Follow Me On Social Media!
Are you ready for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious? Look no further than this mouthwatering Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole! Packed with savory kielbasa, tender chicken, and creamy cheddar cheese, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a one-pot wonder that will have your family coming back for seconds.
Picture this – your kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheesy goodness while you relax with your loved ones. The magic of the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a rich and indulgent meal that warms you from the inside out. And the best part? Leftovers taste just as amazing, making it a meal prep dream.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy Sunday supper or a stress-free weeknight dinner, this Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole has got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dish that brings comfort and joy to your table.
Quick Benefits
- Creates a rich and indulgent all-in-one meal that is deeply comforting
- Perfect for busy nights as the crockpot does all the work
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making for convenient meal prep
- Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions to suit different dietary preferences
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe Recipe
- Rich and Indulgent Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a creamy and cheesy texture that is both satisfying and indulgent.
- One-Pot Wonder: Perfect for busy days, this recipe requires minimal effort as everything cooks in the crockpot, allowing you to focus on other tasks while still enjoying a delicious homemade meal.
- Comforting and Nostalgic: The savory depth from the smoked kielbasa sausage brings a nostalgic and comforting flavor reminiscent of classic Sunday suppers, making it a perfect dish for cozy family dinners.
- Versatile Options: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients like the kielbasa sausage with your favorite smoked sausage or turkey sausage, making it adaptable to different taste preferences.
- Great for Leftovers: This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, and you can also freeze individual portions for later enjoyment, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
- Midwest Comfort Food Vibe: With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, this dish exudes a Midwest comfort food vibe, perfect for colder months when you crave warming, stick-to-your-ribs meals.
- Family-Friendly Meal: Loved by both kids and adults, this cheesy chicken sausage casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to the table, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe
Main Components
- 450 grams chicken breast, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 680 grams red potatoes, diced into 1.25 cm cubes
- 400 grams kielbasa sausage, sliced into thin rounds
Dairy and Cheese
- 120 millilitres heavy cream
- 250 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
- 120 millilitres sour cream
Sauces and Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 298 grams canned cream of chicken and herbs soup
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Pro Tips for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe
For the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage recipe, consider using smoked turkey sausage or cooked bacon as a flavorful alternative to kielbasa. Ensure even cooking by cutting the red potatoes into uniform cubes and checking for doneness around 5-6 hours on low heat. To save time, prep the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and adjust cooking time if starting from a cold dish.
For a lighter version of this casserole, substitute half and half for heavy cream and opt for reduced-fat cheese. You can also make this recipe dairy-free by using dairy-free cheese, non-dairy cream, and a dairy-free soup alternative while retaining the creamy texture and flavor. Complement the dish with fresh green beans, a side salad, or crusty bread to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and make a satisfying meal that is sure to bring smiles to the table.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Main Mixture
Grease the insert of a slow cooker. Layer diced potatoes, chicken breast cubes, sliced kielbasa, diced onions, and 200 grams of shredded cheddar cheese in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Combine Sauces and Seasonings
Combine cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, whisking until well blended.
Step 3: Integrate Ingredients
Evenly pour the mixed sauce over the ingredients in the crockpot and gently stir to distribute.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 5: Slow Cook Casserole
Cook covered on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 5 hours until potatoes and onions are tender but not overcooked.
Storage Tips
Once you have made the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole, it is essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain its flavors and textures. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. This will help prevent the casserole from drying out and keep it fresh for future meals. If you wish to store the dish for a longer period, consider freezing individual portions. When reheating, gently warm the frozen portions in the microwave or bake them covered in the oven for a delicious meal that tastes just as good as when freshly made.
To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider experimenting with different ingredients. If you do not have kielbasa sausage, you can substitute it with smoked turkey sausage or cooked bacon for a varied smoky undertone. Additionally, if you are looking to lighten the dish, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream and opt for reduced-fat cheese, although the casserole may be slightly less rich. To complement the hearty casserole, serve it with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. This full meal on its own is reminiscent of comforting Midwest dishes, combining classic Southern and Eastern European flavors for a cozy and satisfying dining experience.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have kielbasa on hand, feel free to substitute it with your preferred smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter twist on the dish. This change will still provide a similar smoky flavor profile that complements the other ingredients well.
For those looking to make a dairy-free version of this casserole, you can easily swap out the cheddar cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and cream of chicken soup with dairy-free alternatives. This substitution will help maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish while catering to dietary preferences or restrictions.
To enhance the meal, consider serving the cheesy chicken sausage casserole with fresh green beans, a side salad, or a slice of crusty bread. These sides will complement the hearty and creamy flavors of the casserole, providing a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation of this comforting Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole, serve it in individual mini cast-iron skillets for a cozy and rustic touch. Top each portion with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish. Pair it with a side of garlic toast points or a warm baguette for dipping into the luscious cheesy sauce.
For a fun twist, consider turning the leftovers into handheld appetizers by stuffing the casserole into mini phyllo cups or puff pastry shells. Bake until heated through and the pastry is golden brown for a delightful and portable party snack that will surely be a hit with guests. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a finishing touch that adds a kick of flavor.
FAQs for Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe
Can I substitute kielbasa with a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute kielbasa with your favorite smoked sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.
How can I prevent overcooking the ingredients in the crockpot?
Avoid overcooking by checking doneness at around 5-6 hours on low; cut potatoes into even-sized cubes for consistent texture.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance and refrigerate them overnight before cooking?
You can assemble ingredients in the crockpot insert ahead and refrigerate overnight. Add extra cooking time if starting cold.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese, non-dairy cream, and a dairy-free soup substitute to create a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Conclusion
As you dive into making this delectable Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage casserole, remember that good food not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness, perfect for bringing loved ones together around the dinner table.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients or customizing it to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, the aroma of this creamy and cheesy casserole filling your home will surely create lasting memories. So, grab your crockpot and let the magic of Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage bring joy and comfort to your kitchen and those you share it with.
Cheesy Chicken Sausage Crockpot Recipe
“Creamy, cheesy, and comforting Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Sausage Casserole – the perfect one-pot meal that brings smiles to the table.”
Prep Time20 Minutes
Cook Time360 Minutes
Total Time380 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings6 Servings (One large casserole)
Ingredients
Main Components
- 450 grams chicken breast, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 1 small white onion, finely diced
- 680 grams red potatoes, diced into 1.25 cm cubes
- 400 grams kielbasa sausage, sliced into thin rounds
Dairy and Cheese
- 120 millilitres heavy cream
- 250 grams cheddar cheese, shredded
- 120 millilitres sour cream
Sauces and Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 298 grams canned cream of chicken and herbs soup
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
-
Prepare Main Mixture: Grease the insert of a slow cooker. Layer diced potatoes, chicken breast cubes, sliced kielbasa, diced onions, and 200 grams of shredded cheddar cheese in the slow cooker.
-
Combine Sauces and Seasonings: Combine cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, whisking until well blended.
-
Integrate Ingredients: Evenly pour the mixed sauce over the ingredients in the crockpot and gently stir to distribute.
-
Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese on top.
-
Slow Cook Casserole: Cook covered on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 5 hours until potatoes and onions are tender but not overcooked.
