Crock Pot Cheesy Sausage

The Ultimate Dump-and-Go Slow Cooker Comfort Meal

Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that requires almost no effort? This Crock Pot Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even brunch gatherings. Just dump the ingredients into your slow cooker, give it a stir, and walk away. A few hours later, you’ll have a cheesy, golden, savory dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready to serve.

Combining frozen hash browns, smoked sausage, cheddar cheese, and a creamy soup base, this recipe delivers big flavor with very little prep. Plus, it’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and requires zero culinary skills to make!

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 4–6 hours on LOW

• Total Time: 4–6 hours

• Yield: Serves 6–8

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Course: Main or Side Dish

• Cuisine: American Comfort

• Keywords: crockpot casserole, dump and go, cheesy hashbrown, sausage and potato, slow cooker comfort food

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (or diced style)

• 1 (14 oz) package smoked sausage, sliced into thin rounds

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for color and a smoky note)

• Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

No need to thaw the hash browns—just dump them in frozen!
Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds and dice the onion if using.

 Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl (or directly in your slow cooker if it’s big enough to mix in), combine:

• Frozen hash browns

• Sliced smoked sausage

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Cream of chicken soup

• Sour cream

• Milk

• Onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika (if using)

Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

 Step 3: Dump in the Crock Pot

Lightly spray the inside of your 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray.
Pour the mixture in and spread it evenly.

 Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover with the lid and cook:

• LOW for 5–6 hours
  or

• HIGH for 2.5–3.5 hours

Do not stir during cooking — let the casserole set and develop that creamy, cheesy texture.

 Step 5: Optional Finishing Touches

• About 15–30 minutes before serving, sprinkle extra cheese on top and let it melt.

• Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is versatile enough to serve any time of day. Try pairing it with:

• A fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for balance

• Biscuits or crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce

• Fried or scrambled eggs if serving for breakfast or brunch

• Hot sauce or ketchup on the side for those who like a kick

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers? Lucky you!

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Cools well and freezes up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot (cover with foil if oven-baking to prevent drying out).

Recipe Variations

This base recipe is delicious as-is, but you can easily customize it based on what you have or your taste preferences:

 Cheese Variations:

• Try pepper jack for a spicy kick

• Use mozzarella for a stretchier, milder flavor

• Add Parmesan for a salty, nutty touch

 Protein Swaps:

• Use crumbled breakfast sausage (cooked first)

• Swap in ham or cooked bacon

• Try shredded rotisserie chicken for a chicken and hashbrown twist

 Add-Ins:

• Mix in frozen peas, spinach, corn, or bell peppers for color and nutrition

• Add mushrooms or zucchini for a veggie-packed version

 Tips for Success

• Do not overcook: The potatoes can dry out or become mushy if left too long. Stick to the cooking times.

• Use shredded or diced hash browns — both work well depending on your texture preference.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the casserole to sit uncovered for 5–10 minutes to firm up before serving.

• Avoid pre-cooked sausage links that are too soft—they can get mushy. Use firm smoked sausage or kielbasa.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings)

These are approximate values and can vary depending on ingredients.