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
Scale
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
