Easy Cheesy Potato & Kielbasa Crockpot Soup: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to chase away the chill or simply bring a sense of comfort to your day. This **Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Crockpot Soup** is the epitome of effortless comfort food, earning its title as the slow cooker’s liquid gold. Imagine a rich, golden cheesy base, generously loaded with tender potatoes and savory smoked kielbasa – all made incredibly easy thanks to the magic of your slow cooker. The best part? You don’t even have to worry about peeling or chopping potatoes, as this recipe cleverly utilizes frozen hash browns, making prep a breeze!
Alongside the convenient frozen hash browns, this delicious soup features aromatic diced onion and perfectly sliced smoked kielbasa, creating a flavor profile that is both simple and deeply satisfying. It’s a dish that promises to warm you from the inside out, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss.
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Picture this: your slow cooker gently simmers all day, filling your home with enticing aromas. By dinner time, a pot full of golden, creamy potato soup, studded with savory sausage, is ready to be devoured. This delectable **cheesy potato and kielbasa soup** will undoubtedly draw everyone to the table, and requests for second helpings are almost guaranteed. And it all begins with a quick mix of simple, readily available ingredients in the morning, requiring minimal effort on your part.
When this glorious **cheesy potato kielbasa soup** is ready for dinner, your evening self will undeniably thank your morning self for this thoughtful, effortless meal prep. It truly embodies the “set it and forget it” convenience that slow cookers are famous for!
Why Choose This Crockpot Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup?
- Effortless Preparation: With frozen hash browns, you skip the tedious potato prep. Just a little chopping for the onion and kielbasa, and you’re good to go.
- Hearty & Filling: Loaded with potatoes and sausage, this soup is substantial enough to be a complete meal on its own, perfect for cold weather or after a long day.
- Rich & Creamy Texture: The condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk create an incredibly smooth and luxurious base that coats every bite.
- Family-Friendly Flavors: The combination of cheesy potatoes and savory kielbasa is a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will adore.
- Set-and-Forget Convenience: Your slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours while you go about your day.
If you’re craving a similarly easy and comforting potato soup but need it in a hurry, consider my easy potato soup with hash browns on the stove top. Or, if you’re keen on exploring more slow cooker recipes featuring kielbasa, you might enjoy my slow cooker lentil soup with sausage.
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Video Guide: How to Make Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup
Essential Ingredients for Your Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Slow Cooker Soup
Crafting this delightful **cheesy potato kielbasa soup** requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Many of these are pantry staples, making this recipe not only delicious but also incredibly convenient to whip up at a moment’s notice.
- Frozen Hash Browns: This is our secret weapon for minimal prep! I highly recommend using frozen diced potatoes (like the Great Value southern style hash browns) as they maintain a delightful texture and resemble fresh potatoes in the finished soup. However, if you prefer a different consistency, frozen shredded potatoes can also be used. For those who prefer fresh, peeled and diced raw potatoes are an option, but you’ll need to increase the liquid by adding an extra cup of water or chicken broth to ensure they cook through properly.
- Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup: This ingredient is key to achieving that rich, creamy, and undeniably cheesy base that makes this **kielbasa potato soup** so comforting. While I’ve always used Campbell’s canned soup for its convenience and consistent results, adventurous cooks can certainly try a homemade alternative if they have the time.
- Onion: A staple aromatic in many recipes, onion adds depth and a subtle sweetness. I exclusively use yellow onions for cooking due to their balanced flavor. If you’re a fan of advanced meal prep, using a portion of frozen sautéed onion can save even more time – no need to thaw it first! You can learn more about quick ingredient prep for the freezer on our site.
- Beef Kielbasa: The star protein of our **crockpot kielbasa soup**. Smoked beef kielbasa brings a wonderfully savory, smoky flavor and a satisfying chewiness to the soup. You can often find beef, pork, or even turkey kielbasa, so choose your favorite. Pre-cooked varieties are best for this quick-prep recipe.
- Milk: This helps create the soup’s creamy consistency. I find whole milk provides ample richness without making the soup overly heavy. For an even more indulgent experience, feel free to substitute some or all of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. Start with a moderate amount and adjust at the end for perfect balance.
- Optional Garnishes (not pictured): For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, consider shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions. These not only make the soup look more appetizing but also add a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich base.
Please refer to the recipe card below for precise quantities and measurements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Crockpot Soup
This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimum effort, making it ideal for busy individuals and families. Follow these simple steps to create a truly comforting meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Kielbasa and Onion. Begin by slicing the kielbasa lengthwise, then crosswise into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly and are easy to eat in the soup. Next, dice your onion. (See image (1) for reference of prepped ingredients).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker. Place all of your ingredients – the frozen hash browns (partially thawed is ideal for quicker integration, but not strictly necessary), sliced kielbasa, diced onion, condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper – into your slow cooker. Pour the milk over the top of the ingredients. (See image (2) showing ingredients layered in the crockpot).
Step 3: Stir and Set. Stir all the ingredients gently until they are well-mixed and evenly distributed within the slow cooker. This ensures that the flavors will meld together beautifully as it cooks. (Refer to image (3) for a visual of the mixed ingredients). Cover your slow cooker with its lid (as shown in image (4)).
Step 4: Cook to Perfection. Set your slow cooker to the low setting and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. While it’s a “set it and forget it” recipe, stirring every couple of hours is recommended to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, especially if your crockpot tends to run hot.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve. Once the soup is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender, stir gently one last time. Ladle into bowls and, if desired, garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and freshly sliced green onions for a vibrant finish. This **cheesy potato kielbasa soup** is best served hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Optimizing Your Slow Cooker Experience for Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup
Mastering your slow cooker for recipes like this **cheesy potato kielbasa soup** often comes down to understanding your specific appliance. Unlike oven cooking, which typically adheres to precise temperature settings, slow cookers can vary significantly in their cooking times and heat distribution. Brand, size, and even how full your crockpot is will all influence the final result, so always keep this in mind when planning your meal.
For instance, a larger 6-quart crockpot will often cook the same recipe much faster than a smaller 4-quart or 3-quart model, even on the same setting. Furthermore, not all slow cookers heat exactly as advertised. Some run hotter, while others are truly “low and slow.” You can even use this method to test your crockpot’s temperature to better understand its unique characteristics.
The bottom line is that there’s no single, universally accurate cooking time for all slow cookers. It’s always best to check for doneness by testing the potatoes for tenderness. For this **crockpot cheesy potato soup**, aim for potatoes that are easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
I personally rely on a 6-quart crockpot. This size is incredibly versatile for most family meals and offers the essential features I need without overly complicated programming. I appreciate the clear options for cooking on high or low, and the automatic switch to a “keep warm” function once the cooking cycle is complete is a lifesaver for busy schedules.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup
This **hearty potato and kielbasa soup** is a meal in itself, but a few simple additions can elevate the experience:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a fresh loaf of sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy, cheesy broth.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, adding another layer of comforting texture.
- Extra Toppings: Beyond cheddar and green onions, consider crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a kick.
Variations & Customizations for Your Slow Cooker Potato Soup
One of the beauties of this **crockpot cheesy potato soup** is how easily it can be adapted to your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Add More Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by stirring in frozen corn, peas, or diced carrots during the last hour of cooking. Fresh spinach can be wilted in just before serving.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, try a blend of Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked Gouda for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper, or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce when serving.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried chives, parsley, or even a touch of thyme can add an extra layer of aroma and flavor.
- Healthier Options: Use turkey kielbasa and skim milk or a lower-fat condensed soup to reduce the calorie and fat content without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Swap Sausage: If kielbasa isn’t your favorite, cooked ground sausage (like breakfast sausage) or even pre-cooked chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Crockpot Soup
Storing Leftovers
Should you have any delicious leftovers of this **cheesy potato kielbasa soup**, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, the soup may thicken considerably. Simply add a splash of milk or even a little chicken broth and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing for Meal Prep
This **slow cooker potato soup** is an excellent candidate for freezer meal prep, allowing you to have a comforting meal ready to go on another busy day. To prepare for freezing:
- Chop the onion and slice the kielbasa sausage as directed in the recipe.
- Combine the prepped onion, kielbasa, frozen hash browns, condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, and salt and pepper in a freezer-safe container or a large freezer bag. Ensure all ingredients are well-mixed.
- Freeze for up to six months.
- Label your container or bag clearly with the recipe name and cooking instructions.
Crockpot Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup Date____________________
Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then cook in slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low. Serve garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onion if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Crockpot Soup
How do I keep the potato from getting mushy in my slow cooker potato soup?
To prevent your hash browns from turning mushy, there are a few key tips:
- Gentle Stirring: Stir the soup gently, especially towards the end of the cooking process, to avoid breaking down the tender potatoes.
- Add Later: If you consistently find your potatoes becoming too soft, try adding them during the last 2-3 hours of cooking. This can help them retain more texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking is the main culprit. Once the potatoes are tender, your soup is ready. Adjust cooking time based on your crockpot.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you opt for fresh, peeled and diced potatoes, I recommend using about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes (roughly equivalent to 32 oz frozen). You will also need to add an extra cup of water or chicken broth to the slow cooker to ensure the fresh potatoes have enough liquid to cook properly and prevent the soup from becoming too thick too soon.
What if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If your soup is too thick after cooking, gradually stir in more milk (or broth) until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can continue cooking it on low with the lid slightly ajar to allow some liquid to evaporate, or you can create a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the hot soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Full Recipe: Crockpot Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup
Crockpot Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Soup
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Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen diced potatoes/hash browns, partly thawed
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 10 ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 3 cups milk, plus extra for thinning
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Slice 1 pound kielbasa lengthwise, then crosswise into bite-sized pieces. Dice 1 onion.
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Combine 32 ounces frozen diced potatoes/hash browns (partly thawed is best), kielbasa, onion, 10 ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup, 3 cups milk, and salt and pepper to taste in a slow cooker and mix well. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until cooked through and potatoes are tender. Stir gently every couple of hours if possible.
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Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Nutrition data does not include additional salt and pepper added to taste, nor optional garnishes.
- If your crockpot cooks on the hotter side, the soup may thicken more rapidly. You may need to add additional milk (or broth) during the last few hours of cooking or just before serving to reach your preferred consistency.
- For a richer soup, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
Nutrition per serving
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