Chicken sausage casserole recipes warm your heart and your home. I can almost smell the cheese bubbling and the spices dancing in the air. They’re perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without all the fuss. Just toss together chicken sausage, your favorite veggies, and some creamy sauce, then let it bake until it’s golden and bubbly. It’s like a hug from your kitchen. And it’s not hard to make—probably less than an hour from start to finish. So, if you want a simple, delicious main dish, keep reading for a recipe that brings comfort to your dinner table.
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage casseroles are versatile and customizable.
- They are easy to prepare and clean up.
- Perfect for busy weeknight dinners!
What Makes Chicken Sausage Casserole Special
A chicken sausage casserole isn’t just baked ingredients—it’s a warm hug for hungry people. The kind that smells like thyme and garlic before it even hits the oven. Juicy sausage (fully cooked, so you don’t wait forever), soft potatoes or wild rice, maybe a handful of bell peppers. Cheese melts into golden puddles on top, unless you skip it—olive oil works fine for dairy-free folks. Prep time? Maybe 15 minutes. Cook time? 45, tops. It bends to your mood. Swap sweet potatoes for regular, toss in baby spinach if you’re feeling virtuous. Use a baking dish, a dutch oven, even a sheet pan if you’re lazy. Feeds six, reheats like a dream. Budget-friendly, too—grocery store staples, nothing fancy. Comfort food without the guilt (low carb? Skip the potatoes). Pro tip: mix well, but don’t overdo it. Let the ingredients breathe.
Different Types of Chicken Sausage Casserole Recipes
You could cook chicken sausage casserole every week and never repeat a version. Cheesy potato? Layer sliced baby potatoes with cheddar and cream cheese sauce. Add red wine to the sauce if you’re feeling bold. Pasta lovers go for rigatoni baked with tomato paste, minced garlic, and glazed ham bits. Got a slow cooker? Dump in chicken broth, wild rice, chopped fresh parsley. Let it simmer while you nap. For weeknights, try the air fryer hack—toss sliced sausage and sweet potatoes with olive oil, cook at 400°F until crispy. Serve with green beans. Recipe notes always matter: if using turkey sausage, add a splash of broth to keep it moist. And never underestimate the power of bread crumbs. Sprinkle ’em on top. Crunch makes everything better.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Now that you know about the different casseroles, let’s gather the essentials. This dish is all about hearty, comforting flavors with a mix of protein, vegetables, and rich sauces. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Sausage – The centerpiece of this dish. Choose between Italian-style for a bold, herby taste or a milder chicken sausage if you prefer something lighter.(1)
- Vegetables – Go classic with potatoes, onions, garlic, and carrots, or mix it up with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or butternut squash. They add texture and depth.
- Cheese – Cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for that perfect stretch, or parmesan for a salty kick. Mixing a few is always a good idea.
- Sauces – A robust tomato sauce keeps things classic, while a creamy cheese sauce makes it indulgent. For a subtle sweetness, a splash of apple cider works wonders.
- Herbs and Spices – Basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper bring the flavors to life. A dash of red pepper flakes adds heat if you like a little spice.
- Base Ingredient – Pasta, potatoes, or rice help hold everything together. Pick one based on your texture preference and cooking method.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a deeply satisfying meal.
Preparing Your Casserole Step by Step
Credits: Warren Nash
A chicken sausage casserole should be simple but packed with flavor. Follow these steps for a dish that’s both easy and delicious.
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Cook the Sausage
- Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a drizzle of oil and toss in the chopped onions and garlic.
- Stir and cook until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
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Make the Sauce
- If using tomato sauce, pour it directly into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring well.
- If making a cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and shredded cheese until smooth.
- For extra depth, mix in dried herbs like oregano and basil.
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Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased casserole dish, layer the base ingredient (cooked pasta, sliced potatoes, or pre-cooked rice).
- Add the cooked sausage and pour the sauce over everything.
- Sprinkle cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
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Bake or Slow Cook
- Oven Method: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, and flavor-packed goodness! (2)
Recipe Example: Cheesy Potato and Chicken Sausage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sliced chicken sausage until browned.
- In a separate pan, sauté diced potatoes in a bit of oil until tender.
- To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in cornstarch, then gradually add milk and shredded cheddar. Stir until smooth.
- In a baking dish, combine the sausage, potatoes, and cheese sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
This dish is a hit at family dinners. Everyone loves it, and it’s so easy to make! (3)
Recipe Example: Chicken Sausage Pasta Casserole
If you like pasta, this recipe is for you!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, cook sliced chicken sausage with garlic and basil until browned.
- Warm spaghetti sauce in another pan.
- In a greased casserole dish, combine pasta, sausage, and sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This one is always a favorite, especially when friends come over!
Recipe Example: Slow Cooker Chicken Sausage Casserole
This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to set it and forget it.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 can tinned tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 can mixed beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown chicken sausages over medium heat.
- Transfer sausages to a slow cooker.
- Add chicken stock, tinned tomatoes, mixed beans, onions, garlic, carrots, and spices.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
When you come home, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you!
Wrap Up Your Cooking Adventure
Some meals just feel like home. Chicken sausage casseroles fall into that category. They’re simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when a hearty dish is all you need. The best part? They work with whatever’s in the fridge.They’re flexible. Got baby potatoes? Toss them in. Prefer wild rice? That works too. Love the sweetness of roasted bell peppers? They’ll fit right in. These casseroles don’t demand a rigid recipe. They let you mix well, adjust, and make them your own.Some easy swaps to try:
- Dairy free? Use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese.
- Low carb? Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini.
- No chicken sausage? Turkey sausage works just as well.
For best results, cook time matters. Medium heat browns the sausage just right. A baking dish ensures even cooking. A dutch oven? Great for slow-baked depth. Whatever the method, this dish delivers comfort food at its finest.
FAQ
Can I make a chicken sausage casserole egg free?
Yes! Most chicken sausage casseroles are naturally egg free, but always check the ingredients in any pre-made sauces or mixes. If a recipe calls for eggs as a binder, you can use dairy-free alternatives like mashed sweet potatoes or a little olive oil to hold everything together. If baking, flaxseed mixed with water works well. Just mix well before adding it to your dish.
What’s the best way to add flavor to a chicken sausage casserole?
Red wine is a great way to deepen the flavors in a chicken sausage casserole, especially if you’re using tomato-based sauces. A splash while sautéing onions or deglazing your pan brings out richness. Olive oil also enhances the texture, making everything more satisfying. If you prefer a low carb option, swap traditional starches for roasted cauliflower or riced wild rice for a hearty feel without extra carbs.
How long is the cook time for a chicken sausage casserole?
Cook time depends on the ingredients, but most casseroles take about 30-45 minutes in the oven at 375°F. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken sausage, you can reduce baking time. A quick meal prep trick is to assemble everything in advance, so all you have to do is bake when you’re ready. If using a sheet pan instead of a casserole dish, check for doneness sooner since food spreads out more, cooking faster.
Can I make a chicken sausage casserole with wild rice?
Yes! Wild rice is a great addition to a chicken sausage casserole. It adds a chewy texture and holds up well to baking. You’ll want to cook it ahead of time since it takes longer than white rice. To mix well with the other ingredients, stir it in just before baking. If you’re looking for a low carb alternative, cauliflower rice works too, though it won’t have the same firm texture.
How do I meal prep a chicken sausage casserole?
Meal prep is easy with a chicken sausage casserole! You can assemble everything ahead of time in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If freezing, use a freezer-safe casserole dish. When ready, remove the foil and bake—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time if baking from cold. For easy cleanup, you can even use a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
Conclusion
Chicken sausage casseroles are tasty and simple, just right for those busy nights. Think cheesy potato casseroles, pasta bakes, or slow-cooked goodness—there’s a recipe for everyone! Just roll up your sleeves and gather your ingredients. You’ll create a comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s all about making dinnertime easier without losing flavor. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy a delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone!
References
- https://familystylefood.com/chicken-sausage-stew/
- https://www.slowcookerclub.com/slow-cooker-chicken-sausage-casserole/
- https://thealmondeater.com/cheesy-potato-chicken-sausage-casserole/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-casserole/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-rice-casserole/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/gluten-free-chicken-sausage-recipes/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
