Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Potatoes (Creamy, Cheesy & Easy!)

This Kielbasa and Potatoes in Crockpot recipe is the ultimate comfort dish — creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavor. Just 10 minutes of prep!

When the weather turns chilly or life gets a little too hectic, this Kielbasa and Potatoes in Crockpot recipe is my go-to hug in a bowl. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so easy to throw together — just slice, stir, and let the slow cooker do its thing. Whether it’s a rainy Tuesday or a lazy Sunday, this dish has a way of warming both bellies and hearts. With just ten minutes of prep and a few pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ve got yourself the kind of meal everyone looks forward to — even picky eaters.

I first made this during one of those weeks when everything felt a little off — the laundry was never-ending, homework help felt like tutoring a small law school, and our fridge was dangerously close to empty. But we had kielbasa, canned potatoes, and a half-used can of cheddar soup, and somehow, magic happened in that slow cooker. Now it’s a regular in our rotation.

Let’s talk about why this crockpot comfort food deserves a spot on your table too.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Kielbasa and Potatoes Recipe

This slow cooker kielbasa meal checks all the boxes for a busy home cook. It’s quick to prep, crowd-pleasing, and somehow manages to feel cozy without being fussy. Here’s why you’ll want to bookmark it:

• Hearty and Filling – Packed with cheesy kielbasa potatoes and rich creamy broth, it’s the kind of dinner that sticks to your ribs (in the best way).
• Set It and Forget It – A true dump-and-go recipe for those days when you’re juggling a hundred other things.
• Family Favorite – My kids call it “cheesy sausage stew,” and it’s one of the few dinners that gets no complaints — just clean plates.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and stretches easily with frozen veggies or extra broth.
• Leftovers Reheat Beautifully – It thickens up like a cheesy casserole by day two. Perfect for lunches or wraps.

I often serve it on the same kind of night I’d reach for cozy dinners like this one, like our crockpot kielbasa pasta. It’s comfort food without the chaos.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cheesy kielbasa potatoes recipe sing in the slow cooker. You probably have most of it on hand already, which is why I love this dish for those “what’s for dinner?” nights.

• 12 oz beef kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch bite-size rounds
→ I go for a classic beef kielbasa — smoky and hearty. You don’t need to brown it first, but sometimes I’ll pan-fry it for a little crisp edge if I have a minute. Totally up to you!

• 3 cans (14.5 oz each) diced potatoes, drained
→ I highly recommend the Del Monte Fresh Cut diced potatoes. They hold their shape and have that homemade texture. If you’re watching your budget, you can use whole canned potatoes and dice them yourself — it saves a dollar or two.

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
→ This makes everything rich and creamy. Don’t substitute with milk unless you’re okay with a thinner sauce.

• ½ can cheddar cheese soup
→ Just a half can adds that melty, cheesy depth. I used to skip this step, but once I added it… game-changer. Trust me.

• 1 cup chicken broth
→ Helps thin out the cream base a bit and adds extra savory flavor.

• 2 tbsp melted butter (salted or unsalted)
→ Adds richness and helps bring everything together.
Eva’s Note: Don’t skip the butter—it makes this kielbasa potato dinner feel extra cozy and homemade.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Colby Jack)
→ I often use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, but Colby Jack melts like a dream. Use whatever’s already in your fridge!

• ½ cup chopped onions (sweet, white, or red)
→ I love sweet onions for this dish. They mellow out during the long cook and add a gentle flavor that plays perfectly with the sausage.

• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

These pantry seasonings bring balance to the creamy base and smoky sausage. You can adjust to taste — sometimes I throw in a pinch of paprika if I want a little kick.

How to Make Kielbasa and Potatoes in the Crockpot

Step-by-Step Instructions

This is one of those recipes that practically cooks itself. Just layer, stir gently, and walk away. Dinner will be warm and ready when you are.

1. Prep your slow cooker.
   Give the insert a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray or rub with a little butter. This helps with cleanup later — especially once the cheese gets melty.
2. Layer the ingredients.
   Add the following to the slow cooker in this order:
   • Drained canned potatoes
   • Sliced kielbasa
   • Chopped onions
   • Black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder

Eva’s Note: I like to do this layering instead of mixing right away. It helps the potatoes stay intact and gives the kielbasa a little head start to release its flavor into the broth.

3. Stir together the liquids.
   In a separate bowl (or large measuring cup), whisk together:
   • Chicken broth
   • Heavy cream
   • Cheddar cheese soup (just half the can)
   • Melted butter

Pour this creamy mixture evenly over everything in the crockpot.

4. Cook low and slow.
   Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
   About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Let it melt slowly into the dish.

Don’t Over-Stir It
Once the cream and cheese go in, stir gently — just enough to blend. Too much mixing breaks the potatoes and turns it into mush. I learned that the hard way on my first batch!

5. Let it sit before serving.
   After it’s cooked, turn off the heat and let the crockpot sit for 10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. It thickens up beautifully, almost stew-like. My husband always sneaks a bite too early and burns his tongue — every time.

At the 3-hour mark…
Your kitchen will smell like buttery onions, smoky sausage, and creamy goodness. It’s that moment where you think, “Okay, I might need a spoonful before dinner.”

This creamy sausage and potatoes dish is the kind of meal that feels special even on an ordinary Tuesday — and no one will guess how little effort it took.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ins

This kielbasa potato dinner is super flexible. Whether you’re working with what’s in the pantry or looking to jazz it up a little, there are plenty of ways to make it work for your taste (or picky eaters).

Here are some of my favorite variations:

• Swap the cheese – Try Colby Jack for a smoother melt or pepper jack if you like a little heat. I’ve even used a handful of shredded mozzarella in a pinch — not traditional, but still creamy and good.
• Add veggies – Toss in frozen peas or green beans during the last 30 minutes to bulk up the meal. I started doing this when we had surprise guests once, and it worked like a charm to stretch the leftovers.
• Spice it up – Sprinkle in smoked paprika, a dash of cayenne, or a little mustard powder for extra depth. That smoky paprika pairs beautifully with the kielbasa.
• Use fresh potatoes – If you don’t have canned, you can dice Yukon Golds or Russets (about 3–4 medium). Just add 30–45 minutes to the cook time and keep an eye on texture.
• Make it lighter – Swap the cream for evaporated milk and use reduced-fat cheese. It’ll be less rich, but still totally satisfying.
• Stretch with pasta or rice – I’ve spooned leftovers over noodles before, or even served them with white rice. It’s a great way to feed a few extra mouths.

This recipe really is like a blank canvas — full of creamy sausage and potatoes flavor, but open to all kinds of creative upgrades.

What to Serve with Kielbasa and Potatoes

This dish is rich and hearty all on its own, but a simple side or two can turn it into a full comfort meal. Here are our go-to pairings from around the dinner table:

• Buttered corn or green beans – Quick, kid-friendly, and just enough freshness to balance the creamy sausage and potatoes.
• Crusty bread or garlic toast – My oldest, Lily, always uses her roll to scoop up the last bit of sauce. No drop left behind!
• Garden salad with vinaigrette – Something light and tangy is perfect here. Even just romaine, cherry tomatoes, and bottled dressing works great.
• Mashed cauliflower or steamed broccoli – When I want a lighter feel, I spoon this dish over mashed cauliflower. It soaks up the sauce like a dream.
• Applesauce or baked cinnamon apples – There’s something nostalgic about sausage and apples together — sweet and savory at its best.
• A dreamy dessert like this: Butterscotch Lush Cake
We love ending this cozy dinner with a soft, cool dessert. It’s creamy on creamy, but somehow it works.

Eva’s Note: On a busy weeknight, I usually stick with frozen veggies and toast. But on a Sunday? You better believe we’re pulling out the cornbread and salad tongs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This kielbasa and potatoes in crockpot recipe is just as comforting on day two. Here’s how to store it right — and a few ideas to make those leftovers feel brand new.

• Store in the fridge – Let the dish cool completely, then spoon into airtight containers. It’ll keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Reheat gently – Warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. For bigger batches, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• It thickens overnight – The cream and cheese continue to settle, so by the next day it’s thicker — almost like a cheesy casserole. Perfect for spooning into wraps or over toast.
• Freezer-friendly tip – Cool completely and transfer to flat freezer bags. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. It defrosts quickly in the fridge or even under warm water in a pinch.
Eva’s Note: I always stash one bag in the freezer for those “ugh, what’s for dinner?” nights. It’s a lifesaver after soccer practice.
• Repurpose it – Try it:
– Over baked potatoes
– Inside a tortilla with shredded lettuce
– On top of white rice with a splash of hot sauce

You’ll be surprised how versatile this creamy sausage and potatoes combo really is!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kielbasa and Potatoes in Crockpot

Q: Can I use raw potatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Use about 3–4 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes. Just make sure to increase your cook time by 30–45 minutes, depending on your slow cooker.
Personal Note: I used to peel potatoes with my kids at the kitchen counter — Lily would sort the “pretty cubes,” and Noah would sneak off with a raw piece (ew!). My grandma used to say soaking diced potatoes in cold water before cooking helps them stay firm. She was right.

Q: Do I need to brown the kielbasa first?
Nope, not required — but it does add flavor. If you have an extra 5 minutes, a quick sauté in a skillet makes the sausage a little crispy and gives the whole dish a more savory, Sunday-dinner kind of feel.
Eva’s Tip: Browning kielbasa in the pan makes the kitchen smell like Sunday brunch. Honestly, sometimes I do it just for the aroma.

Q: How do I keep the potatoes from turning mushy?
A few tricks:
• Use firm canned potatoes (like Del Monte — they hold up best)
• Avoid over-stirring once the cream goes in
• Don’t cook too long — 5 to 6 hours on low is ideal
Lesson Learned: The first time I made this, I stirred like crazy and ended up with cheesy mashed potatoes. Still tasty… just not the goal!

Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This dish is great for potlucks, gatherings, or hungry teens. Use a 6–8 qt slow cooker, and plan to add about 1 hour to the cook time if doubling. Just make sure you don’t overfill the crock — leave at least an inch of space at the top.
Eva’s Story: I made a double batch for Noah’s class potluck once. There wasn’t a single spoonful left — and three moms asked for the recipe before we even packed up.

More Cozy Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love

If you loved this creamy kielbasa and potatoes in crockpot recipe, here are a few more cozy meals to tuck into your weekly plan:

• Crockpot Kielbasa Pasta
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with kielbasa and tender noodles — perfect for when you’re craving comfort food in a bowl.

• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake
Hearty, rich, and topped with gooey cheese. This one feels like a diner-style dinner but with slow-cooked ease.

• Slow Cooker Cheesy Mozzarella Chicken Recipe
Melty, bubbly chicken smothered in sauce and cheese — a favorite for busy weeknights when everyone needs a little something extra.

These dishes are all about real food, real flavor, and real comfort — just like this kielbasa potato dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping lunches, or just trying to make Tuesday feel a little special, you’ve got options.

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