This Kielbasa and Hash Browns Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a dump-and-go recipe that’s not only budget-friendly but also hearty enough to feed a crowd. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in your slow cooker, making it a hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.
What’s So Great About This Recipe?
- Easy to Make: Dump the ingredients into the slow cooker, stir, and let it work its magic.
- Budget-Friendly: At about $12, this meal stretches to feed a large family or group.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and filled with hearty sausage and potatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or Texas garlic toast for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 package Kielbasa or smoked sausage (Ekrich is recommended), cut into chunks
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash browns
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (plus ½ cup for topping)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom or chicken soup
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder (to taste)
How to Make It
1. Prep the Slow Cooker
- Grease your slow cooker or use a crockpot liner for easy cleanup.
2. Combine Main Ingredients
- Add the chunks of kielbasa, frozen hash browns, diced onion, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker.
3. Mix the Creamy Base
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom or chicken soup, milk, sour cream, and seasonings (salt, pepper, minced garlic, and onion powder). Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
4. Pour Over the Ingredients
- Pour the sauce evenly over the kielbasa and hash browns in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
5. Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of gooey goodness.
6. Cook
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the hash browns are tender and the casserole is bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or Texas garlic toast for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Seasoning: Add paprika or Cajun seasoning for a little extra kick.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack to change up the flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Crispier Edges: If you prefer a slightly crispy top, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This casserole is a lifesaver on busy days. It’s the kind of meal you can toss together in the morning and come home to a house filled with the comforting aroma of dinner already made. The combination of kielbasa, creamy sauce, and melted cheese over hearty hash browns is both nostalgic and satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Veggies: Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a burst of flavor and color.
- Garlic Bread or Texas Toast: Add a slice of warm, buttery bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Hash Browns Casserole is the definition of a no-fuss, comforting family meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it out today and watch it disappear from the table!
