Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy, hands-off cooking in the crockpot
• Hearty and filling with protein, veggies, and potatoes
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Minimal ingredients needed
• Perfect for potlucks or casual gatherings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed (or 2 cans green beans, drained)
• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved (or red potatoes, diced)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Slice the kielbasa, trim the green beans, and halve the baby potatoes.
2. Add to Crockpot:
   • In the crockpot, add sliced kielbasa, green beans, potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic.
3. Season and Stir:
   • Drizzle with olive oil and pour in the chicken broth.
   • Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the top.
   • Stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked through.
5. Serve:
   • Stir well before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired.
   • Serve hot as a main dish or a hearty side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use spicy kielbasa or add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Cheesy Kielbasa and Green Beans: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
• Bacon Addition: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
• Cajun Twist: Substitute Italian seasoning with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
• Vegetable Medley: Add carrots, corn, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, use two 15-ounce cans of drained green beans. Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. No need to thaw; just add them directly to the crockpot.

3. What kind of potatoes work best in this recipe?

Baby potatoes, red potatoes, or Yukon Gold potatoes hold up well in the slow cooker.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

5. How do I make the dish more flavorful?

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra depth of flavor.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, if your crockpot is large enough, you can double the ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

7. What should I serve with this dish?

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

8. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop instead of the crockpot?

Yes, sauté the sausage and onions first, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer until the potatoes are tender.

9. Can I use chicken sausage instead of kielbasa?

Yes, chicken sausage is a great lower-fat alternative and works well in this recipe.

10. How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?

Avoid overcooking and cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of smoky sausage, tender green beans, and soft potatoes creates a hearty meal with minimal effort. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

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