Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal but short on time and ingredients? Look no further! This 5-ingredient crockpot sausage and potato casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal prep, and delivers a hearty, satisfying dish the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for utilizing pantry staples and transforming them into a delicious and effortless dinner.
What You'll Need:
- 1 lb. sausage (Italian, breakfast, or your favorite kind – mild or spicy!)
- 2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cubed potatoes, sausage, cream of mushroom soup, and milk or cream. Stir gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your potato cubes.
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Stir in Cheese (Optional): During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) for a creamy, cheesy finish.
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Serve: Serve hot and enjoy! This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about this simple yet delicious casserole. We'll tackle variations, substitutions, and troubleshooting tips to ensure your success in the kitchen.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo, andouille, or even vegetarian sausage. The flavor profile will change slightly depending on your sausage choice, adding a unique twist to the dish.
What if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
While cream of mushroom soup adds a rich and creamy texture, you can substitute it with other creamy soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery. You could also make a simple béchamel sauce (a roux-based white sauce) for a homemade touch, although it will add more steps to the process. A simple mixture of milk, flour, and seasonings would also work.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables to your casserole, such as diced onions, carrots, or bell peppers. Add them along with the potatoes and sausage for even cooking. Keep in mind that adding extra vegetables might increase the cooking time slightly.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use lean sausage, reduce the amount of cream of mushroom soup, and increase the amount of milk or cream to adjust the consistency. You can also incorporate more vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini. Consider using reduced-fat cheese as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this casserole?
While freezing this particular casserole isn't recommended (the potatoes can become mushy upon thawing), you can certainly adapt the recipe to be freezer-friendly by using different vegetables that freeze better.
This 5-ingredient crockpot sausage and potato casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness!
