Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is the perfect dish for any gathering or family dinner. This hearty meal combines tender potatoes with savory kielbasa, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
• Step 2: Drain the Potatoes
• Step 3: Mix Base Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Kielbasa and Liquids
• Step 5: Incorporate Cheddar Cream Soup
• Step 6: Cook Your Dish
• Step 7: Thicken If Desired
• Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
• How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Serve with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Tasty Toppings
• Enjoy with Bread
• Add a Side Salad
• How to Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Reheating Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is the best type of kielbasa for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?
• Can I customize my Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?
• How long does it take to cook Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?
• Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of kielbasa and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
• Comforting Dish: Warm and cheesy, it brings a feeling of home-cooked goodness.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for creating that slow-cooked flavor without constant supervision.
• Strainer: Helps to effectively drain the canned potatoes, ensuring the right texture in your dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 12 oz Kielbasa (I used Beef Kielbasa, sliced into bite-size (about ½ inch thick))
• 3 cans 14.5 oz diced potatoes (Drained (I used Del Monte Fresh Cut Diced New potatoes))
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 can cheddar cream soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (I used salted butter, but unsalted will work perfectly)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Colby jack works too)
• ½ cup chopped onions (I used sweet onions, but you can use white onions or red onions)
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the slow cooker liner with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Drain the Potatoes

In a strainer, drain the cans of potatoes completely. This step ensures that excess moisture won’t water down your dish.

Step 3: Mix Base Ingredients

Add melted butter into the slow cooker. Pour in the drained potatoes along with pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well until all potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Kielbasa and Liquids

Add the sliced kielbasa, chopped onions, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, and shredded cheese to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheddar Cream Soup

Add half a can of cheddar cream soup into the mix. Stir until everything is well blended together.

Step 6: Cook Your Dish

Cover the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours until the potatoes are nice and soft.

Step 7: Thicken If Desired

If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a cornstarch slurry about an hour before it’s done (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, serve your delicious Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa warm with toppings of your choice! Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends.

How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is a delicious and filling dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives – Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Tasty Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Bacon Bits – Crispy bacon bits can offer a crunchy texture and smoky flavor.

Enjoy with Bread

• Crusty Bread – Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
• Garlic Bread – Garlic bread pairs perfectly, enhancing the savory elements of the dish.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A refreshing Caesar salad balances the richness of the potatoes and kielbasa.
• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can provide a light contrast.

How to Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

To ensure your Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa turn out perfect every time, consider these tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh ingredients enhance flavors significantly. Opt for high-quality kielbasa and cheeses.
• Adjust Cooking Time – Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model; check for doneness by testing potato softness.
• Mix Thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients are mixed well before cooking for even flavor distribution.
• Thicken as Desired – If you prefer a thicker consistency, use a cornstarch slurry an hour before cooking completes.
• Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra kick or flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Offers a healthy crunch, balancing the creamy potatoes.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies adds color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the main dish.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well, adding a delightful sweetness to each bite.
5. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans provide protein-rich satisfaction alongside your meal.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the non-stick spray: Not spraying the slow cooker liner can cause sticking and make cleanup difficult. Always use a non-stick spray before adding ingredients.
• Not draining the potatoes: Failing to drain the canned potatoes properly can lead to a watery dish. Make sure to drain them completely for better texture.
• Overcooking the dish: Cooking for too long can turn your potatoes mushy. Keep an eye on cooking times and check for doneness.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each brand of ingredients has different salt levels. Taste and adjust spices as needed for a balanced flavor.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect creaminess and flavor. Opt for good quality shredded cheddar or Colby jack for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

• Allow to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of kielbasa for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?

You can use any variety of kielbasa, but beef kielbasa works well due to its rich flavor. Feel free to try turkey or pork kielbasa if you prefer those options.

Can I customize my Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or substitute different cheeses based on your preference for added flavor.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa?

Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours, depending on your slow cooker settings and desired potato tenderness.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned?

Yes! If you choose fresh potatoes, peel and dice them into similar-sized pieces. Add them at the beginning of cooking since they will take longer to soften.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile recipe you’ll want to repeat!