Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes And Kielbasa Recipe

Savory Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes And Kielbasa Recipe Magic

Comfort food reaches new heights with these crockpot cheesy potatoes and kielbasa that promise a hearty, mouthwatering meal.

Creamy potatoes and smoky kielbasa blend together in a delightful slow-cooker dance of flavors.

The rich, melted cheese creates a blanket of deliciousness over tender potato chunks and savory sausage pieces.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures that’ll make dinner feel like a warm embrace.

The easy one-pot method means minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to savor every single spoonful of this irresistible comfort classic.

Why You’ll Love Kielbasa and Potatoes

Why You’ll Love Kielbasa and Potatoes
  • Blend of kielbasa, potatoes, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals, this recipe satisfies both picky eaters and food enthusiasts with its rich, comforting flavors.
  • Uses affordable ingredients like canned potatoes and kielbasa, making it an economical option that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

What’s in Cheesy Potatoes with Kielbasa

Core Ingredients:
  • Canned Diced Potatoes: Tender potato cubes that will absorb the creamy flavors of the dish.
  • Kielbasa: Flavorful sausage that adds a smoky and savory element to the recipe.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, melty cheese flavor to the potatoes and kielbasa.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Cheddar Cream Soup: Creates a luxurious and creamy base that helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps coat the potatoes with flavor.
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Pepper: Provides a well-rounded seasoning that complements the kielbasa and potatoes.
  • Chopped Onions: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the overall dish.
  • Chicken Broth: Helps create moisture and enhances the overall savory profile.
Optional Thickening Agent:
  • Cornstarch: Can be used to create a thicker consistency if desired.

Cooking Cheesy Kielbasa in the Crockpot

Cooking Cheesy Kielbasa in the Crockpot

Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker

Grab your crockpot and spray the interior with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup after your delicious meal is finished.

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes

Drain the canned diced potatoes completely using a strainer, removing any excess liquid from the can.

Step 3: Season Potato Mixture

Combine potatoes with:
  • Melted butter
  • Onion powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Black pepper

Thoroughly mix to ensure every potato cube is evenly coated with seasoning.

Step 4: Add Protein And Aromatics

Gently mix in:
  • Sliced kielbasa
  • Chopped onions

These ingredients will create a rich, savory base for your dish.

Step 5: Create Creamy Sauce

Pour into the crockpot:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Cheddar cream soup

Stir all ingredients until well combined, creating a luxurious sauce that will envelop the potatoes and kielbasa.

Step 6: Slow Cook To Perfection

Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours.

Potatoes should become fork-tender and the mixture creamy.

For a thicker consistency, add a cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking.

Step 7: Serve And Garnish

Scoop the creamy mixture into serving bowls.

Top with additional cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and texture.

Tips for Cheesy Potato Perfection

Tips for Cheesy Potato Perfection
  • Pat diced potatoes completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum butter and spice coating, preventing soggy texture.
  • Sauté onions briefly before adding to crockpot to develop deeper, richer caramelized undertones that enhance overall dish complexity.
  • Monitor liquid levels during cooking, adding small amounts of chicken broth if mixture appears too thick, maintaining perfect creamy texture.
  • Sprinkle additional cheese during final hour of cooking for extra gooey, stringy cheese pulls that make the dish irresistibly indulgent.
  • Swap kielbasa with ham, bacon, or smoked sausage to create varied flavor profiles while maintaining the recipe's core comfort food essence.

Save and Reheat Potatoes with Kielbasa

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerated dishes stay fresh for 3-4 days when properly sealed. Keep temperature below 40°F to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer meal to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Removes excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze up to 2-3 months. Label container with date and contents.
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Return to crockpot, add 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth to restore moisture. Warm on low setting for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy consistency.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Pairings for Kielbasa and Potatoes

  • Elevate Flavor Fusion: Pair this hearty crockpot dish with crisp, refreshing accompaniments that balance its rich, creamy profile.
  • Complement with Crunch: Serve alongside a tangy apple-cabbage slaw that cuts through the dish's richness with bright, acidic notes and adds textural contrast.
  • Wine and Dine Perfectly: Select a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or a chilled German Riesling to match the smoky kielbasa and creamy potato base, enhancing the meal's complexity.
  • Green Balance Boost: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a fresh, peppery counterpoint that lightens the dish's heavy elements.

Flavor Twists for This Comfort Dish

  • Vegetarian Potato Casserole: Replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu, maintaining the creamy cheesy texture while offering a meat-free option.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Comfort: Swap diced potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content, perfect for keto and low-carb dieters while preserving the rich, cheesy flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Bowl: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free, ensuring those with celiac disease can enjoy this hearty meal without worry.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and select a non-dairy cream soup to create a lactose-free version that still delivers incredible taste and creamy consistency.

FAQs

  • What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?

Canned diced potatoes are perfect because they’re pre-cut and tender, saving you prep time. They absorb seasonings well and cook evenly in the crockpot.

  • Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?

Absolutely! Smoked sausage or andouille work great as substitutes. Just slice them similarly to the kielbasa and they’ll blend perfectly with the cheesy potato mixture.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This dish reheats wonderfully and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight, making it an excellent meal prep option.

  • How can I make this recipe slightly healthier?

Use low-fat cheese, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, and choose a reduced-sodium chicken broth. These small swaps can cut calories without sacrificing flavor.

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Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes And Kielbasa Recipe

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes And Kielbasa Recipe


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4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa dish, perfect for busy weeknights and hungry families. Rich cheese, tender potatoes, and smoky kielbasa combine into a satisfying one-pot meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) Kielbasa beef, sliced into bite-size pieces (about 1/2 inch thick)

Potato and Dairy Components:

  • 3 cans 14.5 ounces (411 grams) diced potatoes, drained
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 can cheddar cream soup
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) melted salted butter
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Aromatics:

  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker by generously spraying the interior with non-stick cooking spray to ensure effortless cleanup after cooking.
  2. Thoroughly drain canned diced potatoes in a colander, eliminating excess liquid while preserving the potato cubes.
  3. Combine potatoes with melted butter, creating a flavorful base by evenly coating each potato piece with onion powder, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Layer sliced kielbasa and chopped onions into the crockpot, distributing them evenly to ensure balanced flavor throughout the dish.
  5. Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the mixture, then gently fold in shredded cheddar cheese and cheddar cream soup to develop a rich, creamy consistency.
  6. Cover and cook on high temperature for 3-4 hours or low temperature for 5-6 hours, allowing potatoes to become tender and ingredients to meld together perfectly.
  7. For a thicker sauce, whisk together cornstarch and water, stirring into the mixture approximately one hour before cooking completion.
  8. Once cooking is finished, garnish with optional toppings like additional cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream before serving hot.

Notes

  • Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamier, more luxurious texture that holds its shape during slow cooking.
  • Toast the spices in melted butter before mixing with potatoes to intensify their flavor and create a more robust taste profile.
  • Swap regular kielbasa for turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat content, and use low-fat dairy alternatives for a lighter version.
  • To prevent potatoes from becoming mushy, drain them thoroughly and avoid stirring too frequently during cooking to maintain their structural integrity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (on high) or 6 hours (on low)
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 950 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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