Name: Slow Cooker Sausage Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 1 lb sausage (Italian, smoked, or preferred, sliced); 2 lb potatoes (diced bite-sized); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 –3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Optional: 1–2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); Optional garnish: fresh parsley

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty casserole after a busy day. This Slow Cooker Sausage & Potato Casserole combines tender potatoes with savory sausage in a slow-cooked medley that fills your home with irresistible aromas. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering main, this one-pot dish delivers rich, savory depth thanks to its blend of seasonings and the gentle slow-cooking process. It’s versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables and pairs beautifully with simple sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy, hands-off slow cooker method perfect for busy evenings.
Comforting flavors from sausage, tender potatoes, and savory herbs.
Versatile with optional vegetables and choice of sausage types.
One-pot meal minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste.

Ingredients

Sausage (500 g or 1 lb): Choose Italian, smoked, or your favorite sausage sliced for hearty, savory bites.
Potatoes (1 kg or 2 lb): Diced bite-sized for even, tender cooking and a creamy texture.
Onion (1 medium): Chopped to add mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic cloves (2–3): Minced to infuse aromatic, savory undertones throughout the dish.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and rich, savory taste to meld flavors while slow cooking.
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Provides herbal warmth and complexity to enhance the sausage and potatoes.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste, balancing and highlighting all the ingredients.
Mixed vegetables (optional, 1–2 cups): Carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added color, texture, and nutrition.
Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Brightens and freshens the finished casserole with a pop of green.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the potatoes into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves to release their flavors in the slow cooker. Place these prepared vegetables into the base of the slow cooker, creating a flavorful foundation.
Layer the Sausage: Slice your chosen sausage into thick rounds or bite-sized pieces, then layer them evenly over the vegetables. This layering allows the sausage juices to seep into the potatoes as the dish cooks, enriching the flavor and texture.
Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle the dried thyme or Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper evenly over the ingredients. Pour the chicken broth carefully around the edges to cover the bottom without washing away the seasonings. The broth helps steam and tenderize the potatoes while melding flavors together.
Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow, gentle cooking encourages the potatoes to become tender and the sausage to release its savory essence, harmonizing all ingredients beautifully.
Finish and Serve: Once cooked, gently stir the casserole to distribute the flavors evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired to add freshness and color. Serve warm for a comforting, satisfying meal.

You Must Know

Choosing spicy sausage adds a flavorful kick, while smoked sausage brings a deeper, smoky profile.
Adding mixed vegetables turns it into a colorful, nutritious one-pot meal.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or use a splash of white wine for added richness.
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a crisp green salad to complete your dinner.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve the texture of the potatoes and sausage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or alongside warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices. It also pairs well with steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced plate.

Professional Tips

For even cooking, cut potatoes evenly and avoid overcrowding the slow cooker.
If adding mixed vegetables, add peas towards the last hour to prevent overcooking.
Use quality sausage for the best flavor, and consider browning it briefly before adding for extra depth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?: Fresh potatoes are best to avoid excess moisture, but if using frozen, reduce broth slightly and check doneness earlier.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?: Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add toppings like cheese. Simply follow the recipe as is.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?: Absolutely, prep ingredients and layer in the slow cooker insert, then refrigerate overnight before cooking.
What sausage types work best?: Italian, smoked, or spicy sausage all work well depending on your flavor preference—choose quality for best taste.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?: Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to cook evenly and adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?: Cut potatoes into larger pieces and avoid overcooking; use the low setting for the recommended time frame.