If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, budget-friendly, and feeds a crowd, look no further than this Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole. This hearty, comforting dish requires just a few ingredients, a slow cooker, and minimal prep time. Perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the hassle, this recipe is a go-to dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients for Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole
This dump meal is made with affordable ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package Kielbasa or smoked sausage (I prefer Ekrich sausage for its rich flavor) – Cut into chunks to mix easily with the hashbrowns.
- 1 32 oz bag of frozen hashbrowns – No need to thaw, these go straight into the slow cooker.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds a touch of savory sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – A generous amount of cheese for that rich, melty finish.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Brings creaminess and a slight tang to the casserole.
- 1/2 cup milk – Balances the creaminess and helps the ingredients combine smoothly.
- 1 10oz can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup – This is the base that holds everything together and adds flavor.
Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper, to taste – The basic seasoning that enhances the overall flavor.
- Minced garlic – For an aromatic boost that brings out the flavors in the sausage and hashbrowns.
- Onion powder – Adds another layer of savory taste, complementing the diced onion.
How to Make the Best Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by greasing your slow cooker or using a Crockpot liner to make cleanup easier. This dish is a true dump meal, meaning there’s minimal effort involved in prep time. Just layer everything into the pot and let the slow cooker do the work.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Begin by adding the diced sausage into the bottom of the slow cooker. Choose a high-quality smoked sausage like Ekrich sausage for its rich flavor, which will give your casserole a satisfying, smoky taste. Next, layer in the frozen hashbrowns. You don’t need to thaw them, so simply dump the entire 32 oz bag into the pot. Then, add the diced onion and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom (or cream of chicken if you prefer) with the 1/2 cup sour cream and 1/2 cup milk. Stir these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. For an extra burst of flavor, add minced garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This is your creamy sauce that will hold everything together.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Ingredients
Pour the cream sauce evenly over the sausage, hashbrowns, onions, and cheese. Use a spoon to gently stir the mixture, ensuring that everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Top with Extra Cheese
For an even more indulgent finish, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy crust over the dish as it cooks.
Step 6: Cook the Casserole
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your available time. The slow cooker does all the work, turning the ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, flavorful casserole. When it’s done, the hashbrowns will be tender, and the sausage will have infused its smoky flavor into the dish.
What to Serve with Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole
This meal is hearty on its own, but for a complete dinner, consider serving it with some side dishes. Salad or roasted vegetables would provide a refreshing, light contrast to the richness of the casserole. Texas garlic toast is also a great choice to complement the cheesy casserole with some garlicy crunch. These sides will balance the meal and ensure no one leaves the table hungry.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Days
This slow cooker casserole is ideal for anyone with a busy schedule. You can throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning, set it, and forget it until dinner time. It’s also incredibly affordable, with most ingredients costing $12 or less for a meal that will easily feed a family. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity – it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal for a crowd.
Variations and Customization Ideas
While this recipe is great as-is, there are a few ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to give the casserole a spicy kick.
- Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
Make It Ahead for Busy Weekdays
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it can be prepped in advance. You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, refrigerate it overnight, and simply set it to cook the next day. This makes it an excellent choice for busy families or anyone looking to make meal prep easier.
Conclusion: A Delicious, Easy, and Affordable Meal
This Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole is the epitome of comfort food – cheesy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect dump meal for busy days when you want something easy but satisfying. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a meal that your whole family will love. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a dinner that’s as hearty as it is delicious.
Enjoy this easy, inexpensive, and tasty casserole anytime you need a quick dinner solution that’s sure to please everyone at the table.