Sausage Potato Casserole Slow Cooker: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Sausage potato casserole slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this one is about to become your new family favorite! Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. No slaving over a hot stove required!

Casseroles, in general, have a rich history, evolving from humble peasant dishes designed to stretch ingredients into hearty meals. They represent resourcefulness and family togetherness, often passed down through generations. While the exact origins of a sausage potato casserole are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of these two staples has undoubtedly been a comforting meal for centuries across various cultures.

What makes this sausage potato casserole slow cooker recipe so irresistible? It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The savory sausage provides a satisfying richness, while the potatoes offer a creamy, comforting base. The slow cooker method ensures that everything is cooked evenly and infused with flavor, resulting in a dish that is both incredibly delicious and incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash! Who doesn’t love that?

Get ready to experience the ultimate in comfort food with this simple and satisfying recipe. Let’s get cooking!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference), removed from casings
• 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste, remember the soup is salty)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables:

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to brown the sausage and sauté the veggies. This step is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor that will permeate the entire casserole. Trust me, don’t skip it!

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy. We’re aiming for a nice texture in the final dish.
3. Season the Mixture: Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good mix to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The aroma at this point should be amazing!

Layering in the Slow Cooker:

Now comes the fun part – layering everything in the slow cooker! This is where the magic happens, and the slow cooker will work its wonders to create a delicious and comforting casserole.

1. First Layer: Place half of the cubed potatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker. I recommend a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for this recipe. This will prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
2. Second Layer: Spread half of the sausage and vegetable mixture over the potatoes. Try to distribute it evenly so that every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Third Layer: Dollop half of the cream of mushroom soup and half of the cream of chicken soup over the sausage and vegetable mixture. Don’t worry about spreading it perfectly; it will melt and distribute as it cooks.
4. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage and vegetable mixture, and cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups.
5. Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the layers. This will provide moisture and help to cook the potatoes to perfection.

Slow Cooking Process:

Alright, time to let the slow cooker do its thing! This is the easiest part – just set it and forget it (almost!).

1. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check the potatoes for tenderness after 6 hours. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
2. Cook on High (Optional): If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but I find that cooking on low results in a more tender and flavorful casserole.

Adding the Cheese and Finishing Touches:

Almost there! The final step is to add the cheese and let it melt into a gooey, delicious topping. This is what takes the casserole from good to absolutely amazing!

1. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The combination of these two cheeses creates a wonderful flavor and texture.
2. Melt the Cheese: Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
3. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the casserole for a pop of color and freshness. This is totally optional, but I think it adds a nice touch.

Serving and Storing:

Congratulations, you’ve made a delicious sausage potato casserole! Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1. Serve Warm: Serve the casserole warm, straight from the slow cooker. It’s perfect as a main course for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
2. Sides (Optional): This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
3. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few ideas:

• Different Sausage: Feel free to use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or kielbasa, for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or celery, to the skillet with the onions and peppers.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage and vegetable mixture for a little heat.
• Cream Cheese: Stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with the soups for an extra creamy casserole.
• Topping: Top with crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips for a crunchy topping.
• Make it Healthier: Use turkey sausage and low-fat cream of mushroom and chicken soups to make a healthier version of this casserole.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a family favorite that’s always a hit. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you make. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Sausage Potato Casserole Slow Cooker recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy way to feed your family (or yourself!) a hearty and satisfying dish. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding the savory sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce into a symphony of deliciousness. Forget slaving over a hot stove – this recipe allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Think about it: you can prep everything in the morning, toss it into the slow cooker, and come home to a warm, inviting aroma and a ready-to-eat dinner. That’s a win in my book! Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as amazing the next day. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend brunch.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage will add a kick, while a mild breakfast sausage will keep things family-friendly. You can also swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or add in other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a complete meal, serve this casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad.
* Top it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
* Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy delight.
* Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
* If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of diced tomatoes or a jar of roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
* For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
* Consider adding a layer of cornbread mix on top during the last hour of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.

I’ve made this Sausage Potato Casserole Slow Cooker recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. I’m confident that you’ll love the ease of preparation and the incredible flavor of this dish.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to experience the magic of this recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious casserole. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy every bite of this comforting and flavorful meal! I am sure that this Sausage Potato Casserole Slow Cooker will become one of your favorite recipes.