This Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal is all about comfort food! With tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and healthy veggies, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
And the best part? You just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you kick back. It’s perfect for busy days or lazy weekends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: The star ingredient! If you can’t find kielbasa, try any smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. I personally enjoy using spicy sausages for a kick!
Potatoes: Yukon Golds or Russets work best due to their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try sweet potatoes instead. They add a nice sweetness!
Onion: Regular yellow onions enhance the flavor, but you could use shallots or green onions if you prefer a milder taste or don’t have yellow onions on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. You can also use a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a lactose-free option!
How Do You Get Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
The sauce in this recipe is key to its creaminess! Start by whisking the cream of chicken soup and milk together smoothly. Make sure to mix in the garlic powder and paprika well for a flavor boost.
- Combine all liquid ingredients in a bowl, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Pour this mixture gently over the kielbasa and potatoes to coat everything evenly.
- Stir to combine, so every piece gets sauced up—this is where the magic happens!
Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook, depending on your preference. It’s perfect for a busy day since you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by slicing your kielbasa into rounds. In a crockpot, add the sliced kielbasa along with the diced potatoes and diced onions. Give it a little stir to mix them together. You’re off to a great start!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes the meal so tasty!
3. Mix it All Together:
Pour the soup mixture over the kielbasa and potato mixture in the crockpot. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated with that creamy goodness. Yum!
4. Cook in the Crockpot:
Cover the crockpot and cook the meal on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are nice and tender. Feel free to give it a little stir halfway through if you like!
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the meal. Cover the crockpot again to allow the cheese to melt into that delicious mixture.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and cheesy, it’s time to serve! Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your warm and comforting meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage works great as a substitute. You can also use smoked sausage or Andouille for a spicier kick. Just keep in mind that each variety may slightly alter the flavor of the dish, so choose according to your taste preferences!
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can easily make your own cream of chicken substitute by mixing 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and heating it until thickened. Alternatively, you could use cream of mushroom soup for a different twist or even a homemade white sauce for a healthier option.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Sure thing! You can prep all the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just keep the soup mixture separate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to make the meal, simply combine everything in the crockpot and adjust the cooking time as needed based on its chill from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if the dish seems a bit dry. You can also freeze leftovers, but be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change when thawed.
