This easy crockpot sausage casserole is a simple and hearty meal! With flavorful sausage, tender veggies, and a cheesy topping, it’s a family favorite that cooks itself!
On busy days, I love tossing everything into the crockpot and letting it work its magic. Just one pot to cleanâwho wouldn’t love that? Plus, it fills the house with a lovely smell! đ
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Sausages: These add great flavor and richness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using turkey or chicken sausages. Veggie sausages also work well if you’re keeping it plant-based!
Beans: Butter beans are nice and creamy, but you can easily swap them for cannellini or chickpeas. If you need a lower-carb option, consider using diced zucchini instead.
Tomatoes: The recipe calls for canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, which are perfect for this dish. If you don’t have those, fresh tomatoes blended into a sauce also works. Just ensure you adjust seasoning for freshness!
Herbs: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, a dash of regular paprika with a bit of cayenne will add a similar warmth. Dried herbs can be interchangeableâuse what you have!
How Do I Achieve the Best Texture for My Casserole?
To get that perfect hearty texture, start by browning the sausages. This small step adds flavor and makes a difference in the final dish. Browning the onions and veggies before adding them to the crockpot helps release their flavors too.
- Donât skip browning the sausagesâit’s worth it for the taste!
- When sautĂ©ing veggies, aim for them to be tender but not mushyâabout 3-4 minutes should do.
- Stir everything gently in the crockpot to avoid breaking up the sausage or beans too much.
The slow cooking time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, so donât rush it! Enjoy your warm and comforting casserole when it’s ready!
Easy Crockpot Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 pork sausages (about 1 pound)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup cooked or canned butter beans (or any white beans), drained
- 2 cups canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce (passata or smooth tomato puree)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme or mixed Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy crockpot sausage casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it while you go about your day, and come back to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausages:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, brown the sausages on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. They should get a nice golden color. After that, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but are not fully cooked. This step enhances their flavors!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, transfer the sautéed vegetables to your crockpot. Place the browned sausages on top of the veggies.
4. Add the Sauces and Beans:
Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato sauce, and then add the drained butter beans. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. This mix is what makes the casserole so delicious!
5. Mix It All Up:
Gently stir all the ingredients together in the crockpot, making sure everything is well combined but being careful not to break the sausages or beans.
6. Cook the Casserole:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and let it cook. You can choose to set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the sausages to be fully cooked and the veggies to be nice and tender.
7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, taste your casserole and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, scoop some servings into bowls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy this hearty meal with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a cozy dining experience!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Sausage Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Sausages?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to add an extra hour of cooking time on low or 30 minutes on high. If possible, thaw them first in the fridge to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for the Beans?
If you donât have butter beans, you can use any white beans like cannellini or great northern beans. You could also leave them out entirely for a meatier dish or add in diced zucchini or bell pepper for volume instead!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the pork sausages with your favorite vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. Make sure to check the labels on the sauces and beans to ensure they’re vegetarian-friendly!
