This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a warm and cozy dish! It combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and flavorful spices for a meal that practically cooks itself.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty dinner without much fuss. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic—easy peasy!
I love serving this casserole with a simple side salad. It’s so comforting that I often go back for seconds! Don’t worry, I won’t judge your extra helpings! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa and Andouille are great options that bring flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are perfect for this casserole. They hold up well in the slow cooker. If you need a low-carb swap, cauliflower florets or sweet potatoes can be good substitutes.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you’re avoiding canned soups, you can make a quick homemade version using milk, flour, and seasoned chicken broth. For a vegetarian version, try cream of mushroom soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings richness to the casserole. You could use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Achieve Creamy, Delicious Casserole in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking in a slow cooker requires some attention to layering and timing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by layering the diced potatoes on the bottom; this helps them cook evenly.
- Mix your sausage and soup ingredients in a bowl. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Pour the mixture over the potatoes, followed by the cheese on top. This traps moisture and flavor.
- Cooking on low for longer is the best way to ensure the flavors meld together and the potatoes become tender without overcooking.
Remember, stirring the casserole gently after cooking helps blend everything together without breaking up the potato pieces too much. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or Andouille), sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or russet)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and then let the slow cooker do its magic for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Layer the Potatoes:
Start by placing the diced potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spread them out evenly to create a nice layer that will cook beautifully under the other ingredients.
2. Mix the Sausage Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced sausage, cream of chicken soup, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This will be the yummy sauce that brings everything together!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Next, pour the sausage mixture right over the layer of potatoes in the slow cooker. Try to pour it evenly so every potato gets some of that delicious flavor.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage mixture. This will melt into the casserole while it cooks, adding a cheesy goodness!
5. Cook it Up:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6 to 8 hours for tender potatoes or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Either way, your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Stir and Serve:
Once it’s cooked and the potatoes are tender, give the casserole a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. This will help mix in all that melted cheese and sausage flavor.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, top your casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to enjoy—dig in and savor this hearty meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage for a lighter option or a spicier sausage like chorizo for added heat. Just keep in mind that different sausages will alter the dish’s overall flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you want to make this dish without cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, and chicken broth as a base. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup or any similar creamy soup can work as a substitute!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, you can enhance the dish by adding other vegetables! Consider carrots, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into similar sizes as the potatoes so they cook evenly. Add denser vegetables at the start of cooking and quicker-cooking ones midway through for best results!
