Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage

This Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole is my big weeknight trick for full bellies with little fuss. The recipe slow simmers tender potatoes with savory chicken breast and smoky kielbasa, all blanketed in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The end result is pure comfort food and makes enough for family or for a few easy lunches.

The first time I tossed these ingredients in my slow cooker was on a cold Sunday when we needed something hearty after soccer. Now even my pickiest kid asks for seconds. The best part is how hands off it is after the chopping.

Ingredients

• Red potatoes: diced into half-inch cubes give a creamy bite and make this a one-pot meal Choose potatoes with smooth skins and no soft spots for best results
• Chicken breast: cut into one inch cubes brings lean, tender protein Check for firm, pink meat without bruising
• Kielbasa: sliced small adds smoky flavor and heartiness Look for kielbasa with natural casing and minimal fillers if possible
• Small white onion: diced creates aromatic sweetness in the base Use onions that are heavy for their size and have no green shoots
• Cheddar cheese: shredded packs melty richness Freshly shred for extra oozy texture
• Cream of chicken and herbs: makes the sauce creamy and flavorful Opt for low sodium if preferred
• Sour cream: lends a nice tang to balance the cheese Go for full fat for best texture
• Heavy cream: adds indulgence and a velvety finish
• Italian seasoning: gives herbal depth and aroma Make sure your blend is fresh for big flavor
• Garlic powder: offers mellow, savory punch Choose a high quality powder without anti-caking agents
• Salt and pepper: bring the flavors together Use kosher salt and freshly ground pepper if you have them

Instructions

Prep the Base:

Toss potatoes chicken kielbasa onions and two cups of shredded cheese in a lightly greased slow cooker Give everything a gentle mix to distribute evenly

Make the Sauce:

In a separate medium bowl mix the cream of chicken and herbs sour cream heavy cream Italian seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper Whisk until completely smooth and creamy

Combine and Assemble:

Pour the sauce mixture over your potato and meat mixture in the slow cooker Stir well so every chunk is coated in cheesy sauce

Top with Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole for that perfect golden layer

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Set your crockpot on low for six to eight hours or high for five hours The casserole is ready when potatoes are tender and onions are silky Be careful not to overcook or potatoes will get mushy

Serve:

Spoon generous portions into bowls and serve hot straight from the crockpot The gooey cheese and flavorful sauce are best enjoyed immediately

I love adding a little extra cheddar on top for the last thirty minutes for that super golden lid My youngest once begged to pack leftovers for lunch and it made me so happy to see how much she enjoyed it all over again

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely then pack into airtight containers It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days If freezing let it cool and then freeze in individual portions Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Yukon gold potatoes instead of reds for extra butteriness Chicken thighs swap in well for chicken breast and turkey sausage is a lighter kielbasa alternative If you do not have cheddar try a blend of Monterey jack and mozzarella

Serving Suggestions

A simple green salad with a punchy vinaigrette balances the richness Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans make great sides A sprinkle of fresh chives or scallions on top adds color and a pop of flavor

Cultural and Historical Context

Crockpot casseroles like this are rooted in American comfort food traditions where convenience and heartiness matter Creamy potato casseroles and cheesy meat dishes have been family favorites for decades Modern twists with chicken and sausage keep them fresh for today’s tastes

Seasonal Adaptations

Try smoked turkey sausage in the fall for a cozier flavor Add fresh spinach or peas before serving for spring greens Swap cheddar for pepper jack in summer for a zingier casserole

Success Stories

My friend brought this to a school potluck and came back with an empty dish Everyone wanted the recipe and I saw three parents texting for it before dessert It became a staple in our rotation after that

Freezer Meal Conversion

Prepare the casserole mixture through the combine step then pack raw into large freezer bags Thaw fully in the fridge and cook as usual in your crockpot Sprinkle cheese on at the end for super fresh flavor

Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite This casserole is sure to become a family favorite with minimal effort

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or andouille for varied flavors.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar cheese melts well and adds great flavor. Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are also suitable options.

→ How do I prevent overcooking the potatoes?

Cut potatoes into even, 1/2-inch cubes and check for doneness towards the minimum cook time.

→ Can I prepare this without a crockpot?

Yes, assemble ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until potatoes are fork-tender.

→ Does this casserole freeze well?

It freezes well. Let it cool, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.