If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, then this Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful herbs, this casserole simmers gently all day to develop a richness that’s both hearty and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal that’s bursting with color, texture, and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though the Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, the ingredients are anything but ordinary. Each component plays a vital role, contributing unique layers of flavor and texture while creating a beautiful medley of color and warmth in your bowl.
- 1 pound smoked or Italian sausage: Choose good-quality sausage for that rich, smoky backbone that flavors the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage perfectly and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Offers a natural sweetness that deepens the stew’s flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring a gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Contributes a slight crunch and bright, fresh notes.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice: Provides acidity and moisture to balance the richness of the sausage.
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and plant-based protein.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Builds a flavorful liquid base that’s not too salty.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Amplifies the tomato flavor and adds depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers aromatic earthiness that pairs wonderfully with sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a gentle smoky heat that enhances the dish’s character.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and heightens all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and bite.
- Optional fresh parsley for garnish: Gives a fresh, bright finish and an extra pop of green.
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and browning the sausage slices for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick sear locks in the sausage’s delicious juices and adds beautiful caramelized flavor to the casserole base. Once browned, transfer the sausage to your slow cooker — your meal is already off to an inviting start.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté them gently for about five minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This step enriches the stew with a fragrant foundation and a slight caramelization that’s worth the extra effort.
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Now, add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker along with the red bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly — this is where all the magic begins as flavors mingle and develop over time.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender and Flavorful
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the vegetables will soften completely, and the sausage will infuse the broth with a mouthwatering depth. When done, taste the casserole and adjust the seasoning if needed — you want every bite to be perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a vibrant, herbal note. This final touch not only looks stunning but also lifts the flavors with a hint of freshness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley as a garnish enhances the casserole’s color contrast and adds a light herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. You might also consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for an extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with comforting staples like creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or warm, crusty bread. Each side absorbs the rich sauce perfectly, so don’t be shy about serving generous portions of any of these to soak up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole over polenta or creamy grits for a slightly different texture and flavor. You can also spoon the hearty mix into baked sweet potatoes to add sweetness that balances the savory sausage. If you want to add some extra veggies, a side of sautéed greens or a crisp green salad rounds out the meal nicely.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain the stew’s rich flavors and prevent the sausage from drying out. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or water helps bring back its lovely saucy consistency.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep or busy weeknights. Portion the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat through evenly without drying out. Alternatively, microwave the casserole in a covered dish in short intervals, stirring between, until piping hot. Always check the seasoning again before serving, as flavors can mellow with storage.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage work well in the Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe and make it a leaner option. Just make sure to brown the sausage properly to develop flavor and prevent it from drying out during slow cooking.
Do I need to brown the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker?
While it’s technically possible to skip browning, searing the sausage first adds a depth of flavor and texture that’s hard to beat. It creates those tasty browned bits that enrich the entire dish, so it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping the sausage for plant-based alternatives or hearty mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and double-check the tomato paste and seasonings for any animal products.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe carries a mild smoky warmth thanks to smoked paprika, but it’s not overly spicy. If you like heat, consider using hot sausage or adding red pepper flakes to taste.
Is it okay to use canned beans?
Yes! Canned beans are perfect for this recipe since they’re convenient and tender. Just be sure to rinse them well to reduce excess sodium and remove the canning liquid for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about coming home to a slow-cooked meal that has been bubbling away all day, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes — simple to prepare, full of honest flavors, and satisfying in every bite. Give it a try, and you might just find your go-to comfort food for chilly evenings and casual get-togethers alike.
Print
Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: British, American
Description
A hearty and comforting slow cooker sausage casserole featuring smoky Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and savory beans simmered together to create a flavorful one-pot meal perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Sausage and Oil
- 1 pound smoked or Italian sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
Canned Goods and Liquids
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until browned. Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Transfer these sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Into the slow cooker, add the chopped red bell pepper, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, low-sodium chicken broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine the flavors thoroughly.
- Slow Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The dish is ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded perfectly.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Serve this casserole over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- For a spicier twist, use hot sausage or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- This dish freezes well, making it convenient for meal prep or leftovers.
