A cozy, no-fuss meal in one pot
This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa dish is simple, comforting, and great for busy days. It cooks slowly so flavors blend without much work. If you like easy slow-cooker meals, you might also check this related Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa recipe for another take.
Why this dish becomes a family favorite
The recipe pairs creamy potatoes with smoky kielbasa and melting cheddar. It needs little prep, feeds a group, and tastes like home. You get protein, starch, and cheese all in one crockpot. For a similar simple side idea, see this kielbasa and green beans recipe.
Step-by-step: Make Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Follow these steps and the slow cooker does the work.
What you’ll need
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions for garnish
Cooking directions
- In a slow cooker, layer the sliced potatoes, kielbasa, and chopped onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or 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 and enjoy!
How to serve Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Scoop portions onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions for color and a little fresh flavor. Serve straight from the crockpot for easy family meals or potlucks.
How to store Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Let leftovers cool to room temperature (no more than two hours). Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Use smoked kielbasa for more flavor; polish-style works well.
- If the mixture looks too thick while cooking, add a splash of milk or broth.
- For a creamier finish, stir gently after cooking to mix melted cheese into the sauce.
Easy variations you can try
- Add a cup of frozen peas or corn for color and veggies.
- Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
- Use pepper jack instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Toss in a handful of chopped bell pepper with the onions for extra texture.
Estimated nutrition (per serving, serves 6)
- Calories: ~420
- Fat: ~24 g
- Carbohydrates: ~32 g
- Protein: ~17 g
These are rough estimates and will vary by specific ingredients and portion size.
Family-friendly serving ideas
Serve this dish with a green salad or buttered rolls to round out the meal. For another hearty main to share on the table, consider pairing it with garlic parmesan crockpot chicken and potatoes for a bigger spread.
What to serve with it
- Simple green salad or coleslaw
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the sauce
Quick answers to common questions
Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: You can, but thaw or partially thaw them first. Fresh sliced potatoes give the best texture.
Q: Do I need to pre-cook the kielbasa?
A: No. Kielbasa is usually pre-cooked. Slicing and adding it raw to the crockpot is fine — it will heat through and add flavor.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Omit the kielbasa and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or smoked tofu. Use a vegetarian cream soup if needed.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough. Adjust cooking time if the crock is very full.
Conclusion
If you want more versions or ideas for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa, check these recipes for inspiration: Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa – Cooking in the Midwest, Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes with Kielbasa – Simply Happy Foodie, and Crockpot Kielbasa and Cheesy Potatoes – Cooking With Carlee.
Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and Kielbasa
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and sliced Slice evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced Use smoked kielbasa for more flavor; Polish-style works well.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For a spicy kick, consider using pepper jack cheese.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz) Can swap for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk Add a splash if the mixture looks too thick while cooking.
- 1 onion, chopped Can add chopped bell pepper for extra texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- optional green onions for garnish Garnish for color and fresh flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Layer the sliced potatoes, kielbasa, and chopped onion in a slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or 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.
