Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This dish combines creamy potatoes with flavorful kielbasa, creating a hearty meal that is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe offers convenience and deliciousness in one pot. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it while enjoying your day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, spices, and kielbasa creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main dish or a delicious side; it pairs well with many other meals.
- Comforting Texture: Creamy potatoes combined with savory sausage make this dish feel like a warm hug on a plate.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields eight servings, making it great for parties or meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready ensures that you can enjoy making Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa without any hiccups.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Perfect for slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while keeping your kitchen cool.
- Strainer: Essential for draining excess moisture from canned potatoes, ensuring the right consistency.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients before transferring them to the slow cooker.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create this flavorful dish:
For the Kielbasa
- 12 oz Kielbasa (I used Beef Kielbasa, sliced into bite-size pieces)
For the Potatoes
- 3 cans 14.5 oz diced potatoes (Drained; I used Del Monte Fresh Cut Diced New potatoes)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 can cheddar cream soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
For Flavoring
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (I used salted butter)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Colby jack works too)
- ½ cup chopped onions (I used sweet onions)
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the slow cooker liner with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Drain the Potatoes
In a strainer, drain the cans of potatoes completely to remove excess liquid.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Add melted butter to the potatoes in a mixing bowl. Then pour in the spices and mix until coated evenly.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
Add the sliced kielbasa, chopped onions, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, and shredded cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Add Cheddar Cream Soup
Incorporate the cheddar cream soup into your mixture. Ensure everything is blended together nicely.
Step 6: Cook
Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours until the potatoes are soft.
Step 7: Thicken if Desired
If you prefer a thicker texture, add a cornstarch slurry one hour before finishing (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water).
Step 8: Serve
Once done, serve hot and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is a hearty dish that’s perfect for any gathering or family meal. Here are some creative and delectable serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives – Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Parsley Garnish – A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and makes the dish visually appealing.
Over Rice
- Steamed White Rice – Serve the cheesy mixture over fluffy white rice for a satisfying meal.
- Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice pairs well with the creamy potatoes and kielbasa.
As a Casserole
- Baked Topping – Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly for a crispy finish.
- Breadcrumbs – Add seasoned breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crunch.
With Salads
- Caesar Salad – The crispness of a Caesar salad balances nicely with the richness of the potatoes.
- Coleslaw – Serve alongside coleslaw for a refreshing contrast in flavors.
In Wraps
- Tortilla Wraps – Use tortillas to wrap the cheesy potatoes and kielbasa for a fun finger food option.
- Lettuce Wraps – For a low-carb alternative, use lettuce leaves to create healthy wraps.
How to Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Perfecting your Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa ensures it turns out delicious every time. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect dish.
- Choose Quality Ingredients – Using high-quality kielbasa and fresh potatoes will enhance the overall flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to add more spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick if you enjoy heat.
- Mix Well – Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Use Low Sodium Options – Opting for low-sodium broth can help control salt levels without compromising taste.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the dish to sit off heat for about 10 minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Green Beans Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans topped with almonds provide crunch and freshness.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce from the main dish.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of kielbasa beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Smoky roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and balance to the creamy potatoes.
- Side Salad – A simple green salad dressed lightly keeps things fresh and healthy.
- Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad offers another comforting option that kids love.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa, it’s easy to stumble. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of Kielbasa: Different types can affect flavor. Stick to beef or pork Kielbasa for the best results.
- Not draining the potatoes properly: Excess liquid can make your dish watery. Always drain canned potatoes thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Overcooking the dish: Cooking it too long can lead to mushy potatoes. Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if using the high setting.
- Skipping the spices: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t omit onion, garlic powder, or pepper; they elevate the dish immensely.
- Adding cheese too early: Cheese can become stringy if added at the beginning. Mix it in during the last hour of cooking for a creamier texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa that might help you.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned?
You can use fresh potatoes, but they will require longer cooking times. Cut them into small cubes for even cooking.
How can I customize my Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. You can also mix different cheeses for varied flavors!
What should I serve with Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese options for a delicious alternative.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it as per your taste preferences, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any gathering. This hearty dish features tender, creamy potatoes mixed with flavorful kielbasa, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights or family get-togethers, this one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a mouthwatering blend of flavors. With rich cheddar cheese and a medley of spices, every bite feels like a cozy hug on your plate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz Kielbasa (sliced)
- 3 cans (14.5 oz each) diced potatoes (drained)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 can cheddar cream soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped onions
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker liner with cooking spray.
- Drain canned potatoes using a strainer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained potatoes with melted butter and seasonings.
- Add sliced kielbasa, chopped onions, cream, chicken broth, and cheese; stir well.
- Incorporate cheddar cream soup until blended.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours until potatoes are soft.
- For a thicker texture, add a cornstarch slurry one hour before finishing (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water).
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
