Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole bubbling away in the slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is the epitome of home-cooked goodness—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Each bite offers tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and a delightful melty cheese finish that warms your soul. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy day, this dish will quickly become a family favorite, allowing you to savor those lazy nights at home, all while it does the cooking for you!
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 large russet potatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In your slow cooker, layer the diced potatoes, smoked sausage slices, and diced onion, creating a hearty base for your casserole.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
- Pour this creamy mixture over the layered potatoes and sausage in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together, making sure the potatoes and sausage are well covered with the rich cream mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover again to allow the cheese to melt into a delicious, gooey layer.
- Before serving, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this casserole based on your preferences—add some colorful bell peppers or swap in different types of cheese for a unique twist. If you love a little heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes. For a creamier texture, you could use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Cooking Techniques
The slow cooking technique is ideal for creating deep, rich flavors as ingredients meld together over time. This method not only allows for impeccable convenience, but also ensures that the potatoes cook to a perfectly tender consistency while infusing every bite with the smoky essence of the sausage and the savory notes from the seasonings.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! You can layer all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if the ingredients are cold.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family night, it’s a dish that welcomes everyone with its hearty aroma and flavors. So, gather your loved ones, enjoy the delightful richness of this casserole, and let your slow cooker do the magic!