If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself, you have to try this Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender sausages nestled in a medley of hearty veggies, beans, and aromatic spices, slow-simmered into a rich, flavorful stew that fills your kitchen with the kind of warmth that makes everyone want to gather around the table. The beauty of this dish isn’t just in its cozy taste but also in how incredibly easy it is to pull together—perfect for those busy weekdays or when you just want something delicious without hovering over the stove.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe is how simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something really special. Each one brings its own unique flavor, texture, or boost of color, making every bite a little celebration.
- Olive oil: Gives the veggies and sausages just the right amount of richness—go for extra-virgin for the best flavor.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the casserole, becoming beautifully soft in the crockpot.
- Garlic: Brings that irresistible aroma and tasty kick that every great stew needs.
- Pork sausages: The star of the show—choose your favorite, and brown them for extra flavor.
- Carrots: Offer sweetness and a cheerful pop of color, plus they’re super tender after slow cooking.
- Celery: Lends a pleasant crunch and gentle earthiness to balance the richness.
- Red bell pepper: Sweet and colorful, it brightens up each spoonful both in flavor and appearance.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): The saucy base that ties everything together with tang and juiciness.
- Tomato paste: Adds deep tomato flavor without making the casserole watery.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses the whole pot with a subtle, smoky warmth that makes the flavors sing.
- Dried thyme: Gives beautiful herbal notes that blend seamlessly with the other spices.
- Bay leaf: Imparts a subtle layer of flavor—just remember to fish it out before serving!
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides richness but won’t overpower the other ingredients or make things too salty.
- Cannellini beans: Creamy, satisfying, and a perfect protein boost for the stew.
- Salt and black pepper: For that final flavor adjustment—don’t forget to taste before serving.
- Chopped fresh parsley: The fresh, herby garnish that finishes everything off with a burst of green.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Start with a little sizzle to build big, savory flavors. Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium, then add your chopped onion. Let it cook until it softens and turns translucent—about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and sauté just a bit longer, until fragrant. This simple step lays a flavor-packed foundation for the entire Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe.
Step 2: Brown the Sausages
Using the same skillet (no need for extra dishes!), brown the pork sausages on all sides for a golden, caramelized exterior. Browning creates a much deeper flavor than tossing them in raw. Once browned, slice them into nice chunky pieces, so every bowl has generous bites of sausage.
Step 3: Fill the Crockpot
Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to your crockpot, then add the browned sausages. Next, pile in your carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, and finally pour over the chicken broth. It might look a little crowded at first, but everyone will become fast friends during the slow cooking process.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Give everything a gentle stir to combine, put the lid on, and let the crockpot work its magic. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or crank it up to high for 3 to 4 hours. By the end, the vegetables will be melt-in-your-mouth tender, and all the flavors will have melded into a hearty, cozy casserole worth writing home about.
Step 5: Add Beans and Finish
About half an hour before you’re ready to serve, stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans, then season the Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe with salt and black pepper to your liking. Let it finish cooking so the beans heat through and absorb some of that delicious broth. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before dishing up!
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley instantly lifts the casserole, adding a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. If you love a little heat, you can add a scatter of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce right before serving for a spicier twist.
Side Dishes
You absolutely can’t go wrong with hunks of warm, crusty bread—perfect for soaking up every drop of the savory sauce. For something extra hearty, serve your Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a side of buttered noodles. Any of these make it a seriously substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try ladling the casserole into mini cocottes or individual ovenproof bowls for a fun, bistro-style dinner. Or, go rustic and serve it family-style in the crockpot itself! For a cozy twist, top with a handful of grated cheese and give it a quick broil for a bubbly, golden finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even more irresistible.
Freezing
This casserole is an ideal freezer meal! Divide into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it—future you will be so glad to find this hidden gem when you need a hearty meal in a pinch.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Or, microwave single servings in a covered bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of broth if it seems a bit thick, and don’t forget a fresh parsley garnish!
FAQs
Can I make the Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe with different types of sausages?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausages if you’d like to switch things up—each variety brings its own unique spin to the casserole.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure to use gluten-free sausages and double-check that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. All the other ingredients should be naturally gluten-free!
What vegetables can I substitute for what I don’t have?
This Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe is super adaptable. Swap in parsnips, sweet potatoes, or zucchini for carrots or celery. You can toss in green beans or peas at the end for more color and freshness.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Definitely. You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just toss everything in the crockpot and go about your day—dinner will be ready when you are!
How can I make this spicier?
For a spicier kick, add chopped fresh chili, a pinch of cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce either during cooking or as a finishing touch to your bowl. Smoked paprika also comes in hot versions if you want an extra boost!
Final Thoughts
If you love comfort food that’s hassle-free yet bursting with rich, savory flavor, this Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe simply can’t be beat. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, makes dinnertime easy, and leaves everyone at the table smiling. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
Print
Crockpot Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty and flavorful Crockpot Sausage Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Loaded with sausage, vegetables, and beans, it’s a satisfying meal that cooks low and slow in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 6 pork sausages (browned and sliced)
- 2 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a skillet. Saute the onion until softened, then add garlic.
- Step 2: Brown the sausages in the skillet, then slice and transfer to the crockpot.
- Step 3: Add carrots, celery, bell pepper, tomatoes, tomato paste, spices, and broth to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Step 4: Stir in beans, season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pork sausages with chicken or plant-based alternatives.
- Add hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
