Slow Cooker Curried Sausages (Budget-Friendly Comfort Food)
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This slow cooker curried sausages recipe is the ultimate retro comfort food brought into the modern kitchen. Thick, juicy sausages simmer gently in a rich, sweet, and savory curry gravy loaded with tender carrots and onions. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a warming family favorite dinner that even the kids will love.
There is something incredibly nostalgic about a hearty bowl of curried sausages. It reminds me of rainy childhood evenings and the comfort of my grandmother’s kitchen. Over the years, I’ve adapted this classic dish for the slow cooker, making it the perfect solution for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal ready the moment you walk through the door.
This slow cooker curried sausages recipe takes humble ingredients and elevates them into a meal that feels like a warm hug. By allowing the sausages to simmer slowly, they absorb the aromatic spices while the sauce thickens into a glossy, flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Curried Sausages
Here is why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- Budget-Friendly: Sausages are an economical protein choice, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this a wallet-friendly meal for large families.
- Kid-Approved Flavor: Unlike spicy curries, this dish uses a mild curry powder balanced with fruit chutney, creating a sweet and savory profile that children adore.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once the ingredients are in the crockpot, your work is done. No constant stirring or watching the stove required.
- Freezer Friendly: This meal tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully, making it excellent for meal prepping.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Curried Sausages
To make this comforting dish, you will need:
The Meat and Vegetables:
2 pounds (1kg) thick sausages: Beef or pork sausages work best here. Choose a high-quality thick sausage that will hold up well during slow cooking.
2 large onions and 3 carrots: Sliced into chunks. These provide the vegetable base and add natural sweetness to the gravy.
The Sauce:
Curry Powder: I use a mild yellow curry powder (like Keen’s). It provides warmth without aggressive heat.
Fruit Chutney or Apricot Jam: The secret ingredient! This adds a touch of sweetness and glossiness that balances the savory curry spices.
Beef Stock: Provides the savory liquid base for the rich gravy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Brown sausages in a skillet with olive oil for 5-6 minutes until golden. This improves texture and flavor.
Cut browned sausages into thirds and place in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add onion wedges and thickly sliced carrots on top of the sausages.
Whisk together beef broth, chutney, tomato paste, curry powder, turmeric, and garlic in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Curried Sausages (Budget-Friendly Comfort Food)
Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker, large skillet (frying pan), chef's knife, cutting board, whisk, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat with the olive oil. Add the sausages and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. They do not need to be cooked through. Remove from heat. (Note: This step is optional but improves texture).
- 2
Cut the browned sausages into thirds or halves, depending on size. Place the sausage pieces into the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- 3
Add the onion wedges and sliced carrots on top of the sausages.
- 4
In a medium mixing bowl or large jug, whisk together the beef broth, fruit chutney, tomato paste, curry powder, turmeric, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- 5
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the sausages and vegetables in the crockpot. Gently stir to coat everything.
- 6
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The sausages should be cooked through and the carrots tender.
- 7
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Pour this into the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
- 8
Add the frozen peas to the slow cooker. Replace the lid and cook on HIGH for the final 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the peas to warm through.
- 9
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread.
Notes
If you want to reduce the fat content, you can boil the sausages for 10 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker; this removes excess grease and allows you to peel the skins off if preferred.
For the fruit chutney, Rosella or Mrs. Ball’s are classic brands, but any mango or apricot chutney works well. If you don’t have chutney, apricot jam combined with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar is a great substitute.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free sausages and double-check your curry powder and stock for additives. To make it dairy-free, simply ensure your serving sides (like mash) use oil instead of butter.
Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Curried Sausages
Follow these expert tips to ensure your sausages come out perfectly every time:
- Brown the Sausages: While you can put raw sausages in the slow cooker, I highly recommend quickly browning them in a pan first. This renders some of the fat and improves the texture of the casing so it doesn’t become rubbery.
- Thickness Matters: If you prefer a very thick, stew-like consistency, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry step at the end. The sauce naturally thins out as the vegetables release water during cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes directly into the pot for a one-pot meal, though you may need a splash more stock.
- Balancing Flavor: Taste the sauce at the end. If it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of lemon juice. If it’s too salty, a splash of cream or coconut milk can mellow it out.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This easy slow cooker sausage curry is traditionally served over a mountain of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious gravy.
Pairing Ideas:
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Thick slices of crusty buttered bread
- Buttered egg noodles
Flavor Variations:
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk at the end for a creamier, laksa-style vibe.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes or use a hot curry powder if you prefer more heat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This is a fantastic freezer meal. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until piping hot. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen the sauce as it thickens when cold.
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