This Crockpot Sausage Casserole is a warm hug in a meal! Made with tasty sausage, veggies, and hearty rice, it’s super simple to throw together and even better when it’s bubbling away all day.
Honestly, I love how the flavors blend together while I go about my day. Just set it and forget it—perfect for busy schedules and cozy nights in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa or andouille are both great choices for this recipe. If you want something lighter, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian option, try slicing up some plant-based sausage or even mushrooms for added texture.
Baby Potatoes: If you can’t find baby potatoes, regular potatoes cut into chunks are a good substitute. Sweet potatoes can bring a nice sweet twist to the dish, so consider using those if you’re feeling adventurous.
Beans: The combination of black and pinto beans adds protein and creaminess to this casserole. Feel free to swap in white beans, or even chickpeas, based on what you have. Canned beans are a time saver, just remember to rinse them!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes with green chilies bring a kick of flavor. You can substitute diced tomatoes with plain tomatoes and add a bit of canned green chilies if you want that spicy punch. Fire-roasted tomatoes can add a smoky flavor too.
How Do I Make Sure the Potatoes Are Perfectly Tender?
Cooking the potatoes in the crockpot is all about timing. To ensure they come out tender, make sure you cut them into even halves so they cook uniformly. Layer them at the bottom of the crockpot—that’s where the heat is concentrated. Set your crockpot appropriately too, low for a longer time, or high for a quick meal. Always check them at the minimum cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Cut potatoes into even halves and layer them at the bottom.
- Set the crockpot on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for tenderness with a fork before it’s served.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (like kielbasa or andouille), sliced
- 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crockpot sausage casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and then cooks for either 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low. You can set it and forget it while it slowly cooks to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing your smoked sausage and halving the baby potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. This will make it easier to add everything to the crockpot without any delays!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Once everything is prepared, grab your crockpot and add the sliced sausage, halved baby potatoes, black beans, pinto beans, corn, and diced tomatoes right into the pot. This is the heart of your casserole!
3. Add Aromatics and Liquids:
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to mix in all the lovely flavors!
4. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything once more to ensure the seasonings are well distributed.
5. Cook and Wait:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the sausage is juicy. The longer cook will deepen the flavors, so choose your setting based on your schedule!
6. Final Touches:
When cooking time is up, check the seasoning again and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it. If you like, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your hearty crockpot sausage casserole while it’s hot. It’s perfect for cozy dinners! Enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use Fresh Sausage Instead of Smoked Sausage?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh sausage! Just make sure to brown it in a skillet beforehand to enhance its flavor before adding it to the crockpot. Fresh sausage will add a slightly different taste and texture to your casserole, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Baby Potatoes?
If you don’t have baby potatoes, you can use any small potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. You could also use regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower florets can also be a great substitute!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with extra beans or other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to freeze the casserole, you can store it in a freezer-safe container; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
