This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is the perfect cozy dish! Packed with hearty sausage, golden potatoes, and tasty veggies, it’s a simple and filling meal.
Honestly, I love that I can just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing. Perfect for busy days when you want comfort food waiting for you at dinner!
And if you’re like me, you might even sneak in extra veggies. A little spinach or bell pepper never hurt anyone, right? It’s a great way to make this dish even more colorful and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa is a great choice for this dish, but you can also use other smoked sausages like andouille or turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using a meatless sausage or mushrooms for added flavor.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes because they hold up well in slow cooking. However, Yukon Golds add a creamy texture too. If you want to skip the peeling, baby potatoes work nicely—just dice them and leave the skins on!
Cream of Chicken Soup: The creaminess is key here. You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste, or make your own from scratch with broth and cream. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cream soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses if you prefer a milder flavor. Nutritional yeast can be a good dairy-free substitute for a cheesy taste.
Diced Tomatoes: I use the canned variety for convenience, but fresh diced tomatoes work too! If you want a little heat, choose tomatoes with green chilies.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Tender in a Slow Cooker Casserole?
The key to getting perfect, tender potatoes lies in a few simple techniques. First, cut your potatoes into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. I prefer to keep the dice to about 1-inch chunks for the best texture.
- Layer your sausage and potatoes in the slow cooker first. Let the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Don’t rush the cooking time. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is ideal if you can plan ahead.
- Check for tenderness around the 6-hour mark on low. They should easily pierce with a fork without falling apart.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This warm and comforting casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll set it to cook in the slow cooker for 4 to 7 hours, depending on your heat setting. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that will surely please your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, add the sliced smoked sausage, diced potatoes, diced onion, and the can of undrained diced tomatoes. Make sure everything is evenly distributed to make a hearty base for your casserole.
2. Mix the Soup Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with the milk. Then add in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will create a creamy sauce for your casserole.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the smooth soup mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Gently stir to ensure all the potatoes and sausage are covered in the creamy goodness.
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook it on high for 4-5 hours or on low for 6-7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and all the flavors are melded together beautifully.
5. Add the Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cover again. This will allow the cheese to melt and create a deliciously cheesy topping for your casserole.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and everything is ready, scoop it into bowls and serve hot. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausages?
Absolutely! You can substitute the smoked sausage with other varieties like Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using a sausage that requires pre-cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Creamier?
If you want a creamier casserole, feel free to add an extra half cup of milk or a bit of sour cream or cream cheese. Mix it into the soup mixture before pouring it over the ingredients in the slow cooker for an extra rich flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green beans. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them with the other ingredients in the slow cooker. Just make sure not to overload it, so the potatoes cook evenly!
