Easy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa with creamy, cheesy hashbrowns. This slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and filling casserole that the whole family will love. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this cozy dish.
INGREDIENTS
- Frozen Hashbrowns: 1 (32 oz) bag, providing the base for the casserole with a tender, potato texture.
- Kielbasa: Diced, adding a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
- Onion: 1 small, diced, offering a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the kielbasa.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded, plus an additional 1/2 cup for topping, creating a gooey and rich texture throughout the casserole.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, adding creaminess and a slight tang to balance the flavors.
- Milk: 1/2 cup, thinning the sauce slightly for even distribution.
- Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup: 1 (10 oz) can, forming the base of the sauce with a creamy, savory flavor.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, minced garlic, and onion powder, to taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a greased slow cooker, combine the frozen hashbrowns, diced kielbasa, diced onion, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 2:
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1 (10 oz) can of cream of mushroom or chicken soup. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and onion powder to taste. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Step 3:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the kielbasa, hashbrowns, and onion in the slow cooker. Gently stir to coat the ingredients evenly with the sauce.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a golden, cheesy crust as it cooks.
- Step 5:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the casserole is heated through, the cheese is melted, and the hashbrowns are tender.
- Step 6:
- Once the casserole is fully cooked, serve it hot. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a more indulgent option, serve with Texas garlic toast. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
Easy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is best served hot, directly from the slow cooker. This hearty dish makes a great main course for family dinners, especially when paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re looking to indulge, serve it with a side of Texas garlic toast to soak up all the creamy goodness.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the casserole in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a little extra cheese on top before reheating to keep it creamy and delicious.
Helpful Notes
This recipe is highly customizable. If you prefer a different type of sausage, feel free to substitute the kielbasa with smoked sausage or even chorizo for a spicier kick. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you’re a fan of crispy toppings, consider transferring the casserole to a baking dish and broiling it in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese crust.
Tips from well-known chefs
Chef Rachael Ray suggests adding a touch of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a bit of tang that complements the richness of the cheese and sausage.
Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends using a mixture of cheeses, such as a sharp cheddar combined with a milder mozzarella, to add depth to the casserole’s flavor.
Chef Jamie Oliver advises garnishing the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness to this rich, comforting meal.