This hearty and delicious Crockpot Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend brunches. Forget hours spent in the kitchen – this recipe leverages the slow cooker to deliver a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish with minimal effort. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own home!
What Makes This Crockpot Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole So Special?
This recipe takes the beloved classic hashbrown casserole and simplifies it dramatically using a slow cooker. The result? A perfectly cooked casserole with tender potatoes, flavorful sausage, and a deliciously creamy, cheesy topping. The slow cooking process ensures everything is evenly heated and infused with flavor, eliminating the need for constant oven monitoring.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 2 (32 ounce) bags frozen shredded hash browns (thawed, excess moisture squeezed out)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or any cheese you prefer!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This initial browning adds a depth of flavor that simply can't be replicated otherwise.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, thawed and squeezed hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and bubbly. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
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Cheese Please: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. This allows the cheese to melt beautifully and create a delicious, gooey layer.
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Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, garnish with chopped green onions (if using) and serve immediately. This casserole is delightful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use leftover cooked sausage?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked sausage is a great way to save time and reduce prep work. Just ensure it's fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of breakfast sausage you prefer – mild, spicy, or even Italian sausage would work well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.
Can I use different cheeses?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. A blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack would add some extra zing!
Is it necessary to thaw the hash browns?
While not strictly necessary, thawing the hash browns will result in a more evenly cooked casserole. If you're short on time, you can add them frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this in a regular oven?
Yes! You can bake this casserole in a 9x13 inch baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Remember to check for doneness, as cooking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole:
- Don't overfill your slow cooker: Leave some space at the top to allow for bubbling and prevent spills.
- Check for doneness: Ensure the casserole is heated through and the potatoes are tender before serving.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or spices to customize your casserole to your liking.
- Make it a meal: Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy this easy and delicious Crockpot Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion.
