Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces (smoked kielbasa works best)
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Substitution tips: If you prefer a milder sausage, you can substitute kielbasa with turkey sausage or even a good-quality smoked sausage. For green beans, fresh is ideal, but if you only have frozen, just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid them becoming mushy.
Instructions
- Begin by prepping your ingredients. Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces, trim the green beans, and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes if using. I find chopping everything ahead of time makes the process smoother, especially when the kitchen is bustling with kids.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until it starts to brown and release its smoky aroma. This step deepens the flavor and reminds me of the times my Nonna Rosa would coax every bit of taste from simple ingredients.
- Transfer the browned kielbasa to your crockpot. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic, green beans, and cherry tomatoes on top.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper over the mixture. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the spices, but don’t overmix—you want the ingredients to layer their flavors slowly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. The green beans should be tender but still vibrant, and the sausage well-infused with the spices and broth. I like to check once around the halfway point to give a gentle stir and make sure everything is cooking evenly.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness—my daughters always love helping with this part!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
