This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner is a cozy dish packed with flavors. With cheesy goodness and juicy kielbasa, it warms you right up!
I love how simple it is—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. Perfect for those busy days or when I need a little comfort food! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: Kielbasa is the star of this dish, bringing a savory flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute it with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Baby Potatoes: The little potatoes hold up well in the crockpot. If you’re out of baby potatoes, try using diced regular potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a strong flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese works too. Another great choice is pepper jack for some spice!
Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: These add a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free option, you can use cashew cream or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
How Do You Make Sure the Vegetables Are Tender?
Getting those veggies just right in the crockpot is key! Here’s how to ensure they turn out tender and tasty:
- Cut the potatoes and carrots into even sizes so they cook uniformly.
- Layer ingredients properly: place hardy veggies like potatoes on the bottom, and the kielbasa on top to avoid overcooking.
- Cooking on low for longer (6-7 hours) yields the best texture.
Make sure to check the doneness of the vegetables before serving. They should be fork-tender but not mushy!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Other:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep. Then, you’ll let the crockpot work its magic for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for letting the flavors meld while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
First, lightly grease the inside of your crockpot insert with olive oil or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup later on!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the baby potatoes, baby carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot. Spread them out evenly for nice cooking.
3. Add the Kielbasa:
Now, layer the sliced kielbasa on top of the vegetables. This will allow the flavors of the sausage to drip down and mix with the veggies.
4. Season Everything:
Sprinkle your smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over the top. This will add lots of lovely flavor.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook! If you’re cooking on low, it will need about 6-7 hours, or 3–4 hours on high. You want the vegetables to be tender but still hold their shape.
6. Whip Up the Cheesy Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, take a separate bowl and mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and milk together until smooth. This will create a rich and creamy sauce that you’ll love!
7. Combine Everything:
Pour the cheesy cream mixture over the kielbasa and vegetables in the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
8. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for an extra 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Stir Before Serving:
Once everything is done, gently stir the mixture to combine all those delicious flavors together before serving.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your cheesy kielbasa dinner with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Enjoy your comforting cheesy kielbasa crockpot dinner! It’s a fantastic dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in. 🥘🧀
FAQ: Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional, you can swap it for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a healthier or meat-free option.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in some bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to enhance the veggie mix. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking!
