This Slow Cooker Sausage And Potato Casserole is like a warm hug in a bowl! It features tasty sausage, tender potatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese that melts beautifully.
I love how easy it is—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic. Perfect for busy days when you want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Kielbasa or andouille are popular choices, adding rich flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, try turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
Frozen Hash Browns: These are easy and convenient! You can also use fresh potatoes, just dice them up and par-cook them before adding, which adds a nice texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This brings a creamy texture to the casserole. If you prefer a healthier option or need it dairy-free, use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version with pureed beans or cashews.
Chedder Cheese: It’s great for melting and flavor. If you want a different taste, feel free to switch to Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even a dairy-free cheese.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking in a slow cooker is all about layering flavors. Start by placing the hash browns at the bottom, as they need the most time to cook. Make sure to season each layer—this way, every bite is full of flavor!
- Mix the soup and spices really well, so the flavors combine before pouring over the hash browns.
- Cut the sausages evenly to ensure they cook through and blend nicely with other ingredients by distributing them well in the casserole.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (such as kielbasa or andouille)
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned, drained or fresh)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Seasonings:
Garnish:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be cooked in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Layer the Hash Browns:
Start by placing the frozen hash brown potatoes at the bottom of a large slow cooker. Make sure they cover the bottom evenly.
2. Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until combined and smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the soup mixture over the layer of hash browns in the slow cooker. This will help to ensure that those potatoes cook up tender and flavorful.
4. Add the Sausage:
Now, take your sliced smoked sausage and lay it on top of the soup-covered hash browns.
5. Add Onions and Tomatoes:
Sprinkle the chopped onion and diced tomatoes over the sausage layer. This will add a nice touch of freshness to your casserole.
6. Top it with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of everything. This cheese will melt and create a delicious crust.
7. Cook to Perfection:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is heated through.
8. Mix and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, gently stir everything together to combine those delicious layers. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if you like a little extra color. Enjoy your comforting casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh potatoes, you’ll want to peel and dice them into small cubes. Cook them on high for about 5-6 hours or low for 8-10 hours, ensuring they are tender before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you need a substitute, you can use homemade cream of chicken by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of flour, whisked together until smooth. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup works well for a similar creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, replace the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You could also add more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, for additional flavor and nutrition!
