Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa: A Comfort Food Delight
Imagine a chilly evening, the air crisp and brisk, and the comforting aroma of cheesy, savory goodness wafting through your home. There’s something magical about a meal simmering away in a crockpot, and when that meal is Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa, you know you’re in for a treat. Creamy layers of potatoes meld with smoky kielbasa, enveloping your senses in warmth and nostalgia. This dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner.
When to Make This Recipe
This recipe shines during cozy mornings when you need to get things going without sacrificing flavor. It is perfect for family gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme or for a busy weekday where a warm, hearty meal awaits you after a long day. Set it and forget it; you’ll come home to a warm, delicious meal that feels just like a hug from your grandma.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) / 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 406
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 701mg
(Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations.)
Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich aroma as it cooks, the creamy texture mingling with the delightful crunch of tender potatoes, and the savory flavor of kielbasa create a perfect combination that brings everyone to the table. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy cooks. Plus, it’s versatile — serve it as a side dish or make it the main attraction at your next gathering.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- In a crockpot, combine the diced potatoes, sliced kielbasa, chopped onion, and garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture over the potato and kielbasa mixture in the crockpot.
- Stir to combine everything well.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve
Enjoy this dish straight out of the crockpot. For added flavor, serve it plain or with a pat of butter. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread, and perhaps a warm cup of tea or coffee to complete the meal.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date the packaging!
Expert Tips
- If you want a hint of spice, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Avoid overmixing when combining ingredients in the crockpot to keep the potatoes intact for a better texture.
Delicious Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute the kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use a dairy-free cream soup and cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or make your own from scratch.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used; just make sure they are par-cooked as frozen raw potatoes can retain moisture and become mushy. -
How can I add more vegetables?
Adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green beans will add color and flavor to the dish. -
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or use a homemade cream sauce for a fresher taste.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm slice of home. Filled with rich flavor and comforting creaminess, this dish is sure to please any crowd. We invite you to bring this recipe into your kitchen and make it your own. Share your feedback or any variations with us — we love seeing how you make this dish unique! Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness that comes from this comforting crockpot creation!
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Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Carnivore
Description
A comforting crockpot dish combining creamy potatoes and smoky kielbasa for a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the diced potatoes, sliced kielbasa, chopped onion, and garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture over the potato and kielbasa mixture in the crockpot.
- Stir to combine everything well.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 406
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 701mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
