Slow Cooker Sausage and Corn

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Slow Cooker Sausage and Corn

This dish is a staple of Midwestern “potluck” culture, often called “Corn Pudding with a Kick.” By slow-cooking the corn in a base of butter and cream cheese, the sugars caramelize slightly, creating a rich, velvety texture that contrasts perfectly with the snappy, salty sausage.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 3–4 hours (Low) or 2 hours (High)

  • Servings: 6-8 people

Ingredients

  • Sausage: 1 lb (450g) Smoked Kielbasa or Andouille, sliced into coins.

  • Corn: 2 lbs (approx. 900g) Frozen whole-kernel corn.

  • Cream Cheese: 8 oz (225g) block, cubed.

  • Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), sliced.

  • Sugar: 1 tbsp (optional, for extra sweetness).

  • Seasoning: 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

  • Garnish: Fresh chives or red pepper flakes.

Instructions

  1. Brown the Sausage (Optional): For extra flavor, sear the sausage coins in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side until crisp.

  2. Layer: Add the frozen corn to the slow cooker. Top with the sausage slices.

  3. Add Fats: Place the cubed cream cheese and butter sticks evenly over the top. Sprinkle with sugar, pepper, and garlic powder.

  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours or High for 2 hours.

  5. Finish: Open the lid and stir vigorously until the cheese and butter have created a smooth, creamy sauce coating the corn.

  6. Serve: Garnish with chives and serve warm.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Add Water: It might look dry at first, but the frozen corn releases plenty of moisture as it thaws to create the sauce.

  • The Cheese Trick: Use full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions tend to separate or become “grainy” under long heat.

  • Spice it up: If using mild kielbasa, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to balance the richness.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Estimates based on 1/8th of the recipe.

Nutrient Amount
Calories 385 kcal
Total Fat 28g
Carbohydrates 24g
Protein 12g
Sodium 720mg

Benefits of This Dish

  • High Satiety: The combination of fats and proteins makes this much more filling than a standard vegetable side.

  • Gluten-Free: Naturally wheat-free (just double-check your sausage brand for fillers).

  • Energy Dense: Great for active families or cold-weather meals.

Q&A

Q: Can I use canned corn?A: Yes, but make sure to drain it thoroughly first. Frozen corn generally has a better “pop” and texture for slow cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Q: Can I make this a full meal?A: Absolutely. Stir in some cooked pasta or serve it over white rice to turn it into a hearty main course.

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