Are you looking for a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and can simmer away all day while you’re busy with other tasks? Look no further than a slow cooker sausage casserole. This hearty, satisfying dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
What is a Sausage Casserole?
A sausage casserole is a type of baked dish that typically consists of sausage, vegetables, and starch, topped with a crispy crust or a layer of melted cheese. It’s a classic comfort food that’s popular in many parts of the world, and it’s easy to see why: it’s warm, comforting, and filling, making it the perfect meal for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
The Benefits of Making Sausage Casserole in a Slow Cooker
While sausage casserole can be made in the oven, making it in a slow cooker has several benefits. For one thing, it’s much easier to prepare: simply brown the sausage and cook the vegetables, then add everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer away all day. This makes it the perfect meal for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
Another benefit of making sausage casserole in a slow cooker is that it’s much more convenient. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a hot, delicious meal that’s ready to eat. This makes it the perfect meal for people who have busy schedules or who don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a slow cooker sausage casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 lb sausage (you can use any type of sausage you like, such as Italian sausage or Chorizo)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 slow cooker (at least 6 quarts in size)
- 1 large skillet
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole
Making slow cooker sausage casserole is easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Browning the Sausage
The first step in making slow cooker sausage casserole is to brown the sausage. To do this, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sausage. Cook the sausage until it’s browned on all sides, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Cooking the Vegetables
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped potatoes to the skillet. Cook the vegetables until they’re tender, stirring occasionally.
Assembling the Casserole
Once the sausage and vegetables are cooked, it’s time to assemble the casserole. To do this, add the cooked sausage and vegetables to the slow cooker, along with the frozen peas and carrots, chicken broth, milk, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
Cooking the Casserole
Once the casserole is assembled, it’s time to cook it. To do this, cover the slow cooker and cook the casserole on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Adding the Topping (Optional)
If you want to add a topping to your slow cooker sausage casserole, now is the time to do it. To make a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole and cover the slow cooker. Cook the casserole for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving the Casserole
Once the casserole is cooked, it’s time to serve it. To do this, scoop the casserole into bowls and serve it hot. You can serve the casserole with a side of crusty bread or a green salad, or you can serve it on its own.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when making slow cooker sausage casserole:
- Use any type of sausage you like: While Italian sausage and Chorizo are popular choices for slow cooker sausage casserole, you can use any type of sausage you like. Experiment with different types of sausage to find the one you like best.
- Add other vegetables: In addition to the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes, you can add other vegetables to the casserole. Some popular choices include diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, and chopped zucchini.
- Use different seasonings: While thyme and rosemary are classic seasonings for slow cooker sausage casserole, you can use other seasonings to give the dish a different flavor. Some popular choices include paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Make it spicy: If you like spicy food, you can add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the casserole. You can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker sausage casserole:
- Overcooking the sausage: While it’s easy to overcook the sausage, this can make it dry and tough. To avoid this, cook the sausage until it’s browned on all sides, but still slightly pink in the center.
- Not browning the sausage: Browning the sausage is an important step in making slow cooker sausage casserole. This helps to create a rich, caramelized flavor that’s essential to the dish.
- Not cooking the vegetables: While it’s easy to skip cooking the vegetables, this can make them tough and unappetizing. To avoid this, cook the vegetables until they’re tender, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
Slow cooker sausage casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. By following the instructions outlined in this article, you can create a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, slow cooker sausage casserole is a great option for a hands-off meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 | 30 minutes | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours 30 minutes |
Note: The nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
What is the best type of sausage to use in a slow cooker sausage casserole?
The best type of sausage to use in a slow cooker sausage casserole is a matter of personal preference. You can use any type of sausage you like, such as classic pork sausage, chorizo, or Italian sausage. If you want a milder flavor, you can use a sweet Italian sausage or a breakfast sausage. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can use a hot Italian sausage or a chorizo.
It’s also important to consider the texture of the sausage. If you use a sausage that is too dense, it may not cook evenly in the slow cooker. Look for a sausage that is made with a combination of pork and seasonings, and has a relatively loose texture. This will help it to cook evenly and blend in with the other ingredients in the casserole.
Can I use frozen sausage in a slow cooker sausage casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage in a slow cooker sausage casserole. In fact, frozen sausage can be a convenient and cost-effective option. Just be sure to thaw the sausage first before adding it to the slow cooker. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or thaw it quickly by submerging it in cold water.
Keep in mind that frozen sausage may have a slightly different texture and flavor than fresh sausage. It may be more prone to breaking apart when it’s cooked, which can affect the texture of the casserole. However, this shouldn’t affect the overall flavor and quality of the dish.
How long does it take to cook a slow cooker sausage casserole?
The cooking time for a slow cooker sausage casserole will depend on the specific ingredients and the temperature of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours to cook a sausage casserole on low heat, and 3-4 hours to cook it on high heat. You can also cook it on a combination of low and high heat, depending on your schedule and preferences.
It’s always a good idea to check the casserole periodically to make sure it’s cooking evenly and not overcooking. You can check it by inserting a fork or knife into the center of the casserole. If it’s tender and the sausage is cooked through, it’s ready to serve.
Can I add other ingredients to a slow cooker sausage casserole?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to a slow cooker sausage casserole to suit your tastes and preferences. Some popular additions include diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and potatoes. You can also add some heat with diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
When adding other ingredients, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you add raw potatoes, you may need to cook the casserole for an additional 30 minutes to an hour to ensure they’re tender. You can also add some extra seasonings or spices to enhance the flavor of the casserole.
Is a slow cooker sausage casserole a healthy meal option?
A slow cooker sausage casserole can be a healthy meal option, depending on the ingredients you use. Sausage can be high in fat and sodium, but you can choose a leaner sausage option or use a combination of sausage and vegetables to balance out the dish.
To make a healthier slow cooker sausage casserole, look for sausages that are low in fat and sodium, and add plenty of vegetables to the dish. You can also use whole wheat pasta or brown rice to increase the fiber content of the casserole. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of cheese and sauce you use, as these can add extra calories and fat.
Can I serve a slow cooker sausage casserole at a party or gathering?
Yes, a slow cooker sausage casserole is a great option for a party or gathering. It’s easy to serve and can be kept warm for a long time, making it perfect for a buffet-style meal. You can also customize the recipe to suit your guests’ tastes and preferences.
To serve a slow cooker sausage casserole at a party, consider setting up a toppings bar with additional ingredients such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions. This will allow your guests to customize their own servings and add their favorite flavors to the dish.
Can I freeze a slow cooker sausage casserole for later use?
Yes, you can freeze a slow cooker sausage casserole for later use. In fact, this is a great way to meal prep and have a convenient meal option on hand. To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
When you’re ready to serve the casserole, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the slow cooker or oven. You can also freeze individual portions of the casserole for a quick and easy meal on the go.