Slow Cooker Hashbrown and Kielbasa Casserole
Introduction
Busy weeknights call for meals that practically cook themselves—and this dump-style hashbrown and kielbasa casserole is a creamy, cheesy classic that never fails. For less than $10, you get a hearty dish that serves a crowd with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Loaded with melty cheddar, smoky sausage, and tender hashbrowns, it’s the kind of cozy dinner that brings everyone back for seconds. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, pair it with some buttery Texas garlic toast and call it a feast!
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those “set it and forget it” meals that delivers on all fronts: cheap, satisfying, and universally loved. It reminds me of the kind of comfort food I lean on, just like Easy Turkey Wings or a Tomato Skillet with Okra—simple, nostalgic, and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns
- 1 package kielbasa, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup additional shredded cheese (for topping)
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (to taste)
Instructions
1. Layer the Base
Grease the inside of your slow cooker. Add hashbrowns, diced kielbasa, onion, and 2 cups of cheddar. Stir lightly to combine.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream soup, milk, sour cream, and seasonings of choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder). Mix until smooth.
3. Assemble and Cook
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the hashbrown mixture in the slow cooker. Stir gently to distribute. Top with ½ cup more shredded cheese.
4. Cook
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until hot and bubbly.
- Serve with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or garlic toast for a full meal.
Tips for Success
- Swap proteins: Try smoked turkey sausage, diced chicken, or veggie sausage.
- Cheese choices: Mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for variety.
- Add-ins: Try diced bell peppers, green onions, or frozen corn for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve this casserole with:
- A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted green beans or broccoli
- Texas garlic toast (yes, please)
- Or a refreshing drink like Blueberry Lemonade
Need more cozy meal inspiration?
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave in portions or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is the kind of low-effort, high-reward dinner that deserves a permanent place in your recipe rotation. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or potluck dinner, it’s the comfort food that never disappoints.
Tried it? Share your twist and tag @chefmaniac—we’d love to see what you serve it with!
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