This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is about to become your go-to comfort food, and trust me, you’re going to love it! Picture a savory, hearty dish that practically makes itself while you go about your day. The rich, smoky sausage mingles with tender vegetables and a creamy sauce, all simmered together to perfection. You’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket of flavors with every bite. And the best part? It’s made in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it—no stress, just deliciousness.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Sausage: The star of the show. Smoky, savory sausage adds tons of flavor to this dish. You can use your favorite variety, whether it’s Italian, breakfast, or even spicy chorizo for a kick.
Potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors and become perfectly tender as they cook. Their natural starch makes the casserole hearty and comforting.
Onions: Sweet onions give the casserole a mild, savory base flavor that balances the richness of the sausage and potatoes.
Carrots: A little sweetness and crunch to complement the savory elements. They add a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.
Garlic: Because no casserole is complete without garlic! It infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
Tomato Paste: Adds a rich, tangy base that elevates the flavor profile of the sauce and helps bind everything together.
Broth: Whether you use chicken or vegetable broth, this is the liquid that transforms everything into a smooth, creamy casserole.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prepare the Sausage: Start by browning your sausage in a skillet. This gives it a crispy, caramelized texture and intensifies the flavors. Once it’s browned, transfer it to the slow cooker.
Chop the Veggies: Slice your potatoes, carrots, and onions into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about them being perfectly uniform—this dish is all about comfort, not precision!
Mix It All Together: In the slow cooker, layer your sausage, chopped veggies, and garlic. Stir in the tomato paste and broth. Season generously with salt and pepper, and add any optional spices if you like.
Set It and Forget It: Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it cook for about 6-7 hours. The sausage will release its juices, and the vegetables will become tender and infused with all that deliciousness.
Finishing Touches: Once the cooking time is up, give everything a good stir. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your casserole and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this dish is sure to be a hit.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to [time duration]. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute [ingredient] with [alternative ingredient]?
A1: Absolutely! For instance, if you don’t have [ingredient], you can use [alternative]. It may slightly alter the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it [specific instructions] and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to [time]. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to [time]. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at [temperature] for [time] or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to serve a crowd. Just make sure to use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches.
Q7: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A7: Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or any other variety you prefer. It’ll still taste fantastic!
Q8: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
A8: Of course! Add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas, to make it even more hearty.
Q9: How do I make this dish spicier?
A9: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a bit of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Q10: Can I make this dish in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
A10: Yes! You can cook it on the stove, just simmer it on low for about 45 minutes to an hour until everything is tender and cooked through.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is everything you need for a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. It’s simple, satisfying, and will make your kitchen smell absolutely amazing. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or just enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite. So go ahead, throw everything in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. I promise, you won’t regret it!
Print
Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is an easy, one-pan meal packed with flavor! Made with sausage, vegetables, white beans, and rice, all simmered in a savory broth, this hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
-
For the Casserole:
-
5-6 sausage links, sliced (beef, pork, or chicken)
-
2 small bell peppers, chopped
-
1/2 cup onion, diced
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/2 tsp pepper
-
1/2 tsp paprika
-
2 cups beef broth (low sodium if needed)
-
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
-
2 cups cabbage, chopped
-
1 15 oz can white beans, drained
-
1 cup instant rice
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
-
Instructions
-
Prepare Ingredients:
-
Add the sliced sausage to the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer on the onions, garlic, peppers, seasonings, beef broth, and marinara sauce. Place the cabbage on top.
-
-
Cook:
-
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. About 30 minutes before cooking is done, add the instant rice and white beans, gently stirring them in to thicken the casserole.
-
-
Serve:
-
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.
-
-
Skillet Method (Optional):
-
Spray a skillet with oil and sauté peppers and onions with seasonings. Once softened, add sausage and brown with veggies, then add garlic last.
-
Deglaze the pan with broth, add marinara, and stir. Add cabbage and cook down into the broth. Stir in rice and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Let it sit covered for 10-15 minutes, then serve.
-
Notes
-
This recipe can be made with various sausages like beef, pork, or chicken.
-
If using a skillet, let the casserole sit covered to allow the rice to soften and absorb the flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg