A Classic Polish Inspired Comfort Dish

Green Beans and Potatoes with Polish Sausage is a hearty dish rooted in Eastern European cooking traditions. Polish cuisine is known for combining simple, affordable ingredients into comforting meals that nourish the whole family. Sausages, or “kielbasa” in Polish, have long been a staple in Polish households, often paired with root vegetables and broth to create filling one-pot meals. This recipe blends the smoky flavor of Polish sausage with the earthy taste of potatoes and the freshness of green beans, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you use fresh garden beans or pantry-friendly canned ones, the dish keeps its traditional feel while being adaptable for modern kitchens.

Why Potatoes, Sausage, and Green Beans Work So Well Together

The combination of potatoes, sausage, and green beans isn’t just about convenience—it’s about flavor balance. Potatoes bring hearty starchiness that makes the dish filling and comforting, while green beans add freshness and a slightly crisp texture. Polish sausage, with its smoky, garlicky notes, infuses the broth with incredible flavor as it simmers. Cooking everything in chicken broth allows the vegetables to absorb extra richness, turning simple ingredients into a flavorful stew. This blend of proteins, vegetables, and carbs makes it a balanced one-pot meal that works for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.

Why This Recipe Is Loved Everywhere

One reason this recipe is so popular is its versatility. It can be prepared with canned, frozen, or fresh green beans, making it accessible year-round. You can also swap Polish sausage with turkey sausage or smoked sausage if you prefer. Since it’s made in a single pot, cleanup is easy, which is a huge plus for busy home cooks. This meal is also budget-friendly and requires just a handful of ingredients that are usually already in your pantry or fridge. The result is a dish that feels rustic, flavorful, and filling—ideal for anyone who loves comforting, no-fuss meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 2 cups green beans (canned, frozen, or fresh)
• 1 cup Polish sausage, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Start the Broth

Pour chicken broth into a large pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Using broth instead of plain water gives the dish a richer base and ensures the potatoes and beans absorb extra flavor as they cook.

Step 2 – Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the boiling broth. Let them cook for 5–7 minutes until they start to soften but are not yet fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom.

Step 3 – Add the Green Beans

Next, stir in the green beans. If using fresh beans, trim and cut them into bite-sized pieces before adding. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until the beans become tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 4 – Add the Polish Sausage

When the potatoes are halfway done and the beans are tender, add the sliced Polish sausage. As the sausage heats through, it will release smoky, savory flavors into the broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5–10 minutes until everything is cooked through.

Step 5 – Taste and Serve

Check the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls, making sure to ladle some of the broth along with the potatoes, green beans, and sausage. For extra heartiness, pair with crusty bread.

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

Green Beans and Potatoes with Polish Sausage

Q1: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the sausage halfway through cooking for best flavor.

Q2: Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely. While Polish kielbasa is traditional, smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage work well. Just keep in mind that leaner sausages may not add as much smoky flavor to the broth.

Q3: Do canned green beans work as well as fresh?

Yes, canned beans can be used, but add them later in the cooking process to avoid over-softening. Fresh or frozen beans hold their texture better, while canned beans add convenience.

Q4: How can I thicken the broth?

If you prefer a thicker stew-like consistency, mash a few potato pieces in the pot and stir. This naturally thickens the broth without adding flour or cornstarch.

Q5: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.