Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Sausage and Potatoes Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the best texture, choose baby gold or red potatoes that are uniform in size. If you use larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch chunks so they cook at the same rate.

Slicing the sausage into thick coins, about 1/2 inch thick, keeps them substantial and prevents them from turning rubbery. You can also use turkey smoked sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

To deepen the smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika. If you like extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce along with the honey chipotle sauce.

For a brighter finish, squeeze a little fresh lime juice over the top before serving, or sprinkle with chopped cilantro. These additions are optional but can elevate the dish.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in a cup of baby carrots or chopped bell peppers along with the potatoes. They will soften during the long cook and soak up the sauce. Add them at the beginning so they become tender by the time the potatoes are done.
• Make It Spicier: For extra heat, add 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes along with the spices. You can also use a spicier honey chipotle sauce or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce before serving.
• Use Chicken Sausage: Substitute fully cooked chicken or turkey smoked sausage for the pork sausage. The cooking time remains the same, and the dish is a bit lighter while still being flavorful. Look for a variety with similar seasoning.
• Sweet Potato Version: Replace half of the baby gold potatoes with peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. They cook at a similar rate and add a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with the honey chipotle sauce. Adjust the cooking time if needed until all potatoes are tender.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Freezer

Freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the potatoes will absorb more sauce. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

This recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals. You can assemble the sausage, potatoes, spices, and sauce in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. You may need to add 30 minutes of cooking time because the ingredients start cold.

Serving ideas

Serve this hearty dish straight from the slow cooker, with a spoon to capture the extra sauce. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the honey chipotle glaze.

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the sauce. For a low-effort side, steamed green beans or roasted broccoli are great choices.

This recipe is also delicious spooned over rice or mashed potatoes, turning it into a saucier meal. For a fun presentation, serve it in warm tortillas with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.

The sweet and smoky flavors work well in a bowl with a side of cornbread. Any way you serve it, it is a crowd-pleasing dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Sausage and Potatoes

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into thick coins
• 2 lb baby gold potatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup honey chipotle sauce

Instructions

1. Place the sliced smoked sausage in an even layer in the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Arrange the halved baby gold potatoes over the sausage, spreading them out so they are in a single layer as much as possible.
2. Sprinkle the paprika and garlic powder evenly over the sausage and potatoes. Use your hands or a spoon to gently toss the mixture so the seasonings coat the ingredients as evenly as possible.
3. Drizzle the honey chipotle sauce evenly over the sausage and potatoes. Stir gently to coat everything with the sauce, making sure the potatoes are well covered.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir once halfway through if possible, but avoid lifting the lid too often.
5. Once the potatoes are tender, turn off the slow cooker. Serve the sausage and potatoes directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving platter. Spoon extra sauce from the bottom over the top.

Contains: milk, gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

27 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.