This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner is a warm, comforting dish perfect for busy days. With tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and hearty veggies, it’s a true crowd-pleaser!
You’ll love how hassle-free it is! Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it cook, and you’ve got a filling meal ready. Perfect for a chill evening or when friends come over!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa Sausage: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find kielbasa, try using smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Both will give you a fantastic flavor.
Potatoes: I prefer using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. However, you can swap them with Yukon gold or red potatoes. They hold up well and provide a slightly different texture.
Cheese: Cheddar is a must for its flavor, but mixing in some pepper jack can add a nice kick. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese blends that melt well!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you don’t have this on hand, a homemade cream sauce or even a can of tomato soup can work as a substitute. Just adjust seasoning to taste.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can substitute. Just remember to adjust the quantity since chili powders can vary in heat level.
How Do I Get the Potatoes to Cook Perfectly?
Getting the potatoes to the right tenderness is key in this recipe. Here’s how to ensure they cook just right:
- Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes, so they cook uniformly.
- Adding them to the bottom of the crockpot helps them absorb flavors and soft cook from the heat below.
- Stirring occasionally, if possible, ensures even cooking but it’s not necessary.
- Always check at the minimum cook time—if they are still firm, give them more time to become tender!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dinner takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let your crockpot do the work for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, plus an extra 20-30 minutes for the cheese to melt. Perfect for a cozy meal without the hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This helps with clean-up later and prevents sticking.
2. Layer the Vegetables:
Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the bottom of the crockpot. These will cook down perfectly and add flavor to your dish!
3. Add the Kielbasa:
Now, place the sliced kielbasa sausage on top of the veggies. The kielbasa will infuse its delicious taste into everything as it cooks.
4. Mix the Cheesy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Pour this creamy sauce mixture evenly over the kielbasa and vegetables in the crockpot. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; it will all come together in the cooking process!
6. Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check for tenderness in the potatoes when the cooking time is near the end.
7. Add the Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of your mixture. Cover and let it cook on low until the cheese is melted and bubbly, roughly 20-30 minutes.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is nicely melted, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve this warm and enjoy your cozy, cheesy kielbasa dinner with family or friends!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you can’t find kielbasa, feel free to substitute with smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each will bring its unique flavor to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk to help revive the creaminess!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you use is labeled gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options, which will work perfectly for this dish.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans. Just keep an eye on your cooking time, as extra veggies might slightly change how long it takes for everything to soften.
