7 Easy Crockpot Polish Sausage Recipes to Try

If you're looking to explore the flavors of Poland through the ease of slow cooking, you've come to the right place. Polish sausage, also known as kielbasa, is a versatile ingredient that lends itself beautifully to the crockpot. Here are seven delectable recipes that will have you falling in love with Polish cuisine. Each recipe brings out the rich, smoky flavors of kielbasa, providing comfort and convenience in equal measure.

1. Hearty Kielbasa Potato Soup

A warm bowl of this soup can turn any chilly day into a cozy one. Here’s how to prepare it:

• 6-8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups of kale or spinach, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

📝 Note: For a creamier version, add 1 cup of heavy cream or milk towards the end of cooking.

2. Kielbasa and Cabbage Stew

This dish melds the heartiness of kielbasa with the earthy flavors of cabbage:

• 1 pound of kielbasa, sliced
• 1 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

3. Slow Cooker Polish Sausage with Peppers and Onions

This recipe is perfect for sandwich lovers, offering a taste of street food right at home:

• 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 1 large bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and dried thyme

4. Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut Casserole

Combine the tang of sauerkraut with the smokiness of kielbasa for a comforting dish:

• 2 pounds of kielbasa, sliced
• 2 pounds sauerkraut, drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 apple, chopped (optional)
• ¹⁄₂ cup of brown sugar
• 1 cup of apple juice or chicken broth

📝 Note: The apple adds a slight sweetness to balance the sourness of sauerkraut.

5. Crockpot Jambalaya with Polish Sausage

A delightful twist on a classic, adding Polish sausage to the mix:

• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
• 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed
• ¹⁄₂ pound raw shrimp, peeled (optional)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 teaspoon each of thyme, oregano, and paprika

6. Creamy Polish Sausage Pasta

This is a rich, creamy dish that is simple to prepare in the crockpot:

• 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ¹⁄₂ cup milk or cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¹⁄₂ cup frozen peas (optional)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon each of onion and garlic powder

7. Sweet and Savory Kielbasa Bites

A perfect appetizer or snack, these bites are a crowd-pleaser:

• 2 pounds kielbasa, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup mustard
• ¹⁄₄ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon each of salt and pepper

Final Thoughts

These seven recipes showcase the versatility of Polish sausage in slow cooking. From soups to stews, casseroles, and even snacks, kielbasa adds a delightful taste to many dishes, providing comfort and convenience. Each recipe highlights the unique flavors of Polish cuisine, making your cooking experience both educational and enjoyable. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these crockpot recipes will give you a taste of Poland without having to leave your kitchen.

What kind of kielbasa should I use for these recipes?

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Use a good quality smoked kielbasa for the best results. However, fresh kielbasa can also work if pre-cooked before adding to the slow cooker.

Can these recipes be adapted for a gluten-free or keto diet?

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Absolutely! For gluten-free, ensure all ingredients like sausages and broths are certified gluten-free. For keto, replace high-carb items with low-carb alternatives or skip them entirely.

How long can I store leftovers?

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Most of these dishes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.