A Hearty and Budget-Friendly Dump Meal Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and affordable meal that feeds a crowd, this dump meal is the perfect choice. At a total cost of $12–$15 or less, it’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor. Follow this simple recipe to create a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Kielbasa or smoked sausage (such as Ekrich Sausage), cut into chunks
- 1 (32 oz) bag of frozen hash browns
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
Optional Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Minced garlic
- Onion powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the base: In a greased slow cooker (use crockpot liners for easy cleanup), combine the sausage, hash browns, onion, and 2 cups of cheddar cheese.
- Mix the sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together the soup, milk, and sour cream. Add salt, pepper, minced garlic, and onion powder to taste.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the sausage and hash brown mixture in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the dish is hot, bubbly, and fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this hearty meal with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or Texas garlic toast for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless: Just toss the ingredients together and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Versatile: Easily customize the flavors with different seasonings or cheese varieties.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a large family or group.
