This Slow Cooker Ground Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potato Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for those seeking a comforting meal. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, this casserole brings together classic flavors in an easy, slow-cooked recipe. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey): Provides a rich and savory base for the casserole. Pork sausage offers a traditional taste, while turkey sausage is a leaner option.
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes: The potatoes add substance to the dish, soaking up the flavors of the sausage and sauerkraut.
- 1 16 oz jar of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed: Sauerkraut adds a tangy and slightly sour flavor, balancing the richness of the sausage.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor with its aromatic quality.
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional but recommended): Caraway seeds offer an authentic, earthy flavor that complements the sauerkraut.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps to tenderize the potatoes and creates a flavorful broth that ties the ingredients together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (for topping): Adds a creamy, nutty finish to the casserole, melting beautifully over the top.
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Rinse the sauerkraut thoroughly to reduce its acidity, and drain it well.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break up the sausage into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Assemble the Casserole in the Slow Cooker:
- Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker. Start with half of the potatoes, then add half of the cooked sausage, followed by half of the sauerkraut, diced onions, and minced garlic. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- If using, sprinkle the caraway seeds evenly over the top.
- Add the Chicken Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth over the layered ingredients. This will help cook the potatoes and keep the casserole moist.
- Season and Cook:
- Season the casserole with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add the Cheese:
- About 15 minutes before the casserole is done, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted, your casserole is ready to serve. Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.
Tips for the Best Casserole
- Rinsing the Sauerkraut: Don’t skip rinsing the sauerkraut. This step helps mellow its strong tangy flavor, allowing it to blend better with the other ingredients.
- Layering: Layering the ingredients ensures that each bite gets a bit of sausage, potato, and sauerkraut, making every mouthful full of flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as sliced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix if you prefer a bit of heat in your casserole.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free if needed.
This Slow Cooker Ground Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potato Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for cool evenings or when you crave something comforting and flavorful. The combination of sausage, potatoes, and sauerkraut offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, while the melted Swiss cheese adds a creamy finish. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Enjoy!
