This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is a cozy dish that combines tender kielbasa with creamy cheese and tasty veggies. It’s super easy—just pop everything into the pot and let it simmer!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is enough to make anyone hungry! I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. It’s a winner for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage adds a great flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey kielbasa works well too. You can also use any other smoked sausage you like, such as andouille or chorizo.
Potatoes: I usually use russet potatoes for their fluffy texture when cooked. However, you could substitute with Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different taste. Just note that cook times may vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor to this meal. If you want something creamier, try using mozzarella or a cheese blend. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option, but keep an eye on the melting quality.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This soup gives a creamy base. If you prefer, you can swap it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, milk, and flour for a healthier, fresher alternative.
Onion: I use a yellow onion for sweetness, but white or even red onions can be used. If you’re avoiding onion, shallots or leeks can also work nicely.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?
Cooking potatoes in a crockpot can sometimes leave them undercooked or mushy. To avoid this, ensure your potatoes are evenly diced to ensure uniform cooking. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cut potatoes into even 1-inch pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add them first to the crockpot, so they’re deep in the mixture and cook thoroughly.
- Check for doneness towards the end of your cooking time by poking them with a fork. They should be tender but not falling apart.
Cooking on low is usually best for achieving that perfect tender bite! Enjoy!
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 3-4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and can cook for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, just set it up in the morning, go about your day, and enjoy a warm, cheesy dinner when you’re ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Then, peel and dice the potatoes and onion. Finally, shred the cheddar cheese if you haven’t bought it pre-shredded. Easy peasy!
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, layer the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, and diced onion. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so every bite has some of that delicious flavor.
3. Mix the Soup Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined. This will create your tasty sauce!
4. Pour & Stir:
Now, pour the soup mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir to make sure everything is coated nicely with the soup mix.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are nice and tender. It’s all about letting those flavors meld together!
6. Add the Cheese:
About 10-15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the crockpot to let the cheese melt beautifully into the dish.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and everything is cooked to perfection, serve up your cheesy kielbasa meal! Sprinkle a little dried parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you’d like to switch things up, you can use other smoked sausages such as turkey sausage or bratwurst. Just keep in mind that different sausages may have varying flavors and cooking times, so adjust accordingly if needed!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make your own by mixing equal parts heavy cream and chicken broth with sautéed mushrooms for an easy homemade version. This will keep the creamy texture without losing too much flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in what you need or warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly in the crockpot!
