Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole

This creamy, cheesy slow cooker sausage casserole is pure comfort food magic. With smoky sausage, melty cheddar, and tender potatoes all simmering in a rich, ranch-seasoned sauce, it’s the kind of one pot dinner that basically makes itself – just toss it all in and let your slow cooker do the work while your kitchen starts smelling amazing.

With everything going on in my life, I find I am pulling out my slow cooker more and more often these days so I can get dinner on the table with less stress. Sausage casserole is one of those reliable, satisfying dinners that just works. This version leans into that same cozy, crowd-pleasing vibe but keeps things wonderfully low-effort with a true dump-and-go method.

With no browning, no layering, and no complicated steps, it’s just simple ingredients that come together into something hearty and delicious with zero fuss!

What really seals the deal for me is how satisfying it is. The smoked sausage adds deep, savory flavor; the hashbrowns soak up every bit of that creamy, rich sauce; and the ranch seasoning ties everything together with just enough zip! It’s a slow cooker meal that shows up and delivers, every single time.

If you’re in the mood for more cozy sausage dinners, try my Dublin Coddle, Cajun Pasta with Sausage, or Cowboy Stew.

What You’ll Need

Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

• Southern-Style Hashbrowns – These frozen, diced potatoes are a quick and easy base that will soak up the sauce as they cook. You could also use home fries if that’s what you have on hand.
• Smoked Sausage – Any fully cooked sausage works here: turkey sausage, bratwurst, andouille, chorizo, even breakfast sausage. If you’re using a raw variety, just cook and drain it first before adding to the slow cooker.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds a bold, savory bite, but mild cheddar works too. You can also mix things up with pepper jack or smoked gouda for a twist.
• Onion – Diced onion adds a little sweetness and depth as it softens into the sauce.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – This forms the base of the sauce and gives the casserole its signature texture. Feel free to swap it for cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cheese soup if that’s more your vibe.
• Ranch Seasoning Packet – Adds a zesty, herby kick that balances the richness. You can also use 3 tablespoons of homemade ranch seasoning.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole

1. Add everything to the pot. Put the hashbrowns, sliced smoked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, cream of mushroom soup, and ranch seasoning in the slow cooker.
2. Mix together. Stir until everything is evenly combined and coated. Told you this was easy.

3. Cover and cook. Pop the lid on and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, until hot, bubbly, and the potatoes are nice and tender.
4. Stir and serve. Give it a final stir, then scoop and serve while it’s warm and melty. Sprinkle with parsley if you want a little color!

Recipe FAQ’s

Tips for Success

• Cut the sausage into evenly sized slices so it cooks and distributes flavor consistently throughout the casserole.
• Use freshly grated cheese if you can – it melts smoother and gives the sauce a richer, creamier texture than pre-shredded.
• Give everything a good stir before serving to make sure the cheesy sauce is evenly distributed and the potatoes aren’t stuck together.
• If you’re adding veggies, stick to firmer ones like carrots or bell peppers at the beginning, and save tender greens like spinach for the last few minutes.
• Don’t worry if the edges brown a bit near the end – that’s where the best flavor lives!

Substitutions and Variations

• Add vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, carrots, broccoli, or spinach to make it a more well-rounded meal – just stir in the spinach at the end so it doesn’t overcook.
• Turn it into a breakfast casserole by adding scrambled eggs just before serving, or layering them on top. A sprinkle of crispy bacon takes it over the top.
• For a spicier version, use hot sausage like andouille or spicy Italian. You can also stir in chopped jalapeños or serve it with your favorite hot sauce on the side.
• Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cheese soup if that’s what you have on hand – they all work and each gives the casserole a slightly different vibe.

More Sausage Recipes You’ll Love

• Sausage Rigatoni Pasta
• Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
• Amazing Sausage and Rice Casserole
• Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
• One‑Pan Roasted Peppers, Onions & Sausages
• Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta
• Sweet Potato Hash with Sausage & Apples
• Bisquick Sausage Balls