Are you tired of coming home to a bland, uninspiring dinner after a long day? Look no further! Slow cooker sausage recipes are here to save the day. Not only do they require minimal effort and attention, but they also result in hearty, comforting meals that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
From classic sausage and peppers to more adventurous sausage-based stews and curries, we’ve rounded up 20 of our favorite slow cooker sausage recipes to help you power through busy weeknights. Whether you’re a saucy fan or a spice lover, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection.
So why wait? Get cooking with these flavorful slow cooker sausage recipes and enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and culinary delight!
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this hearty, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage links
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage links, bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) / 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Creamy Slow Cooker Sausage Pasta
This recipe is a hearty and comforting twist on traditional pasta dishes. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich and creamy sausage pasta dinner with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the slow cooker. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this comforting, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight meal. This slow cooker recipe combines smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and savory vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, potatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and thyme. Pour mixture over ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and White Bean Stew
A hearty and comforting slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, onions, garlic, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cannellini beans to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage Soup
This comforting slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of juicy sausage, tender cabbage, and aromatic spices for a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a chilly day or a busy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, and cabbage.
2. Pour in chicken broth, water, and caraway seeds.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Lentil Curry
Slow Cooker Sausage and Lentil Curry Recipe
A hearty and flavorful curry that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker recipe combines juicy sausage with tender lentils and a blend of aromatic spices. Let the slow cooker do the work while you relax!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sausage, lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Sausage and Kale Stew
Perfect for a chilly day, this slow cooker stew combines savory sausage with nutritious kale for a comforting meal that’s ready when you need it. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the chopped kale.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker risotto is packed with flavor from sausage, mushrooms, and Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add rice, broth, olive oil, garlic, and thyme to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked sausage and mushroom mixture to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, this recipe combines the flavors of juicy sausage, sweet corn, and crispy cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cream-style corn
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 box cornbread mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream-style corn, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add sliced sausage and stir until coated.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Top with the sausage mixture.
4. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions. Spread evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe combines the flavors of sausage, sweet potatoes, and onions in a rich and savory slow cooker hash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the sweet potatoes, sausage, onion, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in any accumulated juices before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Black Bean Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy sausage, tender black beans, and rich tomatoes for a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer mixture to a slow cooker; add black beans, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth; stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Ladle hot chili into bowls and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Sausage and Spinach Lasagna
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sausage, spinach, and lasagna noodles with the convenience of slow cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the spinach, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. In the slow cooker, create layers of the sausage mixture, lasagna noodles, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and cover.
6. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform tender bell peppers into a flavorful, nutritious meal with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Cut tops off bell peppers; remove seeds and membranes. Place in slow cooker.
5. Stuff each pepper with sausage mixture, filling to the top.
6. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Tomato Basil Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup recipe that combines juicy sausage, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker; add tomatoes, broth, cream, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Butternut Squash Stew
This slow cooker recipe is a perfect blend of savory sausage, comforting butternut squash, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a warm, nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sausage, butternut squash, onion, and garlic to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and heavy cream. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle thyme and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Slow Cooker Sausage and Zucchini Boats
Slow Cooker Sausage and Zucchini Boats Recipe
Summary: This hearty recipe combines the flavors of sausage, zucchini, and tomatoes in a deliciously easy slow cooker dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis, hollowed out and sliced into boats
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the sausage mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Arrange the zucchini boats on top of the sausage mixture.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, making sure the zucchinis are covered.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (low) or 1-3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Chickpea Tagine
A hearty, flavorful twist on traditional Moroccan cuisine, this slow cooker recipe combines spicy sausage with tender chickpeas, aromatic spices, and rich tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker; add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Apple Stuffing
Get ready for a deliciously savory and sweet twist on traditional stuffing! This slow cooker recipe combines juicy sausage, crispy apples, and flavorful herbs to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for your next family gathering or holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon sage
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the apples, butter, poultry seasoning, sage, and black pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
4. Place the cooked sausage mixture in a slow cooker. Add the cubed bread on top.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Slow Cooker Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo
Slow Cooker Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Get ready for a comforting and creamy meal with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. This dish combines the flavors of sausage, broccoli, and alfredo sauce in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 (12 oz) container cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Place the sausage in the slow cooker. Add the broccoli on top.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the creamy mixture over the sausage and broccoli.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in olive oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Red Pepper Jambalaya
This hearty jambalaya recipe is a twist on the classic Louisiana dish, featuring spicy sausage and sweet red peppers cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for a busy day when you need a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat; remove from pot.
2. Add the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the same skillet; cook until tender.
3. Add the cooked vegetables, diced tomatoes with green chilies, rice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in the browned sausage and olive oil.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your slow cooker game with these 20 mouth-watering sausage recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From hearty stews and soups to creamy pasta dishes, these flavorful recipes are sure to become new favorites. With a range of options from classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, you’ll never run out of ideas. So go ahead, get saucy, and let your slow cooker do the work!