If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and utterly satisfying meal that practically makes itself, you are going to love this Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe. Imagine tender diced hashbrowns mingling with smoky kielbasa, all wrapped in a luscious blanket of creamy cheddar cheese and sour cream. This dish is the perfect cozy dinner, combining simple ingredients with a slow cooker magic that brings out deep flavors and a rich, cheesy texture you’ll want to savor again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the ultimate blend of flavors and textures. From the smoky kielbasa to the creamy soup base, every component adds heartiness and depth to this easy slow-cooker favorite.
- Kielbasa sausage (1 14 oz package): Adds smoky, savory richness and a meaty bite that perfectly complements the potatoes.
- Frozen diced hashbrown potatoes (32 oz): These provide a tender, slightly crispy texture when cooked slowly, forming the comforting potato foundation.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): For melty, cheesy goodness that binds the dish together with its sharp, savory flavor.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (1 10.5 oz can): Creates a creamy, velvety sauce that infuses moisture and warmth throughout the dish.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds luxurious creaminess and a bit of tang that balances the richness perfectly.
- Chopped yellow onion (1/2 cup): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth, enhancing overall flavor complexity.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a gentle hint of garlic aroma without overpowering the palate.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of spice to lift the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): Perfect for a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green color when garnishing.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker
Start by lightly coating the inside of your crockpot with non-stick spray. This simple step prevents any cheesy, creamy goodness from sticking to the sides, making cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the frozen diced hashbrown potatoes, sliced kielbasa sausage, chopped yellow onion, shredded cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything until it’s evenly distributed, ensuring each bite will be packed with flavor and creaminess.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot
Pour the mixed ingredients into your prepared crockpot and spread the mixture out evenly. This helps the dish cook uniformly, so every spoonful gets that perfect balance of cheesy potatoes and savory kielbasa.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crockpot and set it on low for four hours. Patience is key here: cooking slowly allows the potatoes to become tender and soak up all the delicious creamy juices, while the cheese melts beautifully into the mixture.
Step 5: Final Stir and Garnish
Once the time is up and the dish is hot and bubbly, give it a good stir to blend everything together once more. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top to add a burst of color and a subtle fresh note that brightens the dish.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a lovely garnish that adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal aroma. For an extra indulgence, a little shredded cheddar on top melted under a broiler for a minute or two can create a crispy cheese crust that everyone will love.
Side Dishes
This hearty Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe deserves simple, light sides to balance the richness. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans to add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets—perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. You can also top portions with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions to personalize each plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will meld even more overnight, creating an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, freeze the cooled dish in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Make sure to label them with the date so you can enjoy your slow-cooker delight well into the future.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally to keep the cheese from clumping and ensure an even temperature.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you use fresh potatoes, dice them into small cubes and consider parboiling slightly first to ensure they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile. For a homemade option, mix heavy cream with chicken broth and a bit of flour to thicken.
Can this recipe be made on high in less time?
While you can cook it on high, it usually takes about two hours and the texture might not be as creamy or tender as the low and slow method.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the kielbasa with your favorite plant-based sausage or smoked tempeh. Use vegetable broth and cream of mushroom soup to keep it fully vegetarian.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the crockpot?
Using a light coat of non-stick spray before cooking and stirring once or twice during the cooking process can help prevent sticking without compromising texture.
Final Thoughts
There is just something so satisfying about a dish that fills your home with tantalizing aromas and pleases your taste buds with every bite. The Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe is one of those unforgettable meals—delicious, easy, and deeply comforting. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your go-to slow cooker recipe for weeknights or casual gatherings with loved ones. You’re going to fall in love with this cheesy, meaty, potato-packed dream!
Print
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa recipe is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for busy days. Combining tender diced hashbrowns, flavorful kielbasa sausage, creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of garlic and onion, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot, this meal offers convenience without sacrificing rich taste. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, it serves 6 and requires minimal prep.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 (14 oz) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Potatoes
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hashbrown potatoes
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Pantry
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the frozen diced hashbrown potatoes, sliced kielbasa sausage, chopped yellow onion, shredded cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper until all components are evenly combined.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared slow cooker ensuring it’s well distributed for consistent cooking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on the low heat setting for 4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the mixture is hot and bubbly, indicating everything is fully cooked and flavors melded.
- Serve and Garnish: Stir the cheesy kielbasa potato mixture well before serving to distribute ingredients evenly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh herbaceous finish.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the kielbasa and using a vegetarian cream soup.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the microwave or oven.
- Adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms can increase vegetable content and add texture.
