In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, lightly brown sausage slices (you are not cooking them all the way through).
Drain grease from sausage and blot off any excess; transfer to a crock cooker. Add remaining ingredients, except black pepper.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours. Remove bay leaves and season with pepper before serving.