Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty casserole, especially when it’s as easy to make as this Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole. This dish brings together the savory flavors of kielbasa sausage, creamy potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this casserole requires minimal prep time and offers a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of cubed hash browns
• 14 oz of kielbasa sausage, cut into pieces
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick spray.
2. Put the hash browns, kielbasa sausage, onion, and 2 cups of cheese in the slow cooker. Mix them well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the potato and sausage mix in the slow cooker and stir.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes | Calories: 691 | Servings: 8

Avoiding Common Mistakes:

Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.

Variations and Substitutions:

Alternative Sausages: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, for a different flavor profile.
Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack cheese for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken to make a vegetarian version.

Tips for Success:

Best Practices for Slow Cooking: Always ensure your slow cooker is properly sealed to retain moisture and heat, ensuring even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I Use Fresh Potatoes? Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just make sure to peel and cube them before adding to the slow cooker.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option? You can make this casserole dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream substitutes.
How Can I Make It Spicier? Add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I Add Vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Being Too Watery? Ensure you drain any excess liquid from the hash browns before adding them to the slow cooker and avoid adding extra liquid.

Conclusion:

This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite for busy families and home cooks alike. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy.