This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner is a comforting meal with tender sausage and melted cheese. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without a fuss. Trust me, the cheesy goodness is hard to resist—especially when the smells fill your kitchen. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: Smoked kielbasa gives the dish a lovely, rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey kielbasa works just as well, maintaining that great taste without so many calories.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a creamy blend. If you want to try something different, you can use pepper jack for a little heat or gouda for a unique smoky flavor.
Frozen Potatoes: Frozen diced potatoes are super convenient, but if you have fresh potatoes, feel free to peel and chop them! Just be aware they’ll need a bit longer to cook compared to frozen ones.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for a gluten-free version or consider making your own white sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in a Crockpot?
Layering ingredients correctly in your crockpot is key for even cooking and flavor mixing. Start with the potatoes as they take longer to cook. Then, layer the kielbasa next; its fat will help flavor the potatoes.
- After the kielbasa, add the vegetables like onion and bell pepper.
- Finally, pour the soup and milk mixture on top evenly without stirring initially. This helps keep the layers intact.
Stir gently toward the end when you add the cheese to combine everything without breaking down your potatoes too much.
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 cups frozen diced potatoes (or hash browns)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, set it in the morning and come back to have a cozy dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This helps keep your cheesy dish from sticking, making for easier cleanup later!
2. Layer the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, layer the frozen diced potatoes evenly across the bottom. This layer ensures they cook thoroughly and soak up the flavors.
3. Add the Kielbasa and Veggies:
Next, add the sliced kielbasa on top of the potatoes. Then, sprinkle the diced onion and green bell pepper over the kielbasa. This not only adds flavors but also lovely colors to your dish!
4. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This creamy concoction will tie everything together nicely.
5. Pour and Cover:
Pour the soup mixture evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot. Make sure to cover everything nicely to keep the flavors in!
6. Cook and Wait:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the potatoes to be tender and the flavors well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing!
7. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt. Who doesn’t love gooey, melted cheese?
8. Stir and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, give the dish a gentle stir to mix that cheesy goodness into the rest of the ingredients. It’s going to look so good!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If desired, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Now dig in and savor the cheesy, hearty goodness of your Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh potatoes! Just peel and chop them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook thoroughly. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes may take a bit longer to cook, so check for tenderness as you approach the end of the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk. Just remember to season it well to add flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and place them in the crockpot insert the night before. Just cover and refrigerate. In the morning, set the pot back into the base and cook as directed. It’s a real time-saver!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if you need to loosen the consistency.
