This comforting Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is perfect for busy days! It combines tasty sausage, hearty potatoes, and veggies, all cooked low and slow until everything is super soft and flavorful.
Honestly, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate! I love how easy it is—just toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work. Plus, it makes leftovers for the next day—yay!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: This adds essential flavor to the dish. You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or vegetables like mushrooms for a meatless version.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are a great time-saver, but you can also use fresh diced potatoes. Just be sure to cut them evenly for consistent cooking.
Diced Tomatoes: I enjoy using fresh tomatoes when in season, but canned tomatoes are perfect for convenience. Opt for diced tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can also work well.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is key for creaminess. If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. Homemade soup is a great option too!
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Slow Cooker?
Getting the potatoes just right can be tricky, so here’s how to guarantee tenderness. First, whether using frozen or fresh potatoes, make sure they’re evenly distributed in the slow cooker. If using fresh, cut them into cubes of similar size. Here are a few tips:
- Layer the sliced sausage and potatoes, then the tomatoes on top for better cooking.
- Stir the soup mixture well to ensure even seasoning and creaminess.
- Don’t peek too often while cooking, as this releases heat. Stick to the cooking time unless you really need to check!
Following these simple steps will lead to perfectly cooked and delicious potatoes in your casserole!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (or diced fresh potatoes)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you just let the slow cooker do the work! You can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, making it a perfect meal to set and forget for a busy day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Main Ingredients
Start by placing your sliced smoked sausage, frozen hash browns, and diced tomatoes into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to mix them up nicely.
2. Mix the Soup Mixture
In a separate bowl, take the cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom), and add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it together with a whisk or a spoon until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Soup with Sausage and Potatoes
Pour the creamy soup mixture over your sausage and potatoes in the slow cooker. Stir it all together gently so all the ingredients are well combined and coated in the lovely soup mixture.
4. Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and everything is bubbling with flavor!
5. Add Cheese
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover again, and let it cook for those last 30 minutes so the cheese melts beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s done, give the casserole a gentle stir. If you like, garnish with some chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot and enjoy your hearty, comforting meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you choose to use fresh potatoes, just make sure to dice them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. You may want to parboil them for 5-10 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker to ensure they cook through completely during the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for the Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you need a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even make a homemade version using flour, milk, and broth. Simply whisk together 1/4 cup of flour with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth, then cook on medium heat until thickened. This will work great in the casserole!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the portion or warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it appears too thick upon reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to mix in some frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re adding fresh vegetables since they may require a little less time to cook.
