If you are looking for a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself, then this Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe is absolutely your new best friend. Imagine tender chunks of sausage mingling effortlessly with soft potatoes, sweet carrots, and bright peas, all bathed in a rich, herby tomato broth that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This dish is not only a cinch to prepare but delivers on every level—from texture to flavor—making it the perfect cozy dinner for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, each bringing its unique touch of flavor, color, or texture to create a dish that’s balanced and inviting. You don’t need anything fancy to make this casserole shine—just fresh, wholesome components.
- Sausage (1 lb / 450g): Choose pork, chicken, or turkey sausage to provide a flavorful protein base with just the right amount of fattiness.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when slow-cooked.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, aromatic punch that wakes up the other flavors.
- Baby carrots (1 ½ cups, sliced): Offer a gentle crunch and sweetness to balance the savory notes.
- Potatoes (1 ½ cups, diced): Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes make a silky, tender bed for the casserole.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, undrained): Provide acidity and juiciness to bind all the ingredients beautifully.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Enhances the savory base with a rich liquid that helps simmer everything to tender perfection.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Lends an earthy herbaceous note that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Adds Mediterranean warmth and depth.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Gives a subtle smoky or sweet edge, depending on your choice.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to brighten and balance the casserole’s flavors.
- Frozen peas (1 cup): Stirred in near the end, they add a fresh pop of color and slight sweetness.
- Shredded cheese (1 cup, cheddar or mozzarella, optional): For a melty, gooey topping that adds indulgence.
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Start by slicing whole sausages into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and bite-sized portions. If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, just slice and set aside—easy!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage pieces until beautifully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Breaking them into smaller pieces while cooking helps develop those complex caramelized flavors that really make the dish sing.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned sausage into your slow cooker. Then add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Give everything a good stir, cover the slow cooker, and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours. Alternatively, if time is tighter, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is tender vegetables and fully cooked, juicy sausage melding together.
Step 5: Add the Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas for a burst of green freshness and slight sweetness. Let them cook just enough to thaw and soften without losing their bite.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Topping
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Cover the slow cooker so the cheese melts into a creamy, irresistible blanket over the casserole.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Before diving in, stir the casserole gently to mix in the peas and melted cheese. Spoon generous portions onto plates and get ready to savor each comforting bite of this fantastic Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing brings this casserole to life quite like some thoughtfully chosen garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds lively color and a burst of fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory richness. For a final touch, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add creaminess or a touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
This sausage casserole is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls are fantastic for mopping up the luscious sauce. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing, acidic counterpoint, making your meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or shake up your usual routine? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins or shallow bowls for a charming single-serve presentation. Layer it over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to stretch it into a more substantial feast. Adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving gives a lovely textural contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe means you get to enjoy those cozy flavors an extra time or two. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may even deepen overnight!
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot all the way through. If the casserole seems thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up as it warms.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Pork, chicken, or turkey sausage all work well and bring slightly different flavors and fat contents, so feel free to choose based on your taste or dietary preference.
Do I need to brown the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker?
While browning adds more flavor and texture, you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry. Just be mindful that the flavor may be a bit milder, but the slow cooking will still make everything tender and tasty.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as vegetables release more moisture.
Is it okay to add cheese to the Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe?
Yes, adding shredded cheese near the end adds a wonderful creamy layer that complements the savory ingredients perfectly. Cheddar and mozzarella both melt beautifully for a gooey finish.
What can I serve with this sausage casserole for a balanced meal?
This casserole pairs nicely with fresh green salads, steamed vegetables, or simple grains like rice or quinoa to round out the meal without overwhelming the heartiness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s easy to put together but big on flavor and comfort, this Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your go-to rotation. It’s nourishing, flexible, and simply downright delicious. Gather your ingredients, set it in the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. You’ll be so glad you tried it!
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Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring savory sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy days, it uses a slow cooker to meld flavors deeply while you go about your day. With simple ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and frozen peas, it’s a delicious, easy-to-prepare dish that can be customized with your choice of sausage and topped with melted cheese for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb (450g) sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey – your choice)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups baby carrots, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 1 cup frozen peas
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella – optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: If using whole sausages, slice them into 1-inch pieces to allow even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage pieces until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking them up into smaller pieces as they cook. If using pre-cooked sausage, slice and skip this step.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned sausage or uncooked sliced sausage into the slow cooker, setting the base for your casserole.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker over the sausage.
- Cook the Casserole: Stir all ingredients gently to combine. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is thoroughly cooked through.
- Add Frozen Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in frozen peas. Cover and continue to cook for the remaining time to heat the peas through without overcooking.
- Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the casserole 10-15 minutes before serving. Cover the slow cooker to allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the casserole to mix the melted cheese and ingredients evenly. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage depending on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; just refrigerate and cook in the slow cooker the next day.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
