If you’re searching for an easy and satisfying slow cooker meal, this Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Featuring hearty kielbasa sausage, creamy sauce, golden hashbrowns, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekend dinners.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly and uses classic pantry staples you likely have on hand. Plus, since it’s cooked in the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, freeing up valuable time for the rest of your day.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole
- Effortless slow cooker recipe – no fuss, no constant checking
- Family-friendly flavors – creamy, cheesy, savory
- Feeds a crowd – great for gatherings or leftovers
- Adaptable – swap kielbasa for other smoked sausage or even ground beef
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this easy casserole:
Main Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Extra 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat with butter to help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Place the diced kielbasa sausage, frozen hashbrowns, diced onion, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese directly into the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, condensed soup, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and minced garlic until smooth.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the kielbasa and hashbrowns in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
Step 6: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, until the hashbrowns are tender and the casserole is bubbly and golden around the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool slightly for easier serving. Pair it with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic toast for a complete and comforting meal.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Make it spicy – add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce
- Try different cheese – Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack add unique flavors
- Use turkey kielbasa – for a lighter option
- Bake instead – transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish in a 325°F oven until hot throughout.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 980mg
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole combines rich, creamy textures with hearty sausage and classic hashbrowns in a dish that is truly comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for a stress-free family meal or to serve a hungry crowd.
Save this recipe to your favorites, and don’t forget to check out even more comforting slow cooker meals and classic American dishes in our free recipe eBook:
