If you are craving a dish that wraps comfort, heartiness, and a burst of flavor into one easy meal, look no further than this Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole. Imagine tender potatoes mingling with savory kielbasa, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts together perfectly during slow cooking. It’s a warm, inviting, and utterly satisfying casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home, delivering cozy vibes with every delightful bite.

Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of texture and flavor in this casserole. Each item plays its role in creating layers of taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Hash browns (32 oz.): The foundation of the casserole, offering a crispy-tender potato texture and body to the dish.
Kielbasa sausage (14 oz.): Adds a smoky, rich flavor and a meaty chew that complements the softness of the potatoes.
Small onion (diced): Brings a touch of sweetness and a hint of bite to brighten the overall flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 1/2 cups): Creates a luscious, melty layer that binds everything together and adds a sharp, creamy element.
Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Provides a velvety base that makes the casserole wonderfully moist and flavorful.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds subtle tanginess and richness for depth and creaminess.
Creole seasoning (1 tsp): Brings a warm, spicy kick that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural goodness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Combine Key Ingredients

Start by greasing your slow cooker and layering in the hash browns, kielbasa, diced onions, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Some cooks like to sauté the sausage and onions ahead of time for an extra flavor boost, but it’s perfectly fine to add them raw here. If you decide on fresh diced potatoes in place of hash browns, be prepared to add some additional cooking time to ensure they soften fully.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is the secret to the casserole’s creamy texture and rich taste. Once combined, pour it evenly over the layered potato and sausage mixture, then gently stir everything together to distribute the flavors.

Step 3: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the slow cooker mixture. This topping will melt and form a golden, cheesy crust that makes every bite irresistibly good.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the onions are soft but not mushy. Slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully and delivers a comforting, hearty casserole that’s perfect straight from the crockpot.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal lift against the creamy richness of the casserole. For a little extra zing, a dash of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top can also work wonders.

Side Dishes

Since the casserole is quite hearty on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables balances the meal nicely. Simple steamed broccoli or a refreshing cucumber salad offers crunchy contrast and keeps things light.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, set the Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole in the slow cooker right at the table so everyone can serve themselves and enjoy the homestyle warmth. Alternatively, spoon it into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole, wrap any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it simple to enjoy a ready-made comforting meal the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat in the microwave on medium power until warm all the way through, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can also warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, which helps preserve the cheesy topping’s texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in the Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional for its smoky flavor and firm texture, you can use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage depending on your preference. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.

Do I have to use cream of mushroom soup?

No, you can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you’d like, but cream of mushroom gives the dish a lovely earthy depth that complements the flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare this casserole without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Is it okay to use fresh diced potatoes instead of hash browns?

Definitely! Just keep in mind fresh potatoes will take longer to cook, so you may need to increase the slow cooker time by an hour or so to ensure they’re fully soft.

How spicy is this casserole with the creole seasoning?

The creole seasoning adds a gentle warmth without making the dish overly spicy. You can adjust the amount or swap for a milder seasoning blend based on your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s wonderfully simple yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for cozy nights or feeding a hungry crowd. Give this recipe a try soon—you’ll love how the ease of the slow cooker combined with such hearty ingredients can create something truly special and comforting.