Budget-Friendly Dump Meal: Kielbasa and Hashbrown Casserole, Ready in 6 Hours or Less!

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When you think of comfort food, it’s hard to beat the ease and flavor of a slow cooker meal. This super simple dump meal combines frozen hashbrowns, savory kielbasa, and cheesy goodness into a hearty dish that costs less than $10 but feeds a crowd. If you’re craving something warm, filling, and utterly delicious, this cheesy kielbasa and hashbrown casserole is a perfect go-to recipe. Best of all, it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

What makes this dish so special? It’s the combination of affordable ingredients and the convenience of using a slow cooker. You can toss everything in the pot, set it, and forget it while your home fills with the enticing aroma of cheesy, garlicky goodness. Plus, this dish is incredibly customizable; you can spice it up with garlic, onion powder, or even some hot sauce if you’re in the mood for a kick. It’s a great weeknight dinner solution, and it pairs perfectly with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or—if you’re feeling indulgent—Texas garlic toast.

Recipe: Slow Cooker Kielbasa and Hashbrown Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 (32 oz) bag of frozen hashbrowns
• 1 kielbasa sausage, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 (10 oz) can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic, onion powder, minced garlic for extra flavor
• ½ cup extra shredded cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Start by greasing your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Add the frozen hashbrowns, diced kielbasa, diced onion, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, milk, and can of cream of mushroom (or chicken) soup. Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings like minced garlic or onion powder if desired.
4. Pour the soup mixture over the hashbrown and kielbasa mixture in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or some garlic toast on the side for a complete meal.

This casserole is a winner not only because it’s easy and budget-friendly, but it also feeds a lot of people without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or even a casual get-together, and your slow cooker does most of the work. The creamy combination of sour cream, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup creates a rich and comforting sauce that perfectly coats the kielbasa and potatoes.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this kielbasa and hashbrown casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s warm, cheesy, and comforting—all the best things about fall and winter cooking in one dish.

Sources:

1. The Spruce Eats - How to Use a Slow Cooker
2. AllRecipes - Kielbasa Recipes
3. Southern Living - Creamy Casseroles