The first step in preparing your sausage casserole is to cook your sausages. While your slow cooker will do most of the work, you may opt to seal your sausages in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker.
This step isn’t essential, but it can add a delicious, golden color to your sausages, enhancing the final presentation of your dish.
To do this, simply heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil, and cook the sausages until they’re lightly browned on all sides. Once done, they’re ready to be added to your slow cooker, where they’ll continue to cook slowly and absorb the flavors of your casserole.
When choosing sausages for your casserole, fresh, uncooked sausages are the best option. These sausages will not only cook beautifully in the slow cooker but will also absorb all the delightful flavors of the casserole, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Precooked or cured sausages can also be used, but these will soften considerably in the slow cooker. While they’re a viable second choice, they might not provide the same delightful texture as fresh sausages. We generally advise against using frozen sausages. Not only is it unsafe to cook sausages from a frozen state, but frozen sausages often lack the quality and flavor profile of their fresh counterparts.
Next, you’ll want to add some flavor to your sausages. A variety of seasonings can be used depending on your personal preferences. Popular options include garlic, oregano, and thyme. These herbs will bring a delightful aroma and taste to your dish, complementing the richness of the sausages. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings until you find the combination that suits your taste buds best.
Once your sausage casserole is ready, there are many ways to serve it. One hearty option is over brown rice or whole-grain pasta. Alternatively, you can opt for polenta, which pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the sausage. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider tucking the sausages into crusty whole-wheat rolls for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
Finally, don’t forget the versatility of sausages. Both fresh and pre-cooked sausages can be added to a wide range of dishes beyond casseroles. For instance, they make an excellent addition to soups or stews prepared in the slow cooker, adding a depth of flavor and a satisfying texture to these warming, comforting dishes.
Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole Recipe
This wonderful slow cooker sausage casserole recipe serves 2-3 people. The ingredients you’ll need are:
- 6 Pork Sausages
- 2 Bell Peppers (Any Colour)
- 2 Onions
- Handful of Thyme
- 1 Tablespoon of Worcester sauce
- 1 Tablespoon of Paprika
- 1 Teaspoon of Garlic Puree
- 1 Tablespoon of Tomato Puree
- 1 Chicken Stock Pot
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 Tin Chopped Tomatoes
- 1 Tin of Beans (Cannellini, Haricot, Butter or a Mixed Beans)
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to prepare a delicious and heartwarming sausage casserole. Remember to brown your sausages before adding them to the slow cooker for an enhanced flavor and a delightful texture. Enjoy your cooking!