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Crockpot Cheesy Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe – Easy Smoked Sausage Dinner

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This hearty crockpot casserole features creamy potatoes, smoky sausage, and gooey cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner. With simple prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 14 oz smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Green onions, sliced (for topping, optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch rounds. Shred the cheddar cheese if using a block. Chop green onions for garnish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, and salt & pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Spray the crockpot with non-stick spray. Layer half the potatoes in the bottom, top with half the sausage, then half the cheese, and spoon half the creamy mixture over the top. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sausage, cheese, and sauce.
  4. Add cooked bacon bits between layers if using.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and casserole is bubbling.
  6. Once cooked, gently stir to mix some cheese and sauce throughout. Sprinkle with extra cheese and green onions. For a crispy cheese finish, broil the insert (if oven-safe) for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to thicken.

Notes

For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and Greek yogurt. Add extra veggies like peas or bell peppers for more nutrition. Make ahead by prepping the night before and refrigerating the insert. For a gluten-free casserole, ensure sausage and bacon are certified gluten-free. Let the casserole rest before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, cheesy potato casserole, loaded potatoes, smoked sausage, slow cooker, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/crockpot-cheesy-loaded-potato-casserole-recipe-easy-smoked-sausage-dinner/