Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans is a hearty, comforting slow cooker dinner packed with smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful green beans. It takes just 15 minutes to prep, and then your crockpot does the rest. As a result, you get a warm, family friendly meal with almost no effort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans Recipe
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans brings together simple ingredients and big, cozy flavor. Because it cooks low and slow, every bite turns rich and satisfying. Meanwhile, you can go about your day without standing over the stove.
Easy 15 Minute Prep
First, you chop the kielbasa, trim the green beans, and cube the potatoes. Then, you toss everything into the slow cooker. In fact, the prep takes about 15 minutes, which makes this perfect for busy mornings.
One Pot Slow Cooker Convenience
Since everything cooks in one crockpot, cleanup stays simple. You add the ingredients, stir, and let it cook. Meanwhile, the broth blends with the sausage and vegetables, so you get deep flavor without extra pans.
Hearty, Comforting, and Family Friendly
Because this dish combines smoky kielbasa with tender potatoes and green beans, it feels like true comfort food. My family loves how filling it is. Also, kids tend to enjoy the mild, savory flavor.
Budget Friendly Ingredients
Kielbasa, potatoes, and green beans cost less than many cuts of meat. Therefore, Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans works well for feeding a crowd without stretching your grocery budget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans uses simple pantry staples. However, each one plays an important role in flavor and texture.
Main Ingredients
You need 1 pound of kielbasa cut into ½ inch pieces. The sausage adds smoky, savory flavor.
Next, use 8 cups of green beans trimmed and cut into 1 to 2 inch pieces. Fresh green beans hold their texture well in the slow cooker.
Then, peel 4 large potatoes and cut them into 1 inch chunks. As they cook, they soften and lightly thicken the broth.
Finally, pour in 3 cups of chicken broth. This helps everything cook evenly and keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
Seasonings
Add 1 tablespoon onion powder and 1 tablespoon garlic powder for bold, savory depth. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Together, these simple spices bring out the best in the kielbasa and vegetables.
Optional Add Ins and Substitutions
If you like extra flavor, add fresh chopped onions or minced garlic. You can also try red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier bite.
Meanwhile, turkey kielbasa works well if you want a lighter option. You may also add dried thyme or parsley for a fresh herbal touch.
How to Make Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans Step by Step
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans comes together quickly. Then, the slow cooker handles the rest.
Prep the Ingredients
First, trim and cut the green beans into bite size pieces. Next, peel and cube the potatoes into 1 inch chunks.
Then, slice the kielbasa into ½ inch rounds. Try to keep the pieces similar in size so they cook evenly.
Layer Everything in the Crockpot
Add the kielbasa, green beans, and potato chunks into the crockpot. After that, pour in the chicken broth so it covers the ingredients evenly.
Because everything cooks together, the flavors blend beautifully as they heat.
Season and Stir
Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Then, stir well so the seasoning coats the sausage and vegetables.
This step helps the spices spread evenly throughout Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans.
Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on HIGH for about 4 hours or on LOW for about 6 hours.
By the end, the potatoes should feel fork tender. Meanwhile, the green beans turn soft but still hold their shape.
Serve and Enjoy
Spoon Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans directly into bowls. If you prefer a heartier plate, serve it over cooked rice or egg noodles.
Either way, the smoky broth soaks into every bite.
Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
Although this recipe is simple, a few small tips make it even better.
Choosing the Right Kielbasa
Look for a fully cooked smoked kielbasa with a rich flavor. Since it simmers for hours, a high quality sausage makes a big difference.
Best Potatoes for Slow Cooking
Yukon Gold and red potatoes hold their shape well. However, russet potatoes work too and break down slightly, which thickens the broth as a result.
How to Keep Green Beans Tender, Not Mushy
Cut green beans into larger pieces so they do not overcook. Also, avoid cooking longer than recommended, especially on HIGH.
Adjusting Seasonings to Taste
Before serving, taste the broth. Then, add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Because kielbasa varies in saltiness, small adjustments help balance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans works in many ways. Therefore, you can keep dinner simple or dress it up.
Serve as a Complete One Pot Meal
Since this dish includes protein and vegetables, you can serve it as is. The potatoes make it filling and satisfying.
Pair with Rice or Egg Noodles
If you want extra comfort, spoon the mixture over rice or egg noodles. As a result, the savory broth coats every grain or noodle.
Add Simple Sides Like Coleslaw or Bread
Meanwhile, crusty bread or a scoop of coleslaw adds contrast. The fresh crunch pairs nicely with the warm, tender vegetables.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans stores well, so it is great for leftovers.
How to Store Leftovers in the Refrigerator
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Then, reheat when ready to serve.
How to Freeze Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans
You can freeze this dish in freezer safe containers. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. As it cools, the potatoes thicken the broth, so you may add a splash of chicken broth when warming it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetables should not be added to a slow cooker?
Delicate vegetables like zucchini or spinach can overcook quickly. Therefore, add soft vegetables near the end if you use them.
Are green beans good in the crockpot?
Yes, green beans work very well in the crockpot. They absorb flavor while staying tender when cooked for the right amount of time.
How long do green beans take in a slow cooker?
Green beans usually take about 4 hours on HIGH or 6 hours on LOW. However, cooking longer can make them too soft.
Are beans safe in a slow cooker?
Yes, most beans are safe when fully cooked. However, dried kidney beans require proper boiling before slow cooking, while fresh green beans cook safely in this recipe.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy
- The Best Chicken Alfredo Slow Cooker
- Classic Crockpot Chicken Tacos Recipe
- Slow Cooker Stuffed Peppers Easy Comfort
- Best Chicken Pot Pie Crock Pot
- Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs Recipe
Conclusion
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans is a simple, satisfying slow cooker dinner that fits busy weeknights and cozy family meals. Because it uses affordable ingredients and easy prep, it works well for meal planning too. Meanwhile, the smoky kielbasa and tender vegetables create deep, comforting flavor in every bite. For more easy ideas, you can also follow along at pinterest and save your favorites for later.
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans
Equipment
- Slow cooker 6 quart recommended
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 8 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Trim and cut the green beans into 1 to 2 inch pieces. Peel and cube the potatoes into 1 inch chunks. Slice the kielbasa into 1/2 inch rounds.
- Add the kielbasa, green beans, and potatoes to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth.
- Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for about 4 hours or on LOW for about 6 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve directly from the crockpot or spoon over rice or egg noodles if desired.
