Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole

Looking to warm up your weeknights with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Say hello to my go-to comfort dish: Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole. This recipe is a game-changer, slow-cooking tender red potatoes, juicy chicken breast, and smoky kielbasa in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. It’s the ultimate family-friendly meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the table.

The beauty of this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole lies in its simplicity. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, let them mingle and meld into cheesy perfection, and voilà – dinner is served. I first whipped up this dish on a chilly Sunday post-soccer match, and it’s been a hit ever since. Even my pickiest eater can’t resist going back for seconds. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a meal prep dream. So, grab your crockpot and get ready to indulge in a cozy, cheesy feast that’ll have everyone asking for more.

Quick Benefits

• Provides a hearty and comforting meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights
• Offers versatility with ingredient substitutions, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences
• Freezes well for convenient meal prep and future consumption
• Can be served with a variety of sides to complement the rich and cheesy flavors

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe

• Convenience: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it involves minimal hands-on time after the initial prep work.
• Comfort Food: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender potatoes, chicken, and smoky kielbasa offers a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish, making it a family-friendly option.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients like using different types of potatoes, meats, or cheeses to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for meal prepping or batch cooking.
• Freezer-Friendly: It freezes well, allowing you to have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit with a wide range of tastes.
• Seasonal Variations: You can adapt the recipe for different seasons by incorporating seasonal ingredients or flavor profiles.
• American Comfort: Rooted in American comfort food traditions, this dish combines convenience, heartiness, and classic flavors for a timeless appeal.

Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole

Main Ingredients

• 1 small white onion, diced
• 10 red potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 14 ounces kielbasa, sliced into small rounds
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

Cheese and Dairy

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 10.5 ounces canned cream of chicken with herbs

Seasonings

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Pro Tips for Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole

For optimal results, ensure your potatoes are diced uniformly into 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Check for doneness towards the minimum cook time to prevent overcooking the potatoes.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese if you’d like to vary the flavor profile. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack or Colby Jack can also melt well and add a delicious taste to the dish.

Consider assembling the ingredients in a baking dish and baking at 350°F (175°C) if you prefer a different cooking method. This can be a great alternative to using a crockpot for a change of pace in your preparation routine.

How to Make Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Base Mixture

Grease the crockpot insert. Add diced red potatoes, cubed chicken breast, sliced kielbasa, diced onion, and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese to the crockpot.

Step 2: Blend Cream Sauce

Combine cream of chicken with herbs, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl and whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

Evenly pour the cream sauce over the potato mixture in the crockpot and gently stir to coat.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cook covered on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 5 hours until potatoes and onions are tender, being careful not to overcook to avoid mushy potatoes.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, providing a convenient option for meal prep or leftovers. If you prefer to freeze portions for later use, let the casserole cool down, then freeze it in individual portions. When reheating from the refrigerator or freezer, gently warm it in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce and maintain its creamy texture.

For additional variations, consider using Yukon gold potatoes for a buttery twist, chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a richer flavor, or turkey sausage as a lighter alternative to kielbasa. If you run out of cheddar cheese, a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella can be a delicious substitute. To enhance the meal, serve the casserole with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans, and garnish with fresh chives or scallions for added color and flavor. The versatility of this comforting dish makes it a beloved staple in many households, offering a satisfying and flavorful option with minimal effort.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage recipe, you can make a few ingredient substitutions to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Instead of using red potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes can be a great alternative for a slightly buttery flavor. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can replace chicken breast without compromising the dish’s taste. Turkey sausage is a lighter alternative to kielbasa if you are looking for a healthier option or a different flavor profile.

When it comes to cheese, cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting ability and flavor. However, if you don’t have cheddar on hand, a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella can work well in this recipe. These cheeses will still provide a creamy and cheesy texture to the casserole. Remember to cut the potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking throughout the dish. If you prefer a crispy top, assembling the ingredients in a baking dish and baking at 350°F until the potatoes are fork-tender is a delicious alternative to using the slow cooker.

Additionally, this casserole freezes well, allowing you to make it ahead of time. After letting it cool, portion the casserole into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. By making these simple ingredient swaps and preparation adjustments, you can customize the dish to your liking while still enjoying a comforting and flavorful meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole, consider spooning the mixture into individual baked potato skins for a fun and portable meal option. Simply scoop out the insides of baked potatoes, fill them with the cheesy chicken sausage mixture, top with extra cheddar cheese, and bake until bubbly. Garnish with fresh chives or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and presentation.

Another serving suggestion is to use the cheesy chicken sausage mixture as a filling for grilled cheese sandwiches. Spread the mixture between two slices of crusty bread along with some additional cheddar cheese, then grill until golden and melty. This indulgent twist on a classic grilled cheese is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch option.

FAQs for Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole

Can I substitute kielbasa with a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or andouille for varied flavors.

What are some alternative cheese options to cheddar for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese melts well and adds great flavor. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are also suitable options.

How should I cut the potatoes for this recipe?

Cut potatoes into even, 1/2-inch cubes and check for doneness towards the minimum cook time.

Can I bake this casserole in the oven instead of using a crockpot?

Yes, assemble ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until potatoes are fork-tender.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a delicious and hearty meal made easy with the magic of a slow cooker – Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the tender potatoes and flavorful sausages is a winning combination that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Don’t be afraid to customize this dish to suit your preferences – whether it’s swapping out ingredients for a different flavor profile or adding in seasonal veggies for a fresh twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

So gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let the flavors meld together to create a savory masterpiece that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage is a comforting dish that brings people together over a shared love of good food. Enjoy every bite and savor the joy of a home-cooked meal that warms both the body and soul.