Crock-Pot Casserole
A hearty crock-pot casserole combining savory sausage, tangy sauerkraut, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crunchy bread crumbs for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the bottom of the crock-pot, cook sauerkraut and sausage until sausage is cooked throughout.
- Note: You may need to drain some juice off your sauerkraut depending on whether or not it is vacuum packed.
- Layer mashed potatoes over sauerkraut and sausage.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and bread crumbs on top.
- Cook until cheese is melted, about 15 minutes on low.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of regular bulk sausage. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute turkey sausage. When layering the mashed potatoes, try using instant mashed potatoes for convenience. If you want to make this dish even heartier, add some cooked vegetables like peas or corn to the layers. This recipe is great for meal prep as it can easily be made in advance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like coleslaw or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, serve it alongside warm, crusty bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a comforting blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Casserole contains roughly 719 calories, with 34g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (68% of the Daily Value), protein (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1137mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Just ensure it melts well to maintain that creamy texture on top.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this casserole, substitute the bulk sausage with plant-based sausage or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and lentils. You can also enhance the flavor by adding some sautéed onions and garlic to the sauerkraut layer.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).