If you’re craving a hearty, easy-to-make, and family-friendly meal, look no further than Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans. This rustic, comforting dish combines the smoky goodness of kielbasa sausage with the earthy tenderness of green beans and potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth. Whether you’re tackling a busy weekday or prepping for a cozy weekend dinner, this one-pot wonder will satisfy every time.

A major appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, your crockpot handles all the magic while you get on with your day. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Not sure what kind of sausage to use? You can explore the different varieties of kielbasa and other smoked sausages through the National Pork Board’s sausage guide, which details flavor profiles and uses.

To make your slow-cooked meals even better, follow some of these expert tips for slow cooker success from The Kitchn. These will ensure your potatoes aren’t mushy, your sausage doesn’t dry out, and your green beans stay tender-crisp.

What Is Kielbasa?

Kielbasa means “sausage” in Polish, and it’s a staple in Eastern European cuisine. In the U.S., the term usually refers to a smoked Polish sausage made with pork, garlic, marjoram, and other seasonings. Its robust, garlicky flavor and dense texture make it perfect for slow-cooking without falling apart. Whether grilled, sautéed, or stewed, kielbasa holds its own in any dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to craft this flavorful, one-pot meal:

1 pound kielbasa, sliced into ½” pieces
8 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
3 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional additions:

Cherry tomatoes
Baby carrots
Red pepper flakes for a spicy twist

Kitchen Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

A slow cooker (Crockpot)
A cutting board and sharp knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Large spoon for mixing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a no-fuss dinner:

Wash and prep your green beans and potatoes.
Cut the kielbasa into bite-sized rounds.
Add the kielbasa, green beans, and potatoes to the crockpot.
Pour in the chicken broth and add your seasonings.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cover and cook:
- High for 4 hours
- Low for 6 hours
Serve hot as-is, or over rice or egg noodles.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans is filling on its own, but you can round it out with:

Buttered egg noodles
White or brown rice
Cornbread
Coleslaw
Steamed cabbage
Potato salad for a picnic-style twist

Popular Recipe Variations

Customize this dish to suit your tastes:

Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangy flavor boost
Use spicy kielbasa or add red pepper flakes
Swap in sweet potatoes or baby red potatoes
Replace green beans with Brussels sprouts or carrots
Try a vegan sausage for a plant-based version

Tips for Best Flavor

Brown the kielbasa before adding to the crockpot for more depth
Cut all veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking
Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake
Don’t over-stir during cooking—let the flavors meld naturally
Add delicate vegetables (like tomatoes or spinach) in the last hour

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Planning ahead? This dish is perfect for prepping in advance:

Make-Ahead: Chop and refrigerate the ingredients the night before
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month
Reheat: Thaw in fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave

For detailed food storage safety, refer to the FDA’s food storage guidelines.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Per serving (1 cup):

Calories: ~350
Protein: 16g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 850mg

Adjust seasoning and portion sizes to match dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does kielbasa mean?
Kielbasa is the Polish word for sausage. It’s usually smoked and heavily seasoned with garlic.

Can I use other potatoes?
Absolutely. Russet, red, yellow, or even baby potatoes work well.

Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the crockpot.

What’s traditionally served with kielbasa?
Kielbasa pairs well with cabbage, potatoes, rice, noodles, and sauerkraut.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer in a large pot for about 45–60 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Is kielbasa gluten-free?
Check the label. Many brands are, but some contain fillers that may include gluten.

Why You’ll Make This Again and Again

There’s something undeniably comforting about Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and leaves your kitchen smelling amazing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe deserves a permanent place in your rotation.