This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is a warm and filling dish that combines juicy kielbasa with creamy cheese and hearty vegetables. It’s a meal that practically cooks itself!
I love how easy it is to just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. Nothing beats coming home to a tasty dinner! Perfect for busy days! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This flavorful sausage is a key player in the dish. If you can’t find kielbasa, turkey or chicken sausage works well as a lighter option. You can even use vegetarian sausage for a meatless alternative.
Potatoes: I used russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but feel free to swap them out for Yukon gold or red potatoes. Sweet potatoes can add a tasty twist too, bringing natural sweetness to the meal.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can use mild cheddar or even a cheese blend. Go for a lactose-free version if you have dairy sensitivities.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. You could substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a different cream soup like chicken or celery if you prefer. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat soup.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Crockpot?
Getting your potatoes just right in a crockpot is key for the texture of the dish. To prevent them from turning mushy, follow these steps:
- Cut your potatoes into evenly-sized cubes to promote even cooking.
- Layer them at the bottom of the crockpot, so they get cooked well by the heat.
- Keep the lid on during cooking; this maintains moisture and temperature, promoting tender potatoes.
Stir gently before adding cheese and ensure they’re fork-tender before serving for the best results!
Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and you can let it cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a convenient and hearty dish, perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by placing the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, chopped onion, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper into the crockpot. Give it a little stir to mix everything together nicely.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, take the cream of mushroom soup and mix it with the chicken (or vegetable) broth until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the tasty sauce that brings everything together!
3. Mix it All Together:
Now, pour the creamy mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot. Stir everything well so that all the flavors can blend together beautifully.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, you can choose the high setting and let it cook for 3-4 hours. If you have more time, the low setting for 6-8 hours works wonderfully, too. You’ll want the potatoes to be tender when it’s done!
5. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt into the dish and make it even creamier and cheesier. Yum!
6. Final Touch:
Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious, warm cheesy kielbasa meal and enjoy every bite! It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, turkey sausage works well, or you can go for a spicy sausage if you want an extra kick. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly based on the sausage you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version by mixing equal parts of sour cream and cream cheese with some broth. Add in a few herbs to give it flavor if desired!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or heat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in carrots, bell peppers, or even green beans for more flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking!
