Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of savory sausage with creamy, cheesy potatoes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Imagine coming home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. With simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry or fridge, you can whip up this delightful dish without any hassle. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, is sure to please everyone at the table. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises a comforting dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sausage: Use your favorite type of sausage—Italian or smoked works great. Look for high-quality options for the best flavor.
- Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they hold their shape well during cooking.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a rich flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses if desired.
- Onion: Diced onion enhances the overall taste; yellow onions are a good choice for sweetness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess; if preferred, use cream of chicken as an alternative.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Cheesy Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Dice them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Next, slice the sausage into rounds.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, layer half of the diced potatoes followed by half of the sliced sausage. Sprinkle some diced onions on top.
Step 3: Add Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Pour this mixture over the layers in your slow cooker.
Step 4: Complete Layering
Add the remaining potatoes and sausage on top of the creamy mixture. Finish by layering any leftover onion and topping with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Cook
Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for approximately three hours until everything is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Once done cooking, stir everything gently before serving. Transfer to plates or bowls for everyone to enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Additions Optional: Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes
This Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage and potatoes in advance. Chop the potatoes and store them in water to prevent browning. Prepare the sausage by slicing it, then refrigerate both components separately for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, use the microwave on medium power for about two minutes or heat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Make sure to stir occasionally to maintain even heating.
FAQs for Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes?
To make a delicious slow cooker sausage and cheesy potatoes dish, you will need several key ingredients. Start with your choice of sausage; breakfast sausage or Italian sausage works well. You will also need about two pounds of potatoes; Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked. For added flavor, include one cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack. Additionally, gather half a cup of diced onions, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These ingredients combine beautifully in the slow cooker to create a hearty meal that your family will love. Make sure to prep everything ahead of time so you can simply toss it all into the slow cooker in the morning.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes?
Cooking Slow Cooker Sausage and cheesy potatoes typically requires around 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish. However, if you’re short on time, cooking on high can still yield tasty results. It’s important to check that the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork before serving. Adjusting the cooking time may be necessary depending on your specific slow cooker model, as some cook faster than others. Keep an eye on your dish as it cooks for the best results.
Can I prepare Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare Slow Cooker Sausage and cheesy potatoes ahead of time! This makes it a convenient option for busy weeks or meal prepping. To do this, chop your vegetables and sausage in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. You can also combine all ingredients except for cheese in the slow cooker insert ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, simply add cheese before starting the cooking process. This way, you save precious time while still enjoying a comforting meal.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes?
Absolutely! One of the great things about Slow Cooker Sausage and cheesy potatoes is its versatility. If you’re looking for healthier options, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. For a vegetarian version, try substituting the sausage with plant-based alternatives or mushrooms for an umami flavor boost. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; Gouda or Pepper Jack would add unique flavors. If you’re avoiding dairy altogether, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese altogether for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.
What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes?
When serving Slow Cooker Sausage and cheesy potatoes, consider pairing it with light side dishes to balance out the richness of this meal. A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch to your plate. Alternatively, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans provide color and additional nutrients without overwhelming flavors. For something heartier but still complementary, serve crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping into the cheesy sauce. These sides enhance your meal without overshadowing the main flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes?
Storing leftovers from your Slow Cooker Sausage and cheesy potatoes is quite simple! Allow the dish to cool down completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It’s best to portion out servings so you can easily reheat what you need later on without exposing the entire dish to air each time you want some more. Store these leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage—up to three months works well too! When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it up either in a microwave or on low heat on your stove.
Conclusion
In summary, preparing slow cooker sausage cheesy potatoes is not only simple but also rewarding with its rich flavors that appeal to everyone at home. You only need some basic ingredients like sausage, potatoes, cheese, onions, cream soup, and seasonings for this satisfying meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. The versatility allows substitutions based on dietary preferences while still delivering comfort food vibes that everyone loves. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers throughout the week, this dish proves how easy it is to create delicious meals with minimal effort in your slow cooker!
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Easy Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cheesy Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This hearty dish combines savory sausage with creamy, cheesy potatoes, creating a delightful meal that practically cooks itself. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set this dish in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks. The result is a flavorful casserole that will please everyone at the table. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
– 1 pound sausage (Italian or smoked)
– 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
Instructions
1. Wash and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces; slice the sausage into rounds.
2. Layer half of the potatoes in the slow cooker, followed by half of the sausage and some diced onions.
3. Mix cream of mushroom soup with half the cheddar cheese and pour over the layers.
4. Add remaining potatoes and sausage, topping with leftover onion and cheese.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until everything is tender.
6. Stir gently before serving.
Notes
– For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
– Feel free to substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or opt for plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 15g