Sausage and hash brown casserole is a beloved dish, perfect for brunch, a comforting weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleasing holiday side. But who has time to fuss with the oven when you can achieve the same delicious results in your trusty crock pot? This recipe takes all the creamy, cheesy, sausage-y goodness and simplifies it for effortless cooking. Get ready for a dish that's as easy as it is delicious!
What Makes This Crock Pot Sausage and Hash Brown Casserole So Special?
This recipe isn't just about convenience; it's about maximizing flavor and texture. By slow-cooking the casserole, the potatoes become incredibly tender, absorbing all the rich flavors of the sausage and cheese. The crock pot method also helps prevent the casserole from becoming dry, ensuring a moist and satisfying experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns (thawed, or use fresh – see notes below)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cooked sausage, thawed hash browns, and chopped onion.
- Add Soups and Milk: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of potato soup, and milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the hash browns are tender and heated through.
- Cheese it Up: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Allow the cheese to melt and slightly brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes! If using fresh hash browns, you may want to slightly sauté them before adding them to the slow cooker to help them cook evenly. You may also need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh potatoes may take longer to cook through.
What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?
You can use any type of breakfast sausage you prefer – mild, spicy, or even a breakfast sausage with cheese or peppers.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in your slow cooker the night before and cook it on low the next morning. Just add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Consider adding diced bell peppers, chopped broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
How can I make this casserole even cheesier?
Add another 1/2 cup of your favorite shredded cheese, or experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. Consider adding some shredded Mexican blend for a spicier kick.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad, some scrambled eggs, or even some crispy bacon.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crock Pot Sausage and Hash Brown Casserole:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked hash browns can become dry and mushy. Start checking for doneness around the 6-hour mark on low.
- Stir occasionally: Stirring the casserole halfway through the cooking process helps ensure even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste the casserole before adding the cheese and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
This Crock Pot Sausage and Hash Brown Casserole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple steps, delicious flavors, and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So ditch the oven and embrace the slow-cooker magic! Enjoy!
