As the colder months roll in, nothing beats the cozy, comforting embrace of a warm, homemade casserole. This Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole ticks all the boxes for a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With tender sausages, baby potatoes, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish will have your home smelling amazing all day long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Serves 3: Perfect for a small family or meal prepping for the week.
- 435 Calories per serving: A balanced meal that is filling and satisfying without being overly indulgent.
- 28.8g of Protein per serving: This dish is protein-rich, making it a great option for those looking to stay full and fueled throughout the day.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 reduced-fat pork sausages: Lower in fat but still packed with flavor, these sausages are the star of the dish.
- 500g baby potatoes, halved: These small, tender potatoes add heartiness to the casserole.
- 1 red onion, roughly sliced: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 small carrots, sliced into rounds: Provides sweetness and texture, complementing the savory sausages.
- 400ml beef stock + 1 extra stock pot or cube: The beef stock creates a rich, flavorful base for the casserole.
- 2 tbsp tomato purée: Adds a slight tanginess and richness to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp dried thyme: A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with the sausages.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A dash of this adds a punch of umami and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with water: This will help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Brown the sausages:
Start by heating a pan over high heat and spraying it generously with cooking spray. Add your sausages and fry them for a few minutes, turning them occasionally to brown all sides. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage—just get a nice color on the outside. - Prepare the slow cooker:
In your slow cooker, combine the browned sausages, onions, carrots, and potatoes. These veggies will cook down beautifully, soaking up all the savory juices from the sausages and stock. - Add the flavor base:
To the slow cooker, add the thyme, tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and both the beef stock and the extra stock pot or cube. This combination creates a deeply flavorful and rich sauce that ties the whole casserole together. Season with a pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper. - Cook low and slow:
Now it’s time to let the slow cooker work its magic. Cook the casserole on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours. The slow, gentle heat will tenderize the sausages and vegetables, allowing all the flavors to meld together. - Thicken the sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornflour mixture. This step will help thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious, silky consistency. Let it cook for the remaining 30 minutes to achieve the perfect texture. - Serve and enjoy:
After the sauce has thickened, your Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is ready to serve! Enjoy it as is, or pair it with some extra veggies or your favorite side. For an extra indulgent touch, serve it with plenty of crusty bread to soak up that rich, flavorful sauce—trust us, you’ll want every drop.
Why This Casserole is a Cold-Weather Essential
This sausage casserole is the ultimate fall and winter comfort food. The combination of sausages, potatoes, and veggies cooked in a savory, thickened sauce makes it hearty and filling without being too heavy. Plus, since it’s made in a slow cooker, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a fully cooked, delicious dinner—ideal for busy days.
Extra Tips:
- For extra flavor, try using herbed sausages or even adding a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors will only improve as they sit. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Vegetarian option: Simply swap the sausages for your favorite plant-based alternative and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a veggie-friendly version.
Final Thoughts:
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole is a no-fuss, hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you serve it on its own, with vegetables, or accompanied by crusty bread, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen as the weather turns cooler.
So, grab your slow cooker, set it up, and let this casserole fill your home with delicious aromas all day long. Don’t forget to let us know how you enjoyed it!
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