Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
There is something incredibly comforting and downright irresistible about the Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender diced potatoes layered with smoky, crispy sausage rounds, all bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that oozes with every bite. This dish combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that warms the soul and fills the belly. Whether you’re making a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is one to keep close to your heart—and your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dish a true delight, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy cheese sauce to the smoky sausage and perfectly tender potatoes, the ingredients are simple yet essential.
- Smoked sausage (1 lb): Adds a satisfying smoky flavor and meaty texture that’s key to this dish’s character.
- Russet potatoes (2 lbs): Their starchy texture holds up beautifully in baking and absorbs all the cheesy goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Provides that irresistible, gooey, melty quality everyone loves in a casserole.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Creates the creamy base for the cheese sauce, keeping things rich but smooth.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Used to form a roux and adds a silky richness to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly for that luscious texture.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes in the sauce for a well-rounded flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): A little smoky heat that complements the sausage beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): Adds color and a fresh, mild bite to brighten the finished casserole.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps the casserole from sticking and helps achieve a perfect bake.
How to Make Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Parboil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Boil them in salted water for about 8 to 10 minutes, just until they’re fork-tender but not falling apart. This step ensures the potatoes will finish cooking perfectly in the oven without turning mushy.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
While the potatoes cook, slice the smoked sausage into rounds. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the slices until they get a delicious light crisp on the edges—about 5 minutes. This adds texture and amplifies the smoky flavor that makes this casserole so comforting.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for just a minute to remove that raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted into a velvety sauce.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Layer the parboiled potatoes and browned sausage evenly in the dish. Pour the cheesy sauce over the top and gently stir to combine everything. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
How to Serve Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already amazing casserole, sprinkle fresh chopped green onions just before serving. The bright green color and mild onion flavor add a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy dish, making it look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole holds its own as a hearty main, but pairing it with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad adds a lovely balance. Light, acidic dressings or quick-pickled vegetables work wonders to cut through the richness and keep the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at your dinner table. Alternatively, try layering in some steamed bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for extra veggies and a pop of color. It’s a versatile dish that’s ready to adapt to what you have on hand.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready, simply reheat portions to enjoy the comforting goodness all over again.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time for busy nights, freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed, adding a little extra bake time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. To maintain a lovely melted cheese topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives it that signature smoky flavor, you can substitute kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo depending on your preference. Just brown it similarly before assembling the casserole.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the smoked sausage with your favorite meat-free sausage or sautéed mushrooms and roasted veggies. The cheese sauce will keep it rich and flavorful even without meat.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your sausage is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
What is the best kind of cheese to use?
Cheddar is perfect for its sharp flavor and gooey melt, but you could also mix in Monterey Jack or a bit of smoked gouda for more depth. Just stick to cheeses that melt smoothly for the best sauce texture.
How can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or even sautéed spinach can be layered in with the potatoes and sausage. These add color, nutrients, and a welcome contrast to the rich cheese and meats.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s both simple and spectacular, I can’t recommend the Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe enough. From the tender potatoes to the smoky sausage and the decadent cheese sauce, every bite feels like a big warm hug. It’s classic comfort food that’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite, so grab these ingredients and dive in—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole that combines tender potatoes, flavorful smoked sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the peeled and diced russet potatoes for 8–10 minutes or until they are just fork tender. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook Sausage: Using a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sliced smoked sausage until lightly crisped, approximately 5 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens up. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes and browned sausage evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, gently stirring to combine all ingredients for an even mixture.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden and melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa or turkey sausage for a different flavor or leaner option.
- Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers to the casserole for an added boost of vegetables and nutrition.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
