If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug, the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender chicken, flavorful kielbasa, and tender red potatoes, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that melts effortlessly into every bite. It’s the ideal slow-cooked meal that fills your home with incredible aromas and satisfies everyone at the table with its rich, savory flavors and wonderful textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There is something wonderfully simple about this recipe’s ingredient list. Each item plays a key role in delivering layers of flavor, gooey cheese goodness, and satisfying heartiness that make the dish so irresistible.
- Red Potatoes (10, diced into 1/2" cubes): Their waxy texture holds up beautifully during slow cooking without turning to mush.
- Chicken Breast (1 pound, cut into 1" cubes): Lean and tender, it soaks up all the creamy, cheesy flavors.
- Kielbasa (14 oz, sliced): Adds a smoky and slightly spicy kick that balances the richness perfectly.
- White Onion (1 small, diced): Gives an aromatic sweetness that deepens as it slow cooks.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 1/2 cups, shredded): Sharpness and melty texture are critical for that luscious, cheesy sauce.
- Cream of Chicken and Herbs (10.5 oz can): Forms the creamy base infused with herbs to elevate every bite.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess that cuts through the richness for balanced flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Creates a velvety, decadent texture that makes this casserole ultra comforting.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant blend of herbs to lift the flavors.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): A must-have for a subtle garlicky kick without overpowering.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that rounds out and enhances every ingredient.
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Main Ingredients
Begin by tossing diced red potatoes, chicken cubes, sliced kielbasa, and diced onion with two cups of shredded cheddar cheese right into a crockpot that’s been lightly greased. This creates a hearty base packed with protein, veggies, and plenty of cheesy goodness all ready to meld together as it cooks.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken and herbs, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture is the secret to the casserole’s luxuriously creamy texture and perfectly seasoned flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Layer
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the potato and meat mixture in the crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir to make sure the sauce coats each ingredient, setting the stage for a unified casserole bursting with flavor after slow cooking.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This final cheesy layer will melt to form a golden, bubbly crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for about 5 hours. The casserole is ready when your potatoes and onions are tender and cooked through—it’s that easy to get a meal that feels like it took hours of kitchen magic!
Step 6: Ready to Enjoy
Before serving, make sure the dish has thickened nicely, and the cheese on top is perfectly melted. Watch out not to overcook the potatoes or they might become too soft. Now you’re all set to dig into your hearty, cheesy comfort food masterpiece.
How to Serve Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up each serving with a sprinkling of fresh parsley or chives on top. Adding a little green not only gives the eye something happy to look at but also adds a subtle fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some steamed green beans for a crisp, fresh bite. The freshness on the side perfectly balances the creamy, cheesy heft of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins and sprinkle extra cheese before broiling for a minute to get a crispy cheesy top. It’s great for dinner parties or cozy family meals, making everyone feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this delicious casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or weekday dinners.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, freeze the casserole before cooking by assembling it in a freezer-safe crockpot insert or dish. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then cook as usual. Freezing helps you enjoy this dish anytime you need a comforting meal without the prep work.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or milk while reheating helps bring back that creamy texture if it has thickened too much overnight.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa gives a nice smoky flavor, you can swap it out for smoked sausage, chorizo, or even a chicken sausage for a milder taste. Just slice it similarly so it cooks evenly.
Is it possible to make this recipe without dairy?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and substitute sour cream and heavy cream with plant-based versions like coconut cream and cashew sour cream. It won’t be quite the same, but still deliciously creamy!
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach work well when added at the start. They add extra nutrients, color, and flavor to the dish without complicating the recipe.
What’s the best way to tell when the casserole is done?
Check that the potatoes are fork-tender and onions are soft. The cheese should be melted and bubbly on top. If it looks dry, you can stir in a little extra cream and continue cooking a short while longer.
Can this dish be made in an oven instead of a crockpot?
Yes! Transfer the assembled casserole to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about coming home to a warm, cheesy meal that’s been slowly cooking to perfection. This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s effortless, deeply flavorful, and impossible not to love. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this dish promises comfort in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal featuring tender chicken breast, flavorful kielbasa, and tender red potatoes all cooked slowly with creamy cheese and savory seasonings for an easy, delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Meat
- 10 Red Potatoes, diced into 1/2″ cubes
- 1 pound Chicken Breast, cut into 1” cubes
- 14 oz Kielbasa, sliced into small pieces
- 1 small White Onion, diced
Dairy
- 2 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
Other Ingredients
- 10.5 oz can Cream of Chicken and Herbs soup
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Dice the red potatoes into 1/2″ cubes, cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes, slice the kielbasa, and dice the onion finely.
- Combine main ingredients: In a lightly greased crockpot, add the diced potatoes, chicken, kielbasa, onions, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
- Mix creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add sauce: Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the potato and meat mixture in the crockpot. Stir gently to ensure everything is coated.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for about 5 hours. The casserole is done when the potatoes and onions are tender and fully cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep potato cubes intact.
- Serve: Once cooked, give it a gentle stir and serve hot. Enjoy this cheesy, savory casserole as a complete meal.
Notes
- Use red potatoes as they hold their shape better during slow cooking compared to russet potatoes.
- Adjust seasoning including salt and pepper to taste before cooking.
- You can substitute kielbasa with any smoked sausage if preferred.
- For a thicker casserole, reduce the heavy cream slightly.
- Make sure not to overcook to prevent potatoes from becoming too mushy.
