Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes And sausage Recipe

Are you in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and sausage Recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender potatoes, beef sausage, and rich, cheesy sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and sausage is Perfect for Any Meal

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to create a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to set it and forget it until it’s time to eat. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or casual weekend meals. Plus, the creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the smoky flavor of sausage makes it a dish that both kids and adults will love.

Detailed Ingredients List with Quantities

To make this delicious crockpot cheesy potatoes and sausage, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz beef sausage: Sliced into bite-size pieces (about ½ inch thick). but you can use turkey sausage as well.
• 3 cans (14.5 oz each) diced potatoes: Drained. Canned potatoes are convenient, but feel free to substitute with fresh potatoes if preferred.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
• ½ can cheddar cream soup: Provides a creamy, cheesy base for the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: I used salted butter, but unsalted will work perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Colby jack cheese works too. This adds the cheesy goodness everyone loves.
• ½ cup chopped onions: I used sweet onions, but white or red onions can also be used.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: For a subtle kick of spice.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

this RECIPE

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some easy swaps and variations:

• Beef sausage: If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well.
• Potatoes: If you prefer fresh over canned, use about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are great options.
• Cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for some heat.
• Onions: Sweet onions add a mild flavor, but red onions will give a sharper taste. You can also add garlic cloves for more depth.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather the following kitchen equipment:

• Slow Cooker: A 4-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the sausage and chopping the onions.
• Strainer: To drain the canned potatoes.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
• Mixing Spoon: To stir and combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Slice the sausage: Start by slicing the sausage into bite-size pieces, about ½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and makes the dish easier to eat.
2. Drain the Potatoes: Open the cans of diced potatoes and drain them in a strainer. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
3. Chop the Onions: Chop the onions finely. Sweet onions add a mild flavor, but feel free to use white or red onions based on your preference.

Assembling the Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and sausage

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker liner with non-stick spray to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
2. Combine the Potatoes and Spices: In the slow cooker, mix the drained potatoes with melted butter, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Add the sausage and Onions: Add the sliced sausage and chopped onions to the slow cooker. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Pour in the Liquids: Add the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Add the Cheddar Cream Soup and Cheese: Add the cheddar cream soup and shredded cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.

Cooking Time and Temperature Guide

• Cover and Cook: Set your slow cooker on high and cook for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. The longer cooking time on low will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water to create a slurry. Add this to the slow cooker an hour before the dish is done cooking and stir well.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy. Check for doneness at the minimum cooking time.
• Skipping the Non-Stick Spray: Don’t forget to spray the slow cooker liner. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.

How to Thicken the Sauce

For a thicker, creamier sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry as mentioned above. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth by half or add more cheese towards the end of cooking.

Best Toppings for Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and sausage

To enhance the flavor and presentation of this dish, consider adding some of the following toppings:

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a tangy contrast to the rich, cheesy sauce.

Creative Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a Main Dish: This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own as a main course.
• Pair with a Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the cheesy potatoes and sausage.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe. Peel and dice them into small, even pieces before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots can add color and additional nutrition to the dish. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the sausage and onions.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

This Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes and sausage Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful meals that are easy to make. With its rich, cheesy sauce, tender potatoes, and savory sausage, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, the flexibility of this recipe means you can easily customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

conclusion

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