Name: Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (32 oz) bag of frozen hashbrowns.; Kielbasa, diced.; 1 small onion, diced.; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded.; 1/2 cup sour cream.; 1/2 cup milk.; 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom or chicken soup.; Salt and pepper, to taste.; Minced garlic, to taste (optional).; Onion powder, to taste (optional).; Additional 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping.

This Easy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy days. The smoky flavor of kielbasa pairs perfectly with tender, cheesy hashbrowns, all brought together in a creamy sauce. Cooked in a slow cooker, this dish is effortless and delivers a delicious, hearty meal that your family will love. Serve it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or go all out with Texas garlic toast for a truly indulgent experience. Customize it with your favorite seasonings and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner!

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.