This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a cozy dish packed with juicy sausage and soft potatoes. It’s super easy—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Honestly, I love how all the flavors blend together. Plus, the smell while it cooks is simply irresistible! Serve it with a side salad, and you have a hearty meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: I like using kielbasa for its rich flavor, but you can also try andouille for a bit of spice. If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey sausage works well too!
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns make this dish super easy, but using fresh potatoes adds a nice texture. Just remember to cube them evenly! Sweet potatoes can be a tasty alternative for a different flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor, but if you want a vegetarian option or don’t have it, cream of mushroom soup is a great substitute. You can also make a homemade version using a roux and broth!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick to the casserole, but you can use mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses. Monterey Jack or pepper jack would also be delicious!
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Casserole?
The texture of your casserole relies on well-cooked potatoes and the right mix of ingredients. Make sure you mix everything well before adding it to the slow cooker. This ensures all flavors blend nicely.
- Layered ingredients can create uneven cooking, so spread everything evenly in the slow cooker.
- For a creamier casserole, don’t skip the sour cream—it’s key!
- Stir the finished dish gently before serving. This redistributes the ingredients and avoids clumping.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (such as kielbasa or andouille)
- 4 cups frozen diced hash browns or fresh potatoes, cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in your slow cooker for 3-8 hours, depending on the heat setting you choose. So, you can set it and forget it until it’s time to enjoy a warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced smoked sausage, frozen diced hash browns, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well blended. This will be the flavorful base for your casserole!
2. Get Your Slow Cooker Ready:
Take a moment to grease the inside of the slow cooker with some cooking spray or a little oil. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking, making cleanup a breeze later on.
3. Fill the Slow Cooker:
Pour your sausage and potato mixture into the greased slow cooker. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks evenly throughout. Now, you’re almost ready to let the slow cooker do its magic!
4. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s all about how much time you have! The dish is ready when the potatoes are tender and everything is heated through.
5. Stir and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, take off the lid and give the casserole a gentle stir to mix any ingredients that may have settled at the bottom. It’s time to serve this comforting meal! Spoon it onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your warm bowl of goodness!
Can I Substitute the Smoked Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a meatless option like vegetarian sausage. Just keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly, so adjust your seasonings if necessary!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can opt for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce can work well — just whisk together butter, flour, and milk until smooth, then season to your taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just make sure to peel and cube them into small pieces. They may take a little longer to cook, so keep an eye on the casserole and test for tenderness as needed throughout the cooking process.
