This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner is a simple and tasty meal. With juicy kielbasa, creamy cheese, and colorful veggies, it’s perfect for busy days!
Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and go about your day. I love how the cheesy goodness fills the house with a delightful smell. Comfort food at its best! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Kielbasa: This smoked sausage is the star of the dish. You can swap it for turkey kielbasa for a lighter option or any sausage you prefer, like chorizo for a bit of spice.
Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes because they’re tender and cook evenly. You can substitute with diced regular potatoes or sweet potatoes if you want a different flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar is perfect for its melting qualities. If you want something different, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. Vegan cheese works well too, for a dairy-free option!
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess and richness. If you’re out, you can replace it with sour cream or Greek yogurt, just add it toward the end to avoid curdling.
How Do You Get the Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
The key to that creamy, cheesy goodness in your crockpot is timing. Add the cheese mix about 15 minutes before serving to give it time to melt without getting rubbery.
- Combine cheddar, cream cheese, and milk in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour it over the cooked ingredients and stir gently. This way, every bite gets that cheesy flavor.
- Cover the crockpot and give it an additional 10-15 minutes on high heat; this ensures the cheese melts beautifully.
Using this method prevents the cheese from breaking down too much, giving you a luscious, gooey texture instead! Enjoy your cheesy creation!
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 3 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of preparation time. Once you have everything in the crockpot, let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
First, spray the inside of your crockpot with a non-stick cooking spray. This will make cleanup easier later!
2. Add the Potatoes:
Next, take your halved baby potatoes and layer them into the bottom of the crockpot. This will be the hearty base of your dish.
3. Layer the Veggies:
On top of the potatoes, add in the chopped onions, baby carrots, and minced garlic. These will add great flavor and nutrients to your meal!
4. Top with Kielbasa:
Now, take the sliced kielbasa and place it on top of the vegetables. This will infuse the dish with a savory taste as it cooks.
5. Season It Up:
Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over all the ingredients in the crockpot. This seasoning really brings out the flavors!
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes and carrots are tender!
7. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
About 15 minutes before serving, in a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and milk until it’s smooth and creamy.
8. Combine Cheese and Dinner:
Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked kielbasa and vegetables in the crockpot. Gently stir to combine everything well.
9. Final Cooking:
Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’ll smell amazing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm. This cheesy kielbasa dinner is perfect with a slice of bread or on its own!
Enjoy this easy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Cheesy Kielbasa Dinner
Can I Use Other Sausages Instead of Kielbasa?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can substitute kielbasa with turkey kielbasa for a lighter option, or use any sausage you like, such as smoked sausage or even chorizo for added spice and flavor.
How Do I Make This Dish Healthier?
To make this meal lighter, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reducing the amount of cheese slightly. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just layer them in the crockpot and cook as instructed when you’re ready to eat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creaminess.
