If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe. It brings together tender baby potatoes, smoky sausage, and a luscious, flavorful cream sauce that simmers gently all day long. This dish is an absolute lifesaver for busy days, delivering rich taste with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a go-to weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both simple and delicious. From the smoky depth of the sausage to the creamy, aromatic sauce, every component enhances the texture, flavor, or color to make this Crockpot dinner irresistible.
- Smoked sausage, 1 lb: Provides a smoky, meaty flavor and a satisfying bite that complements the softness of the potatoes.
- Baby potatoes, 4 cups: Halved for quick cooking, these bring a tender, creamy texture that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Small onion, 1, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
- Garlic cloves, 3, minced: Infuses the Crockpot dinner with a rich, aromatic kick.
- Chicken broth, 1 cup: Creates a flavorful, savory foundation for the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Gives the dish its signature luscious creaminess and richness.
- Dried thyme, 1 teaspoon: Adds a gentle herbal note that balances the richness.
- Smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the smoky flavor and adds a warm, inviting color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons, optional: A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by spraying your crockpot insert with a light coating of cooking spray or oil. This simple step ensures your creamy sausage and potato mixture won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Add Main Ingredients
Layer the sliced smoked sausage, halved baby potatoes, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic directly into the crockpot. The layering helps the flavors marry beautifully as they cook low and slow.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture is the magic touch that brings everything together perfectly.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Pour the creamy sauce over the sausage and potatoes, making sure everything is evenly covered. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the flavors have blended into a silky, savory sauce.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, give the Crockpot dinner a gentle stir to combine all the delicious flavors. If you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice, adding vibrant green contrast and a subtle herbal brightness. For an extra touch of indulgence, a sprinkling of shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can bring added creaminess and flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty main pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance richness with freshness. For a cozy vibe, serve with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to mop up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Crockpot dinner over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce. Alternatively, try layering it in individual oven-safe dishes topped with breadcrumbs and baked briefly for a crunchy, golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Freezing
Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or broth to bring back its silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular sausage instead of smoked sausage?
You can, but smoked sausage adds a uniquely rich, smoky depth that really defines the character of this recipe. If using regular sausage, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to help replicate that flavor.
What kind of potatoes work best?
Baby potatoes or new potatoes are ideal because they cook evenly and absorb the sauce well without falling apart. If you only have larger potatoes, cut them into smaller, uniform pieces.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a dairy-free twist that still tastes rich and comforting.
How thick is the sauce supposed to be?
The sauce should be creamy and slightly thickened, coating the sausage and potatoes but not too heavy. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small slurry of flour or cornstarch before serving.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Green beans, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added in the last hour of cooking to keep their texture and boost nutrition while fitting in perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who loves simple, big-flavor meals that require little hands-on time. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cozy dinner after a busy day and one that your family will thank you for again and again. Give it a try and discover just how effortless comfort food can be!
Print
Creamy Smoked Sausage and Potato Crockpot Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Smoked Sausage & Potato Crockpot Dinner is a comforting and hearty slow-cooked meal featuring tender baby potatoes, smoky sausage, and a rich, flavorful creamy sauce infused with herbs and spices. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal prep, it combines the smoky depth of sausage with creamy, savory elements for a fulfilling dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid and Seasonings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the crockpot insert with cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Add Main Ingredients: Place the sliced smoked sausage, halved baby potatoes, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot, layering evenly.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Mixture: Pour the creamy broth mixture evenly over the sausage and vegetables inside the crockpot, ensuring all ingredients are moistened.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the baby potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, gently stir the contents to combine all the flavors. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for added freshness and color.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Use smoked sausage with your preferred level of spiciness to customize the heat of the dish.
- If you don’t have baby potatoes, small red or Yukon gold potatoes can be chopped into bite-size pieces and used instead.
- This dish can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings, just ensure your crockpot capacity is sufficient.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
