Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This crock pot recipe for kielbasa and potatoes is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that requires minimal effort, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. This recipe offers a simple, yet incredibly tasty, take on a classic comfort food, making it a go-to for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
Step 2: Layer the Crock Pot
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Arrange the sliced kielbasa sausage evenly over the vegetables. Next, add the cubed potatoes, spreading them out amongst the sausage and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth over the potatoes and sausage. Sprinkle the oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over everything. Give it a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Consider adding a bay leaf to the slow cooker during cooking. Remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Check for doneness around the 6-hour mark if cooking on low.
- Use bone-in kielbasa: For an even richer flavor, try using bone-in kielbasa.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Use different sausage: Andouille sausage or Italian sausage would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate is approximately 350-400 calories, with moderate amounts of protein and carbohydrates. This dish is a good source of potassium from the potatoes. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. This is a satisfying and filling meal that doesn't require extensive preparation.
This easy crock pot recipe for kielbasa and potatoes is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The combination of savory kielbasa and tender potatoes creates a comforting and delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!