. You could also try chicken sausage for a leaner dish.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes add heartiness. Russets or Yukon Golds work best for creaminess. If you’re looking to lower carbs, you can substitute with cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different taste.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but mixing in mozzarella can make it stretchier. You could also use a dairy-free cheese to make it vegan or gluten-free.
Cream of Potato Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a homemade version with mashed potatoes blended with cream and seasonings.
Broth: Chicken broth is my go-to, but vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option. Homemade broth always makes it taste fresher!
How Do I Ensure the Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender in the Crockpot?
The cooking time greatly affects how tender your potatoes will be. Stick to these tips for the best results:
- Cut your potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Layer the ingredients with the potatoes at the bottom since they need more time to cook.
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking; this lets heat escape, which can slow down the process.
- Check the doneness at the end of the cooking time by poking with a fork; they should be fork-tender.
How to Make a Delicious Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of potato soup
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to cook it in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, depending on your schedule. It’s a perfect hands-off dinner solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Start by slicing the kielbasa into rounds and dicing your potatoes. Then, take your crockpot and place the kielbasa, diced potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper inside. Use a spoon to mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
2. Add the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of potato soup and chicken broth until it’s smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the kielbasa and potatoes in the crockpot. This will create a delicious sauce that makes the meal extra tasty!
3. Cook Away!
Now cover the crockpot with its lid, setting it to cook. If you’re cooking on low, let it go for 6-8 hours. If you need it faster, turn the heat to high and cook for 3-4 hours. When the potatoes are tender, you’ll know it’s almost ready!
4. Finish with Cheese:
When your cooking time is up, it’s time to add the cheese! Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts and becomes gooey and delicious. Make sure it’s well mixed with the other ingredients.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is melted and combined, dish up your cheesy kielbasa meal while it’s hot. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy! You’ve created a warm, hearty meal that’s sure to please!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute kielbasa with other types of sausage such as smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even andouille for a spicier kick. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of sausage used.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Potato Soup?
No worries! If you don’t have cream of potato soup, you can use cream of mushroom or even cream of chicken soup as a substitute. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version by blending cooked potatoes with cream or milk, and adding a bit of chicken broth for consistency.
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of the Dish?
If you find the dish too thick after cooking, simply stir in a little more chicken or vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it up by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stirring that mixture into the pot and letting it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge before cooking. Just assemble the ingredients in the crockpot the night before, place it in the fridge, and then start cooking it in the morning. If you prefer, you can also freeze the assembled meal for up to 3 months! Just defrost and cook as normal when you’re ready to enjoy it.
