This Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Crockpot Dinner is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and comforting potatoes, it’s perfect for busy days.
You just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do all the work! It’s so easy, I might just start calling it my “set it and forget it” meal. Who doesn’t love that? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage adds great flavor to the dish. You can use turkey kielbasa for a lighter option or even any smoked sausage you like. If you’re vegetarian, look for plant-based sausage alternatives that suit your taste.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are so convenient! However, if you can’t find baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes cut into chunks. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since larger pieces may take longer to cook.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar cheese is delicious, feel free to switch it up! You can use any cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mild cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind, the meltability can change slightly.
Milk or Heavy Cream: I prefer whole milk for creaminess, but you can also use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if you want a dairy-free option. Just check the flavor profile to ensure it complements the dish!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor with the Kielbasa?
To make sure your kielbasa shines in this dish, start by choosing a good-quality sausage. Since it cooks slowly in the crockpot, the flavors meld beautifully. To ensure the best results, here’s what to do:
- Slice the kielbasa into uniform pieces, so they cook evenly.
- Layer it on top of the potatoes and onions in the crockpot to allow fats to drip down, adding flavor to the potatoes.
- Season around the sausage with spices to infuse flavor throughout the dish.
Giving enough cooking time makes it tender and flavorful, so don’t rush it! You’ll love how the spices and cheese come together. Enjoy making your meal!
Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Crockpot Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, chopped
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Extra Flavor:
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For the Finishing Touch:
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together with about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. So, get it started in the morning, and by dinnertime, your home will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Begin by spraying or lightly greasing the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
Start by placing the halved baby potatoes and chopped onions on the bottom of the crockpot. This creates a nice base for your dish!
3. Add the Kielbasa:
Next, arrange the sliced kielbasa evenly over the potatoes and onions. This will ensure even cooking!
4. Season it Up:
Sprinkle the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over everything in the crockpot. This is where the flavor starts to build!
5. Add the Butter:
Dot the small pieces of butter over the top to enhance the creaminess of the dish.
6. Pour in the Dairy:
Carefully pour the milk or cream over all the ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
7. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender, and the kielbasa heated through.
8. Add Vegetables:
If you’re using frozen peas or green beans, stir them in about 15 minutes before the cooking time is finished. This will keep them vibrant and slightly crisp!
9. Melt the Cheese:
Once done cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt completely for about 10-15 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, serve warm, and enjoy your hearty, cheesy dinner!
This recipe really delivers a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Kielbasa Crockpot Dinner
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute kielbasa with turkey kielbasa for a lighter option, or opt for any smoked sausage you prefer. Vegetarian sausage alternatives also work well for a meat-free version!
What Can I Use Instead of Baby Potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes on hand, regular potatoes cut into chunks will work perfectly. Just be sure they’re cut to a similar size so they cook evenly!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently heat in the microwave or on the stove.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Conversely, if you want it milder, feel free to reduce the smoked paprika or skip it altogether!
These simple FAQs should help streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience with this delicious recipe! Enjoy your meal!
