This hearty Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is packed with flavor! With tender kielbasa, creamy cheese, and colorful veggies, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day.
You just throw everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work! I love coming home to an inviting aroma that says, “Dinner’s ready!” It’s super easy and oh-so-tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage is the star of the show! If you’re not a fan of kielbasa, try turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also use any smoked sausage you prefer; just watch for differences in cooking time.
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their creaminess. If you need a low-carb option, you could swap them with cauliflower florets, though they will cook faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds a nice creaminess to the dish. If you want a healthier choice, go for a low-fat version or make your own from scratch using broth and sautéed mushrooms for more control over ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold flavor, you can use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack or Colby. For a twist, try adding some pepper jack for a little kick.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Tender?
Getting perfectly tender potatoes is essential for this dish. Here are a few tips to help you with that:
- Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces. This helps them cook uniformly.
- If you have time, soak diced potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This removes excess starch and can help them cook better.
- For a quicker cooking time, you can pre-cook the potatoes briefly in boiling water for 5-7 minutes before adding to the crockpot.
Checking doneness is easy; just poke them with a fork! They should be soft but not mushy. Enjoy your comforting meal!
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is easy and perfect for busy days! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and then it will cook in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by slicing the kielbasa into rounds and dicing the potatoes and onion. This will make everything ready to go into your crockpot!
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, add the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, and diced onion. Make sure to spread them out evenly so they cook well.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until everything is combined smoothly. This will be the tasty sauce for your dish!
4. Pour and Cook:
Carefully pour the soup mixture over the potatoes and kielbasa in the crockpot, making sure everything is well coated. Then, cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re using low heat, let it cook for 6-7 hours. For high heat, cook for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add the Cheese:
About 10-15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt and mix in to create a rich, cheesy flavor throughout!
6. Final Touches and Serve:
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. When you’re satisfied, serve it warm, and if you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your hearty kielbasa meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage Instead of Kielbasa?
Absolutely! You can use other types of smoked sausage, such as turkey sausage or andouille for a bit of heat. Just make sure to slice it similarly and adjust the cooking time if your chosen sausage has different cooking requirements.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you want a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use homemade cream soup, or opt for a different condensed soup like cream of chicken or cream of celery. You can also make a simple mixture of milk, flour, and seasonings if you prefer to make it from scratch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meal in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for added flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as firmer vegetables might need a bit longer to cook through.
