Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Potatoes & Green Beans Recipe

Introduction

This ultimate 5-ingredient slow cooker sausage & potatoes recipe is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight. With just Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. For another simple dinner idea featuring sausage, try the Southern Fried Cabbage With Shrimp Sausage & Bacon Recipe.

Ingredients

This hearty slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes & green beans recipe comes together with simple, savory ingredients that meld into a deeply satisfying one-pot meal.

• 16 ounces Italian sausage, cut into 1-inch rounds (sweet or hot)
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/3 cup onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	6 hours (on Low)
Total Time	6 hours 15 minutes

Context: This slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans recipe requires about 20% less hands-on time than similar stovetop or oven-baked versions, letting the appliance do the work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Sausage

Begin by browning 1.5 pounds of Italian sausage links in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through, just get a nice sear on the outside to lock in flavor and juices. This crucial step adds depth that you can’t get from adding raw sausage directly to the slow cooker.

Step 2 — Layer the Potatoes

Place 2 pounds of halved baby potatoes (or quartered Yukon Golds) in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. This creates a sturdy base. For even cooking, try to keep the potato pieces roughly the same size.

Step 3 — Add Aromatics & Seasoning

Scatter one sliced onion and 4-5 minced garlic cloves over the potatoes. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil, plus ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. This layer will infuse the entire dish with classic Italian flavor as it cooks.

Step 4 — Combine Liquids & Pour

In a small bowl, whisk together one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), ½ cup of chicken broth, and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes and aromatics. The liquid will steam and braise the ingredients, preventing dryness.

Step 5 — Add Sausage & Green Beans

Nestle the seared sausage links into the slow cooker. Top with 12 ounces of trimmed fresh green beans. Do not stir. The beans will steam perfectly on top, retaining a slight crispness. For a thicker sauce, you can substitute one can of condensed tomato soup for the diced tomatoes.

Step 6 — Cook Low & Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The dish is done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the sausage has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.

Step 7 — Final Adjustments & Serve

Once cooked, taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as needed. For a brighter finish, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar or a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Serve this hearty Slow Cooker Italian Sausage, Potatoes & Green Beans directly from the pot, ensuring each plate gets a sausage link, plenty of vegetables, and a ladle of the rich tomato broth.

Nutritional Information

Calories	Approx. 420 kcal
Protein	Approx. 22 g
Carbohydrates	Approx. 35 g
Fat	Approx. 21 g
Fiber	Approx. 6 g
Sodium	Approx. 980 mg

Note: These are estimates per serving for this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage, Potatoes & Green Beans, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary with specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some practical ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs or flavor preferences.

• Leaner Protein — Swap pork sausage for chicken or turkey Italian sausage to reduce fat. For a plant-based option, use a high-quality meatless sausage.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the potatoes with chunks of turnips, radishes, or cauliflower. They will soften and absorb the savory flavors beautifully.
• Dairy-Free — The recipe is naturally dairy-free as written. If you add a garnish, use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten-Free — Ensure your Italian sausage and any broth used are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain fillers.
• Low-Sodium — Choose a low-sodium sausage and use a no-salt-added broth or water. Rely on garlic, onion, oregano, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for deep flavor.
• Extra Vegetables — Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms in the last hour of cooking for more nutrients and color.
• Spice Level Adjustment — For milder flavor, use sweet Italian sausage. For more heat, opt for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate it for any occasion.

• With Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of Italian or sourdough bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices from the slow cooker.
• Over Creamy Polenta: For a comforting twist, serve the sausage and vegetable mixture over a bed of creamy Parmesan polenta.
• Alongside a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad.
• For a Casual Gathering: Serve directly from the slow cooker for a fuss-free, family-style meal that encourages second helpings.
• Plating for Presentation: Use a wide, shallow bowl. Place a scoop of potatoes and green beans first, top with sliced sausage, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan.
• With a Glass of Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti or a crisp white such as Pinot Grigio to complement the savory Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw sausage links whole, which can lead to uneven cooking and greasy sauce. Fix: Brown and slice the sausage before adding to the slow cooker for better flavor and texture.
• Mistake: Adding green beans at the start, causing them to become mushy and lose color. Fix: Stir in fresh or frozen green beans during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking.
• Mistake: Cutting potatoes too small, making them disintegrate into the broth. Fix: Use waxy potatoes like redskins and cut them into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks.
• Mistake: Not deglazing the pan after browning sausage, wasting flavorful fond. Fix: Pour a bit of broth or water into the hot pan and scrape up the bits, then add it all to the cooker.
• Mistake: Skipping the sear on the sausage to save time, resulting in a bland, pale dish. Fix: A quick 5-minute sear creates a Maillard reaction that deeply enhances the overall flavor.
• Mistake: Using low-sodium broth without adjusting seasoning, leading to a flat-tasting meal. Fix: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs like oregano and fennel seed at the end.
• Mistake: Overfilling the slow cooker, which prevents proper heat circulation and cooking. Fix: Ensure the pot is no more than two-thirds full, especially with starchy ingredients like potatoes.
• Mistake: Lifting the lid frequently to check, which significantly increases cooking time. Fix: Trust the process; each peek can add 15-20 minutes to your cook time.
• Mistake: Ending with a watery sauce because the lid was left on during the final cook. Fix: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid and cook on high for the last 20-30 minutes.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating to maintain food safety.
• Freezer: This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage, Potatoes & Green Beans freezes well for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat portions in a skillet over medium heat until steaming hot, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally. Always ensure the reheated dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Proper storage keeps this hearty meal tasting fresh and delicious for your next easy dinner.

Conclusion

This hearty Slow Cooker Italian Sausage, Potatoes & Green Beans is the ultimate hands-off meal. For another easy sausage dish, try our Good Morning Sausage Onions and Bell Peppers with Grits Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage. Mild or hot Italian sausage links work well, or you can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. The key is to ensure the sausage is fully cooked through in your slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans.

Do I need to brown the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning is recommended but not strictly required. Searing the sausage first adds deeper flavor and improves texture. If you skip this step, simply ensure the sausage is cooked to a safe internal temperature by the end of the slow cooking time.

How can I prevent the potatoes and green beans from becoming mushy?

Cut your potatoes into large, uniform chunks and place the green beans on top during the last hour of cooking. This method for your slow cooker Italian sausage, potatoes, and green beans helps the vegetables retain better texture without overcooking.