If you’re after a hearty, comforting dinner that cooks itself while you go about your day, Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes might just be your next favorite. This classic one-pot wonder is a cozy blend of smoky kielbasa, buttery soft cabbage, and tender potatoes—all seasoned and simmered to perfection in your slow cooker.

Ideal for chilly nights or when you need a fuss-free meal, this recipe delivers old-fashioned flavors with modern convenience. Plus, the leftovers reheat like a dream, making it a solid choice for meal prep or easy next-day lunches.

What Kind of Kielbasa Should I Use?

Go for a fully-cooked smoked kielbasa sausage. You can use pork, beef, or a mix—whatever suits your taste. Just slice it into rounds and let the slow cooker do the rest. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, turkey kielbasa works great too.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes

1 lb kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped
5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)

Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes 2

How To Make the Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Chop the cabbage, dice the potatoes, and slice the onion and kielbasa. Mince the garlic and have your chicken broth ready to go.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Start by layering the diced potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, and minced garlic on top. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter evenly over the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Kielbasa

Place the sliced kielbasa over the layered vegetables. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Pour in the chicken broth and add apple cider vinegar if using.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender and the kielbasa is infused with flavor.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Before serving, give everything a gentle stir to mix the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes

Serve this dish hot, straight from the slow cooker into deep bowls. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or even a scoop of mustard on the side for an extra tang. If you’re serving guests, sprinkle a bit of chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh finish.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or stovetop. This dish also freezes well—just portion it out and store for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?

Yes, red potatoes work just as well. They hold their shape nicely and bring a slightly sweeter flavor.

Do I need to brown the kielbasa first?

No need to pre-cook the kielbasa. It infuses the dish with flavor as it slow cooks. But if you prefer extra caramelization, feel free to brown it briefly before adding.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth. You can add white beans or smoked tofu for protein.

What’s the best way to reheat this?

Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm larger portions on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer all the ingredients in a large Dutch oven or stockpot, covered, for about 45 minutes or until tender.

Want More Cozy Slow Cooker Ideas?

If you enjoyed this comforting kielbasa dish, you might want to check out more cozy, slow-cooked favorites:

Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken is another hands-off hit, creamy and packed with flavor.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti blends comfort food classics in one pot.
Shipwreck Dinner offers layered beef, veggies, and potatoes with a nostalgic twist.
Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate creamy, cheesy potato bake to pair with hearty mains.
Mexican Potatoes for a zesty spin on your spud routine.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready when you are.

I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you go traditional or add your own twist? Maybe swapped in sweet potatoes or tried it with a splash of beer?

Drop your version in the comments below—let’s keep the comfort food inspiration going! Questions and tips welcome too.

For more of my daily recipes, check out my Pinterest at Nina Dishes.

Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting one-pot meal, this Slow Cooker Kielbasa with Cabbage and Potatoes combines smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and buttery cabbage all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s the ultimate hands-off dinner that’s flavorful, simple, and perfect for chilly nights.

Instructions

1. Chop the cabbage, dice the potatoes, and slice the onion and kielbasa. Mince the garlic and prepare your chicken broth.

2. Layer the diced potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add chopped cabbage, sliced onion, and garlic. Drizzle olive oil or butter over the top.

3. Add the kielbasa slices on top of the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Pour in the broth and optional vinegar.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

5. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.