Cozy Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe

Picture this: the aroma of savory sausage mingling with creamy potatoes, wafting through your kitchen as you cozy up with a blanket and a good book. That’s the magic of this slow cooker sausage and potato casserole. The first time I made this, it was one of those chilly autumn Sundays where all you want is comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. When I lifted the lid and saw the bubbling, golden casserole, I knew I had found something special. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and smile. My family couldn’t stop raving about it, and honestly, I understood why—this recipe is the epitome of cozy comfort food.

Years ago, when I first decided to try my hand at making casseroles, I was intimidated by recipes that required a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. This one was different—it was easy, straightforward, and came together effortlessly. I wish I had discovered it sooner! Whether you’re planning dinner for your family or prepping for a potluck, this dish is a no-fuss crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit. Trust me, it’s so good, you’ll want to bookmark it for those moments when you need delicious comfort on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Busy Days: This casserole takes just minutes to prep before the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Ideal for hectic mornings when you need dinner ready by evening.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry or fridge. No fancy or hard-to-find items here.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy potatoes paired with savory sausage—it’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside.
• Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this dish is always a winner.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. It’s versatile and forgiving, which makes it even better!

What sets this slow cooker sausage and potato casserole apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The smoky sausage perfectly complements the creamy potatoes, while the melted cheese ties everything together in a symphony of deliciousness. It’s also low-effort cooking at its finest—perfect for those evenings when you just want to relax and enjoy a warm, hearty meal without fuss.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Baby potatoes: About 1 pound, halved or quartered depending on size. Yukon Golds work beautifully for their buttery texture.
• Smoked sausage: 1 pound, sliced into bite-sized pieces. Kielbasa or your favorite smoked sausage works great here.
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth).
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for that extra flavor boost.
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (creates that luscious, creamy base).
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (the gooey, melty star of the show).
• Chicken broth: ½ cup (adds moisture and flavor).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (for richness).
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to your taste).
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon (or more if you like a little kick).
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional but adds a nice pop of color).

If you’d like to make this recipe lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based milk of your choice. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for a low-fat version or experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven can work as a stovetop alternative.
• Cutting board: For chopping and slicing your potatoes, sausage, onion, and garlic.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes prep much faster and safer.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring everything together.

If you don’t own a slow cooker, you can try this recipe in an oven-safe casserole dish with a lid and bake it at 350°F (175°C) until the potatoes are tender. It won’t have the same slow-cooked texture, but it’ll still be delicious!

Preparation Method

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Wash and cut the baby potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on how chunky you like them. Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker. Add half of the sliced sausage, followed by half of the chopped onions and minced garlic.
5. Pour half of the cream mixture over the layers, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, onion, garlic, and cream mixture.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
8. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Once done, carefully remove the lid and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
10. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor, and serve warm!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To ensure your slow cooker sausage and potato casserole comes out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Cut potatoes evenly: Uniform slices ensure all the potatoes cook at the same rate and you don’t end up with some hard chunks while others are mushy.
• Sear the sausage: If you have a few extra minutes, searing the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor and add a delicious caramelized texture.
• Don’t over-stir: Resist the urge to stir the casserole while it’s cooking. This can cause the potatoes to break down and turn mushy.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Remember, smoked sausage is already salty, so taste the casserole before adding extra salt.
• Use the right slow cooker size: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

And here’s a personal tip—if you want an extra crispy topping, transfer the cooked casserole to a baking dish and broil it for 2-3 minutes before serving. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian version: Swap the smoked sausage for a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. Add mushrooms or chunks of zucchini for a hearty replacement.
• Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of chili flakes to the cream mixture for some heat.
• Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack cheese for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
• Seasonal touch: In fall, add diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a warm, autumnal vibe. In summer, consider adding fresh corn or cherry tomatoes.
• Lower calorie option: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk and use turkey sausage instead of regular sausage.

One of my favorite variations is adding a handful of fresh spinach during the last hour of cooking. It wilts beautifully and adds a touch of color and nutrients!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This slow cooker sausage and potato casserole is best served warm, straight out of the crockpot. For a hearty meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until hot, or transfer to an oven-safe dish and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prep the ingredients and layer them in the slow cooker insert. Store it in the fridge overnight, and the next morning, pop the insert into the slow cooker and start cooking. It’s a lifesaver for busy mornings!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a satisfying option with balanced macronutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 18g (thanks to the sausage and cheese!)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (mainly from the potatoes)
• Fat: 20g (including healthy fats from the cream and cheese)

The potatoes provide a great source of potassium and fiber, while the sausage adds protein to keep you full longer. If you opt for a lower-fat version, you can reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor. Just be mindful of dietary restrictions like dairy or gluten when choosing your ingredients.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s ridiculously easy to make, this slow cooker sausage and potato casserole is calling your name. It’s versatile, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re customizing the ingredients, making it ahead for a busy weeknight, or serving it at your next family gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Cozy Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

A comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring creamy potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for busy days or family gatherings.

• Author: Lucy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and cut the baby potatoes into halves or quarters.
2. Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
3. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
6. Layer half of the potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker. Add half of the sliced sausage, followed by half of the chopped onions and minced garlic.
7. Pour half of the cream mixture over the layers, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, onion, garlic, and cream mixture.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
10. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The casserole is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly.
11. Once done, carefully remove the lid and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
12. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish and serve warm.

Notes

[‘Cut potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking.’, ‘Sear the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.’, ‘Avoid stirring the casserole while cooking to prevent the potatoes from breaking down.’, ‘Taste the casserole before adding extra salt, as smoked sausage is already salty.’, ‘For an extra crispy topping, transfer the cooked casserole to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20
• Carbohydrates: 25
• Protein: 18

Keywords: slow cooker, sausage, potato casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, potluck recipe