Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra layer of rich flavor, you can lightly sear the sliced smoked sausage in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

This optional step caramelizes the edges of the sausage, locking in the savory juices and adding a wonderful depth of flavor to the final dish. If you choose to do this, you can also toss the potatoes in the same skillet for a minute to pick up any delicious browned bits.

If you prefer a thicker, gravy-like consistency for the broth, you can easily stir in a simple cornstarch slurry during the last thirty minutes of cooking.

Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, pour it into the bubbling slow cooker, and turn the heat to high. This will quickly transform the thin broth into a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the potatoes.

Variations

• Spicy Style: Use a spicy smoked sausage or andouille, and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potatoes for a bold kick.
• Cheesy Potato Bake: Sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top during the last fifteen minutes of cooking, letting it melt completely.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Allow any leftover sausage and potatoes to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before storing. Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator.

The flavors will continue to develop and meld overnight, making the leftovers taste even better the next day. This dish keeps well and makes for a convenient and satisfying meal later in the week.

You can easily prep the ingredients a day in advance to save time. Dice the potatoes and slice the sausage, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator overnight.

In the morning, simply place the prepped potatoes and sausage into the slow cooker, pour in the broth, cover, and set the timer. This makes your morning routine incredibly quick and effortless.

Serving ideas

This hearty slow cooker dish is a complete, satisfying meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it hot in shallow bowls alongside crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or biscuits to soak up every drop of the delicious, smoky broth. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp, bright contrast to the rich and comforting flavors of the dish.

For a touch of color and freshness, you can garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions before serving. If you enjoy a bit of contrast, offer some grainy mustard or hot sauce on the side. These simple additions allow everyone to customize their portion to their own taste, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 15 minCook 4 hRest 10 minTotal 4 h 25 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb seasoned potatoes, diced
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup broth

Instructions

1. Place the seasoned diced potatoes and sliced smoked sausage into the slow cooker bowl, spreading them out evenly.
2. Pour the broth gently over the sausage and potatoes in the slow cooker bowl. Stir the mixture smoothly to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the broth is bubbling.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

340

Protein

11 g

Carbohydrates

26 g

Fat

21 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

820 mg

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