Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew recipe.
It’s perfect for busy days when I want a warm, satisfying dinner without hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender kielbasa, fresh veggies, and rich broth creates a comforting dish that fills you up.
Plus, the slow cooker does all the work—just toss in the ingredients and let it simmer. I can’t resist the aroma wafting through my home as it cooks.
It’s simple, delicious, and a family favorite that I keep coming back to time and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew
When it comes to a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew is just the ticket. You’ll find that the ingredients are simple, and you probably have most of them on hand. That’s the beauty of this recipe—it’s easy to throw together, and it makes your home smell divine while it simmers away.
Grab your slow cooker and let’s explore the list of ingredients that will bring this comforting dish to life.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cabbage, coarsely chopped
- 3 cups potatoes, cubed (peeled if you prefer)
- 1 ½ cups carrots, sliced
- 1 to 2 lb kielbasa, sliced
- ½ teaspoon dried basil, crushed
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme, crushed
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 56 ounces chicken broth
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
Now, a couple of things to keep in mind when you’re gathering your ingredients. First, don’t stress if you can’t find fresh kielbasa; the pre-packaged stuff works just fine and is often what I use—I’m all about saving time.
Also, feel free to get creative with the veggies. If you have other favorites like bell peppers or even some frozen peas, toss them in; after all, this stew is all about what you enjoy. Just make sure to keep the ratios somewhat similar so that the flavors stay balanced.
And let’s be real, there’s something incredibly satisfying about chopping up veggies and tossing them in a pot—it’s like culinary therapy, even if you occasionally chop a finger instead of the carrot.
How to Make Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew
Alright, let’s get our slow cooker ready for some serious comfort food magic. First up, grab that 4 cups of coarsely chopped cabbage and throw it into the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s like the cozy blanket for all the other ingredients.
Then, take 3 cups of cubed potatoes—feel free to peel them if you want, but I often skip that step because, hey, more nutrients, right? Toss those in next.
Now, slice up about 1 to 2 pounds of kielbasa. If you’re feeling fancy, you can go for the fresh stuff, but honestly, any pre-packaged kielbasa will work just fine. It’s all about ease and flavor here, my friends.
Once you’ve layered your veggies and kielbasa, sprinkle ½ teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper over the top. This is where the magic starts to happen; those herbs are going to infuse everything with warmth and flavor.
Now, grab your 56 ounces of chicken broth and pour it over the whole shebang. Make sure everything is submerged in liquid—nothing worse than a dry stew. If it looks a bit sparse, don’t hesitate to add a little more broth.
Now, drop in those 2 chicken bouillon cubes for that extra depth of flavor.
Once everything is in, cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for 7 to 9 hours or on high for 3.5 to 4.5 hours. I know, it feels like an eternity, but trust me, the wait is worth it.
During that time, your house will smell like a cozy restaurant, and you might just find yourself hovering around the kitchen, hoping for a taste test before it’s even done.
Once the time is up, you’ll have a hearty stew that’s ready to warm your soul. Just be careful not to burn your tongue on the first bite—because you know we all do that!
Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew Substitutions & Variations
While this Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand.
You can swap out cabbage for kale or spinach, which adds a different flavor and texture. If you prefer, try sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a touch of sweetness.
For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary.
You can even toss in other veggies like bell peppers or green beans to make it your own!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew
If you’re wondering what to serve with your Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew, you’ve got some great options to complement its hearty flavors.
I love pairing it with crusty bread for dipping; it soaks up the delicious broth perfectly. A simple green salad adds a revitalizing crunch and balances the richness of the stew.
You might also consider serving it with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans for an extra veggie boost.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try mashed potatoes on the side to create a comforting meal that warms you right up.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Slow Cooker Kielbasa Stew turns out perfectly, I recommend preparing your vegetables in advance. This saves time and guarantees even cooking.
Don’t hesitate to customize the stew by adding your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or green beans. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some potatoes before serving or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end.
Remember, the longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes, so adjust your timing based on your schedule.
Finally, let it cool before storing leftovers, and it’ll taste even better the next day! Enjoy your hearty meal!