Slow Cooker Sausage & Potatoes

Ingredients:

1 lb (450–500g) smoked sausage (or any sausage you like), sliced into rounds
4–5 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized cubes
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper (optional), sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth (or water + bouillon cube)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing, peeling, and cutting the potatoes into evenly sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the slow cooker. Slice the sausage into medium-thick rounds—not too thin, so they keep their texture during the long cooking time.

Slice the onion into thin strips, mince the garlic, and cut the bell pepper if you’re using it.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage (Optional but Recommended)

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned on the outside.

This step is optional, but it adds a deeper, richer flavor to the dish. Once done, remove the sausage and set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease your slow cooker with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.

Add the potatoes first (they take the longest to cook)
Layer the onions, garlic, and bell pepper on top
Place the browned sausage over everything

Step 4: Season and Add Liquid

Sprinkle the paprika, thyme, black pepper, cumin (if using), and salt evenly over the ingredients.

Pour the chicken broth over the top. This will help everything cook gently and create a flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

On LOW for 6–7 hours (best for tender, flavorful results)
OR on HIGH for 3–4 hours (if you’re short on time)

Avoid opening the lid too often, as this releases heat and slows down the cooking process.

Step 6: Check and Finish

Once the potatoes are fork-tender and fully cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving.

Serve hot with crusty bread, rice, or even a simple salad on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

Perfect as a comforting dinner on cold days
Can be served as a main dish or hearty side
Pairs well with a spicy sauce or mustard

Tips & Variations:

Add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition
Use spicy sausage if you like heat
For a creamy version, stir in a little cream or cheese at the end
Leftovers taste even better the next day after flavors develop