This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is a cozy dish that’s super easy to make! With tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and delicious veggies, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how I can just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it cook while I manage other things. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s warm and cheesy? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This sausage adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey kielbasa works well. For a vegetarian or vegan touch, try using a plant-based sausage instead.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russets for their creamy texture. If you want to lower carbs, cauliflower florets can be a good substitute and will absorb flavors beautifully.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar is my favorite for its strong flavor, you could use Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Always try to pick a block of cheese over pre-shredded for better melting.
Diced Tomatoes: I prefer using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added depth. If fresh tomatoes are in season, about 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes would work too. For a milder dish, use low-sodium tomatoes.
Spices: The garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning are key for flavor. If you’re out of Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can work wonders.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Crockpot?
Getting the potatoes just right is essential for this dish. To ensure they cook evenly and become tender, cut them into uniform pieces. Larger chunks take longer to cook than smaller ones.
- Place your potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot; they’ll absorb moisture and cook faster.
- Layer your kielbasa and onions on top. This helps the flavors blend as everything cooks.
- Make sure not to skip the stirring step after adding the seasoning—it helps distribute the spices throughout.
- If you’re using a high setting, check your potatoes around 3 hours for doneness.
How to Make a Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks low and slow for 6-8 hours or quickly for 3-4 hours on high. Once it’s cooked and the cheese is melted, all that’s left is to enjoy a hot, comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by cutting your kielbasa into slices and dicing your potatoes and onions. In your crockpot, place the sliced kielbasa, diced potatoes, and diced onions. This will be the tasty base of your meal!
2. Add the Liquids:
Next, open the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it!) and pour it over the mixture in the crockpot. Then, add the chicken broth to keep everything nice and moist while cooking.
3. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the top of your mixture. Give it all a good stir to combine the ingredients. This will help those delicious flavors meld together as they cook.
4. Cook It Low or High:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and everything is heated through. Feel free to check in on it to smell the delicious aroma!
5. Add the Cheese:
Once your meal is cooked, it’s time for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the crockpot and gently stir it in until it melts and blends into the dish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Your cheesy kielbasa meal is ready to be served! Scoop it into bowls and sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Fresh Kielbasa Instead of Pre-Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh kielbasa, just make sure to slice and brown it in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This will enhance the flavor and ensure it’s cooked through by the time the potatoes are tender.
Can I Substitute Other Types of Cheese?
Yes, you can! Feel free to use pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just remember that each cheese will melt differently, so adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it seems dry upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore some moisture!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even carrots work great. Just chop them into small pieces and add them at the beginning with the other ingredients for best results.
