This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner is a winner! With tasty kielbasa, creamy cheese, and tender veggies, it’s comfort food made simple.
Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. I love how it turns out gooey and delicious—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoky sausage gives the dish its hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works great. You can also use vegetarian sausage for a meatless version.
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are convenient and cook evenly. If unavailable, you can use diced regular potatoes, but cut them into smaller pieces for similar cooking time.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella create a deliciously gooey effect. Feel free to swap them with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick!
Sour Cream or Cream Cheese: Either option adds creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Kielbasa?
For a flavorful dish, sautéing the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot can add a nice touch. Browning gives it a deeper, richer flavor and an appealing color. However, you can skip this step if you’re short on time and let the slow cooker work its magic!
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add sliced kielbasa. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add to the crockpot with the other ingredients.
Don’t forget to stir everything halfway through cooking! This helps mix the flavors well and avoids the sides cooking faster than the center. A little patience goes a long way with this comforting dish!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and then around 6-7 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in the crockpot. A great way to enjoy a warm and cheesy meal without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This will help make serving and cleanup easier!
2. Add the Veggies:
Place the halved baby potatoes and baby carrots at the bottom of the crockpot. These will act as a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Layer in the Sausage and Onion:
Now, add the sliced kielbasa over the vegetables, followed by the diced onion on top. The sausage will give everything a tasty kick!
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. These spices boost the dish’s flavor significantly.
5. Add the Liquid:
Pour the chicken broth evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot. This helps keep everything moist while cooking.
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender. You’ll love the aromas as it cooks!
7. Stir in the Creaminess:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the sour cream (or cream cheese) along with half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for that creamy touch.
8. Melty Cheese Time:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover once more, and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is when it gets extra delicious!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once ready, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you’d like a pop of color. Serve warm straight from the crockpot and enjoy your cheesy kielbasa dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can swap the baby potatoes and carrots for other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or green beans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly for different vegetable types, so adjust as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the creamy sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, placing them in the crockpot base in the fridge. In the morning, just place it on the slow cooker and set it to cook. Easy peasy!
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This dish is filling on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with a side salad, crusty bread, or even over rice for a heartier option. Enjoy!
