This cozy Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a warm hug in a bowl! With hearty sausage, tender potatoes, and cheesy goodness, it’s the perfect meal for chilly nights.
I love how simple it is to toss everything into the slow cooker. Just set it and forget it! Plus, your house will smell amazing while it cooks—no fancy restaurant can compete with that! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I prefer using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes because they hold up well and have a lovely creamy texture. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes can be an easy alternative.
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa or andouille works great here, but you can substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even vegan sausage for a plant-based meal.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re avoiding dairy or want a homemade touch, you can make a simple white sauce with flour, butter, and chicken broth instead.
Cheddar Cheese: I love a sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. However, feel free to mix in some pepper jack for extra kick or use a dairy-free cheese as a substitute.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add great flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip them or use a pre-made seasoning blend to add taste without the chopping!
How Do I Make My Casserole Cook Evenly in the Slow Cooker?
Getting that perfect cook in a slow cooker is simple with some attention to layering and mixing. Here’s how to ensure everything cooks evenly:
- Start by layering the potatoes at the bottom. This helps them cook through better.
- Add the sausage and vegetables on top. Make sure everything is spread evenly in the pot.
- When mixing wet ingredients, do it gently to avoid breaking up the potatoes too much.
- Lastly, stirring in the cheese 30 minutes before serving allows it to melt perfectly without overcooking!
These tips will give you a well-cooked casserole that’s delicious every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 lb smoked sausage (e.g., kielbasa or andouille), sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Cooking it in the slow cooker will take either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal, perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casserole Base:
In your slow cooker, start by adding the diced potatoes, sliced smoked sausage, chopped onion, and bell pepper if you’re using it. This combination is the foundation of your hearty casserole.
2. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This creamy sauce will bring all the flavors together, so make sure it’s well mixed!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the creamy mixture over the potato and sausage mixture in the slow cooker. Take a spoon and gently stir everything together until it’s well combined and all the ingredients are coated in that delicious sauce.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose the low setting for 6-8 hours or the high setting for 3-4 hours—whatever works best for your schedule. The goal is to have the potatoes tender and the flavors melded together.
5. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This will melt beautifully into the casserole, making it even more comforting and cheesy!
6. Taste and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, give it a good stir and taste a bit. You can add more salt if needed. Serve the casserole hot and if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille gives a great flavor, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage or turkey sausage. Just make sure to cook it beforehand if it’s raw, as this recipe is designed for already cooked sausage.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, if you need a substitute for the cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce to keep it creamy. For a lighter version, you can also try a can of condensed vegetable soup!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a pot on the stove with a little added chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes to the potatoes for even cooking. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly for denser vegetables.
