Slow Cooker Sausages and Creamy Mash Recipe

Slow cooker bangers and mash is a simple, comforting twist on a British classic. Sausages simmer with onions in a rich gravy right in the crockpot, producing a flavorful, hands-off meal. Serve the savory bangers and onion gravy over creamy mashed potatoes with peas for a satisfying dinner. Instructions for making this in an Instant Pot are included as well.

Ingredients For Slow Cooker Bangers and Mash

• Sausages (bangers) — about 16 ounces (uncooked)
• Onion — 1 medium, sliced
• Low-sodium beef broth — 2 1/2 cups
• Cornstarch or arrowroot starch — 1/4 cup
• Seasonings — 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste), 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Oil — 1 tablespoon for browning
• To serve — mashed potatoes (about 2 cups cooked) and peas

How To Make Slow Cooker Bangers & Mash

Slow Cooker Method

1. Combine the beef broth, cornstarch (or arrowroot), dried thyme, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in the slow cooker. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausages on all sides, about 3–5 minutes per side; browning adds flavor but can be skipped if you prefer.
3. Place the browned sausages and sliced onion into the slow cooker and stir to coat with the liquid.
4. Cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours or on LOW for 4–6 hours, until the sausages are cooked through and the onions are tender. Stir occasionally if convenient.

Instant Pot Method

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté (high). Add oil and brown the sausages in batches, about 3–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the sliced onion and sauté a few minutes until softened.
3. Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Whisk in the cornstarch (or arrowroot), dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Return the sausages to the pot, close the lid, seal the vent, and select High Pressure for 5 minutes. When done, perform a quick release. Check seasoning and thicken more if desired by simmering briefly on Sauté.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food — hearty, warm, and satisfying.
• Flavor-packed gravy — made right in the slow cooker or Instant Pot.
• Browning adds depth — searing the sausages enhances the taste.
• Hands-off cooking — simple prep, long gentle cooking.
• Family-friendly — fills and pleases a crowd.
• Great for leftovers — reheats well for meals later in the week.

FAQs & Tips

What are “bangers”?

“Bangers” is the British name for sausages. The term dates back to older recipes when sausages sometimes burst during cooking, but today it simply refers to the sausage used in this dish—traditionally pork, though you can use whatever variety you prefer.

What is bangers & mash?

Bangers and mash pairs sausages (bangers) with mashed potatoes (mash) and a savory onion gravy. It’s a straightforward, filling comfort meal commonly served in British homes and pubs.

What type of sausages should you use?

Pork sausages are traditional, but uncooked bratwurst, Italian, or chicken sausages also work. Browning the sausages first improves flavor; in an Instant Pot you can brown them in the appliance before pressure cooking.

Are there healthier sausage options?

Yes—many brands make additive-free or leaner sausages. Choose lower-sodium broth and leaner sausages to reduce sodium and fat if desired.

How do you serve this?

Serve the sausages and onion gravy over mashed potatoes with peas or your preferred vegetable on the side.

How do you store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

What slow cooker size is best?

A 3.5-quart slow cooker works well for the amounts listed. To feed a larger group, double the recipe and use a 6-quart slow cooker.

Sausage Recipes

• Sausage, Potatoes & Green Beans

• Sausage, Bell Peppers & Onions

• Spicy Chicken & Sausage

• Gnocchi with Sausage & Kale

• Cajun Chicken & Sausage

This post contains affiliate links. If you click a product link I may receive compensation. For details see the site’s disclosure policy.