This effortless, rich, and ultra-comforting slow cooker casserole combines shredded hash browns, smoky cocktail sausages, cream of chicken soup, and mountains of sharp cheddar cheese.
Yields: 6 to 8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 3 to 4 hours (High) or 6 to 7 hours (Low)
Ingredients
- 1 package (14 oz) Lit’l Smokies smoked sausages (or similar cocktail sausages, cut into bite-sized pieces if desired)
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed or partially thawed for best results)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Cream Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded hash browns, smoked sausages, and 1.5 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese directly into the bowl with the sauce. Toss and stir everything gently until the potatoes and sausages are evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared slow cooker, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the edges are hot and bubbling.
- Add the Final Cheese Layer: Remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and serve warm straight from the slow cooker or scooped onto plates alongside a fresh side salad.