A Hearty, Hands-Off Comfort Meal
When you need a warm, filling dinner that practically cooks itself, Crockpot Sausage & Potatoes is a timeless favorite. Smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings slow-cook into a rustic one-pot meal that’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for busy weekdays.
The slow cooker does all the work while the flavors blend beautifully and the potatoes soak up every bit of that rich, seasoned goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ⏳ Minimal prep time
- 💰 Simple, affordable ingredients
- 🥔 Hearty and filling
- 🥘 Great for meal prep
- 🌶 Easy to customize
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds smoked sausage (kielbasa or turkey sausage), sliced into rounds
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (red or gold), halved
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional but recommended)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Wash and halve the baby potatoes. If using larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized chunks.
Slice the sausage into bite-sized rounds.
Chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
Keeping everything similar in size ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Crockpot
Lightly grease the crockpot insert.
Add potatoes first, spreading them evenly across the bottom.
Layer sausage over the potatoes.
Top with onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
Placing the potatoes on the bottom helps them absorb the flavorful juices.
Step 3: Season
Drizzle olive oil over the mixture.
Sprinkle paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
Seasoning now allows the flavors to infuse deeply as everything slow cooks.
Step 4: Add Liquid
Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients.
You want enough liquid to create steam and prevent sticking — but not so much that it becomes soupy.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- LOW: 6–7 hours
- HIGH: 3–4 hours
The dish is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the sausage is heated through.
Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as that releases heat and extends cooking time.
Step 6: Optional Cheesy Finish
During the last 15–20 minutes, sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top. Cover and allow it to melt.
This step turns the dish into a comforting, casserole-style meal.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Gently stir before serving to distribute flavors.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness.
Serve hot, straight from the crockpot.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is easy to customize:
- 🥕 Add sliced carrots for natural sweetness
- 🥬 Stir in green beans during the last hour
- 🌶 Use spicy sausage for heat
- 🥛 Add a splash of cream for richness
- 🔥 Sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra kick
Tips for Best Results
- Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking
- Don’t overcrowd your slow cooker
- Use smoked sausage for deeper flavor
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (without cheese for best texture).
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Sausage & Potatoes is comfort food at its simplest — hearty, flavorful, and effortless. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping meals for the week, this slow cooker classic delivers reliable, cozy satisfaction every time.
Set it, forget it, and come home to a kitchen that smells absolutely amazing. 🥔✨
