Hearty Sausage Potato Casserole

This hearty crockpot sausage casserole has been my go-to recipe for busy weeknights when I need something that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of smoky sausage with tender potatoes and vegetables creates a complete meal that simmers to perfection while you get on with your day.

I first made this casserole when I was looking for ways to stretch our grocery budget during a particularly tight month. It was such a hit that it's now on our regular rotation regardless of the season or budget situation. My children actually cheer when they smell it cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage sliced. The smokiness adds incredible depth to the casserole. Look for kielbasa or andouille for extra flavor.
• 4 potatoes diced. I prefer waxy varieties like Yukon Gold as they hold their shape better during the long cooking time.
• 1 onion chopped. Sweet onions work best as they caramelize slightly during cooking.
• 1 bell pepper chopped. Any color works but red or orange peppers add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes. The liquid and flavor from the tomatoes forms the base of our sauce. Fire roasted varieties add extra flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth. Homemade is wonderful but a good quality store bought works perfectly too.
• 1 tsp paprika. This adds a beautiful color and subtle smokiness that enhances the sausage flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Slice the sausage into half inch coins to ensure even cooking. Dice the potatoes into one inch chunks so they cook through but maintain their shape. Roughly chop the onions and peppers into similarly sized pieces for consistent cooking.

Layer In Crockpot

Start by placing the diced potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot as they take the longest to cook. Add the sausage, onion, and bell pepper on top. This layering method ensures everything cooks evenly.

Add Liquids And Seasonings

Pour the diced tomatoes with their juice and chicken broth over the ingredients. Sprinkle the paprika evenly over the top. No need to stir at this point as everything will meld together during cooking.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours until the potatoes are fork tender. The liquid should have reduced slightly creating a rich sauce that coats all the ingredients beautifully.

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I especially love using smoked turkey sausage in this recipe when feeding health conscious guests. The first time I served this to my father in law who claims to hate one pot meals he went back for thirds and asked for the recipe. That was the moment I knew this casserole was truly special.

Storage Tips

This casserole actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. The potatoes will absorb more of the flavorful sauce making each serving even more delicious the next day. For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Customization Options

The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. Feel free to add a can of drained beans such as cannellini or kidney for extra protein and fiber. Frozen corn or green beans make excellent additions during the last hour of cooking. For a spicier version add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. You can also switch up the flavor profile by using different types of broth such as beef or vegetable depending on what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

While this casserole is a complete meal on its own I love serving it with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For special occasions a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives elevates the presentation. During colder months I often serve this in bread bowls which always impresses guests despite being incredibly simple to prepare.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds great flavor, you can substitute with Italian sausage, chorizo, bratwurst, or even turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Each will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

→ How can I make this dish more filling?

To make it more substantial, consider adding beans (like kidney or cannellini), more vegetables (carrots, celery, or zucchini work well), or serving it over rice or with crusty bread on the side.

→ Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes! You can chop all vegetables and sausage the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the crockpot and turn it on. Perfect for busy weekdays.

→ What can I do if the sauce is too thin?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can either remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate, or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water during the last 30 minutes.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often improve overnight, making this dish excellent for meal prep. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other seasonings?

Definitely! Try adding Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), garlic powder, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.