I absolutely adore smoked sausage and cheesy potato casserole! The juicy, flavorful sausages blend perfectly with the creamy, gooey cheese draped over tender potato slices. Each bite offers a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and hearty goodness that warms both the belly and the soul.

The crispy golden-brown crust on top adds a satisfying crunch to every forkful. This dish is pure comfort food magic, making it a family favorite for any cozy dinner or special gathering. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your recipe collection!

Ingredients Needed for This Recipe

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup milk

1/2 cup butter, melted
1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions for Making Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the sausage and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage and chopped onion until the sausage is lightly browned and the onions are soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato cubes and boil until they are just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, cooked sausage and onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle the top with paprika for a bit of color and added flavor.

Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Garnish and serve: Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or can be served with a side of green vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole with your family and friends! It’s sure to become a favorite for its ease of preparation and satisfying flavors.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Choose the Right Potatoes: The type of potato you use can make a big difference in your casserole. For this recipe, choosing a potato that holds its shape well after cooking, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, is crucial. These varieties offer a creamy texture and a buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the sausage and the richness of the cheese.

Precook the Sausage and Onions: Sautéing the sausage and onions before adding them to the casserole not only cooks them through but also enhances their flavors through caramelization. This step adds depth to the overall taste of the dish.

Shred Your Own Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own cheese from a block results in a meltier and smoother consistency. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce.

Adjust the Creaminess: The milk, sour cream, and condensed soup create the creamy base of the casserole. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of milk slightly. For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or even a splash of heavy cream.

Season Well: Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. In addition to the salt, pepper, and garlic powder called for in the recipe, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard powder or smoked paprika to complement the smokiness of the sausage.

Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve neatly. This rest period also gives the flavors a chance to meld together more harmoniously.

Serving Suggestions

On the Side: A simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette or steamed green beans makes a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the rich and creamy casserole. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Garnishes: Adding a garnish can introduce a new texture or flavor to your dish. Consider a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or even some crispy fried onions for added crunch.

Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir can complement the smoky, cheesy flavors of the casserole beautifully. The wine’s acidity and fruit notes can cut through the richness of the dish, balancing each bite.

Storage Tips

Cooling Down: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation inside the container, which could make the top soggy.

Refrigerating: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To help maintain its texture, you might want to store portions separately if you anticipate not consuming the entire casserole at once.

Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. If it was frozen, you may need to extend the reheating time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the smoked sausage with other types of cooked meats such as diced ham, bacon, or even chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use a vegetarian sausage substitute.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, to make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free condensed soup or a homemade version and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Easily incorporate more vegetables by adding spinach, kale, or broccoli to the mix. If using leafy greens, add them at the end of the sautéing process to wilt slightly before baking.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.

Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole

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Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole, an ideal dish for those seeking both solace and flavor in their meals.

Ingredients

1 lb smoked sausage sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
2 lbs potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 medium onion chopped
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream

1 cup milk
1/2 cup butter melted
1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika optional, for garnish
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Prepare the sausage and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage and chopped onion until the sausage is lightly browned and the onions are soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato cubes and boil until they are just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, cooked sausage and onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle the top with paprika for a bit of color and added flavor.
Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Garnish and serve: Let the casserole stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This dish is perfect on its own or can be served with a side of green vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.