This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is a warm, comforting dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss in some tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and colorful veggies, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
I love how the cheese gets all melty and gooey! It’s perfect for busy days when I need a hearty meal without the fuss. Grab some bread for dipping—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop of that cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey kielbasa works great as a substitute, offering similar taste with less fat. You might also try a vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version!
Potatoes: I chose Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, but you can use red potatoes or russets if you prefer. Just remember that different potatoes cook at different speeds; russets might break down more than Yukon Gold.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for a little kick. For a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese can work, although the melt may vary.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you want to make this dish gluten-free or are avoiding processed foods, a homemade white sauce can be a great alternative. Just whisk together equal parts flour (or cornstarch) and butter, then add chicken broth to thicken.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika add flavor, but you can experiment with other spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs for a different twist. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste based on dietary needs!
How Do I Ensure the Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking potatoes in a crockpot requires a bit of attention to timing for the best texture. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cut your potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Start the crockpot on high if you’re short on time. Otherwise, low and slow is the way to go!
- Check for tenderness during the last hour of cooking. If they’re still firm, give them another 30 minutes. You want them soft but not mushy!
These simple tips will help you cook your potatoes perfectly every time, leading to a comforting meal.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you let the crockpot do the work for you! It will cook for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it up in the morning and have a warm, cheesy meal ready by dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing the kielbasa sausage and dicing the potatoes and onion. This will help everything cook evenly. Once that’s done, it’s time to combine the ingredients!
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, add the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, diced onion, garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients together evenly. This really helps to blend those delicious flavors right from the start!
3. Add the Soup and Broth:
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with the chicken broth until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot. This will create a rich, flavorful sauce as it cooks.
4. Cook Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want those potatoes to be nice and tender, which is when your dish will be ready!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before your meal is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the crockpot again to let the cheese melt into a gooey, delicious layer on top!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, give your cheesy kielbasa meal a gentle stir. Serve it hot, garnished with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your comforting and cheesy dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute kielbasa with other types of sausage like smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if the sausage needs different handling.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste. Alternatively, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes so they cook evenly. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose.
