A cheap, filling, and beginner-friendly crockpot meal perfect for meal prep or family dinners. This recipe uses simple pantry staples and stretches ingredients into multiple servings.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves ~6)
Estimated cost: ~$8–12 total (varies by location)
1 small green cabbage, chopped
1 lb smoked sausage (or kielbasa), sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
2 carrots, sliced (optional but cheap & tasty)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
4 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
👉 Optional cheap add-ins: white beans, rice, barley, or extra veggies.
🍲 Crockpot Instructions
Layer veggies first: cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic.
Add sliced sausage on top.
Pour in broth and diced tomatoes (with juices).
Sprinkle seasonings, salt, and pepper.
Cook:
LOW for 6–8 hours or
HIGH for 3–4 hours
Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning before serving.
💡 Budget Tips
Swap sausage for leftover ham or beans for a cheaper vegetarian version
Use water + bouillon instead of broth
Freeze extra portions for quick meals
Add rice when serving to stretch servings even further
📸 Extra Serving Inspiration
Budget Crockpot Cabbage & Sausage Stew (Easy & Filling)
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and affordable slow cooker meal, this crockpot cabbage and sausage stew is a perfect choice. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s ideal for busy families, meal prep, or anyone cooking on a budget.
Ingredients
1 small green cabbage, chopped
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
3 potatoes, diced
2 carrots, sliced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Add cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
Place sliced sausage on top.
Pour in broth and diced tomatoes.
Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Stir, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
Tips
This recipe is very flexible. You can add beans for extra protein, rice to stretch servings, or swap sausage for leftover meat. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s hearty, simple, and budget-friendly!
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