Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Beans
Hola! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a Florida girl falls in love with hearty, family-friendly recipes that make dinnertime effortless, this Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans is the answer. I grew up surrounded by flavors that tell a story, and now I love bringing that same warmth into quick, practical meals. This dish combines smoky kielbasa, tender green beans, and buttery baby potatoes, creating a wholesome dinner that feels like comfort in every bite. It’s one of my favorite family crockpot meals, and I promise it’ll become yours too. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a little kitchen magic.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Cuisine | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 6–7 hours low or 3–4 hours high | 6–7 hours 15 minutes | 4–6 | Easy | American | Year-round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless prep: Just slice, season, and let the crockpot do the work while you get on with your day.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults both love the smoky kielbasa paired with tender veggies.
- Versatile: You can swap fresh green beans for canned or add your favorite spices to make it your own.
- Balanced meal: Protein, veggies, and potatoes come together in one dish, making dinner simple and complete.
- Great for gatherings: This recipe doubles easily, making it perfect for potlucks or casual family dinners.
Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans
- Total Time: 6–7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans recipe is a hearty one-pot meal made with smoky sausage, tender baby potatoes, and crisp green beans. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (or 2 cans, drained)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp butter, cut into pieces
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
Instructions
1. Place kielbasa, green beans, potatoes, and onion into your crockpot.
2. Sprinkle in garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour chicken broth over the top and dot with butter pieces.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
5. Gently stir halfway through cooking.
6. Before serving, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Serve as a complete meal or pair with crusty bread or cornbread.
Use fresh or canned green beans depending on preference.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Taste and adjust salt based on the sodium level of your broth and sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed (or 2 cans 15 oz green beans, drained)
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved (red or yellow)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Garnish: fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional)
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Kielbasa | Use smoked sausage for a deeper flavor, or turkey kielbasa for a lighter option. |
| Green Beans | Fresh gives the best texture, but canned or frozen work well if you’re short on time. |
| Potatoes | Baby potatoes hold their shape better, but you can use russet or Yukon cut into chunks. |
| Onion | Yellow onions bring sweetness, while red onions add a bolder flavor. |
| Chicken Broth | Use low-sodium broth to better control seasoning. |
| Garlic | Fresh garlic boosts flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch. |
| Butter | Adds richness, but you can substitute with olive oil. |
| Smoked Paprika | Optional, but adds a warm, smoky depth that pairs perfectly with kielbasa. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Layer the ingredients: Add sliced kielbasa, green beans, baby potatoes, and onions into the crockpot.
- Season generously: Sprinkle with minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This layering ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Add liquids and fat: Pour chicken broth evenly over the top, then dot butter pieces across the mixture. This will create a rich broth as it cooks.
- Set and cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender and the flavors melded together.
- Stir midway: Gently stir halfway through cooking for even distribution of seasonings and heat.
- Finish with garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for a pop of freshness and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the crockpot, or the potatoes may cook unevenly.
- Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Slice kielbasa into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Use a crockpot liner for easier cleanup.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Brown the kielbasa first: Searing in a skillet adds caramelized flavor.
- Cut potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Stir gently: Over-stirring can break apart tender potatoes and beans.
- Add fresh herbs last: Adding parsley or dill right before serving keeps flavors bright.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or use hot smoked sausage for extra kick.
- Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded cheddar at the end for a creamy, cheesy dish.
- Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
- Southern-style: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang and a more traditional Southern taste.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can prep all ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and dump them straight into the crockpot in the morning. Leftovers freeze beautifully: just portion into freezer bags, remove excess air, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crockpot kielbasa and green beans in deep bowls for a cozy presentation. Add crusty bread, cornbread, or a light side salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh parsley on top makes it look restaurant-worthy.
Pairing Ideas
This hearty dish pairs well with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp lager. If you prefer wine, try a light red like Pinot Noir or a slightly sweet Riesling to balance the smoky flavors. For sides, consider garlic bread or roasted veggies.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. This helps keep the potatoes soft without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh? Yes, frozen green beans work well. Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing.
Can I double this recipe? Absolutely. Just use a larger crockpot and adjust cooking time slightly.
Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, replace kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Can I cook this on the stovetop? Yes, simmer in a covered Dutch oven on low heat for about 45 minutes until potatoes are tender.
What’s the best way to add more spice? Add cayenne, jalapeños, or spicy sausage. Adjust heat level based on preference.
Will canned potatoes work? They can, but they may break apart easily. Fresh or baby potatoes are best for texture.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, carrots, bell peppers, or corn make delicious additions.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 350 | 15g | 30g | 20g | 5g | 2g |
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans recipe is the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights easier and family dinners more enjoyable. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Grab your slow cooker and give it a try tonight!
