Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This easy one-pot dish combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy dump-and-go meal – Minimal prep, just toss everything in the slow cooker.
- Comfort food classic – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep – Leftovers reheat well for an easy next-day meal.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Smoked sausage or kielbasa (sliced)
- Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold, diced)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Butter (optional, for richness)
- Green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare ingredients – Slice sausage, dice potatoes, and chop onions.
- Layer in slow cooker – Place potatoes, onions, garlic, and sausage in the slow cooker.
- Mix the sauce – In a bowl, whisk together cream soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the ingredients.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Add cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, cover, and let melt for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve – Garnish with green onions or parsley and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-7 hours
Variations
- Spicy version – Use spicy sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Healthier option – Use turkey sausage and a low-fat cream soup.
- Extra veggies – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Crunchy topping – Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or fried onions before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked?
Yes! Brown it first before adding to the slow cooker.
What’s the best potato for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best as they hold their texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream soup and cheese alternatives.
How do I make it extra cheesy?
Add more shredded cheese or stir in cream cheese before serving.
Can I prep this the night before?
Yes! Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No, but peeling them creates a creamier texture.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes with a quick release.
What can I serve with this?
Pair with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread.
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of diced potatoes?
Yes! Reduce cooking time to 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?
Use firmer potatoes like Yukon Gold and avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness. Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for a crowd, this recipe is sure to please. Try it today and enjoy a stress-free, delicious meal!
Print
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This easy one-pot dish combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy cheese sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection!
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash browns (or 4 cups fresh potatoes, diced)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the inside of a slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
- Add potatoes, sliced sausage, and diced onion to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the potatoes and sausage.
- Stir everything together to coat evenly.
3. Cook Until Tender:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are soft.
4. Add Cheese & Finish:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 more minutes, until the cheese is melted.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm!
Notes
✔ Make It Spicier: Use spicy andouille sausage or add red pepper flakes.
✔ Make It Creamier: Add ½ cup cream cheese for extra richness.
✔ Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.