Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of noodles, especially when they’re mixed with flavorful smoked sausage and a creamy sauce. This Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage Noodles recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to dive into a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic of the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 14–16 ounces smoked sausage (kielbasa or similar), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups wide egg noodles (about 4 ounces dry)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by slicing the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch thick rounds. If you have a few extra minutes, consider quickly browning the slices in a skillet over medium heat until they acquire a lovely golden brown color on each side. This optional step will add an extra layer of flavor.
- Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with a bit of oil or nonstick spray. This will make cleanup a breeze! Add the sliced smoked sausage to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth and condensed cream of mushroom soup until mostly smooth. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just ensure it’s well combined without any big clumps of soup.
- Pour the broth and soup mixture over the sausage in the slow cooker. Gently stir to spread the sausage pieces throughout the liquid.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for about 2–3 hours, until the sausage is piping hot and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
- About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the dry egg noodles, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the hot, savory liquid. If needed, press them down gently with a spoon to help them soak up the broth and soup mixture.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened into a glossy, rich gravy that clings beautifully to the noodles and sausage.
- Once the noodles are perfectly tender, give everything a good stir from the bottom. This will ensure that the sausage rounds and noodles are evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Taste and add a pinch of salt or pepper if desired. Ladle into bowls and serve hot right from the slow cooker!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to swap out the smoked sausage for your favorite protein, such as turkey sausage or even diced chicken for a lighter option.
- Add in a cup of frozen peas or corn about 10 minutes before serving for a pop of color and added nutrition!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Techniques
The slow cooking method truly enhances flavors, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over time. Browning the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker, although optional, can elevate the dish with added depth. When stirring in the egg noodles, ensure they’re submerged to absorb all that flavor-packed broth.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different shapes of pasta, just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator the night before, then add them to the slow cooker in the morning for an easy dinner.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage Noodles recipe is an effortless way to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With tender noodles enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce and slices of juicy sausage, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy the process of making this family-friendly meal, and savor every delightful bite!