Quick & Zesty Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with this hearty cheesy potato and smoked sausage casserole that promises pure satisfaction.

Layers of golden potatoes mingle with smoky sausage chunks for an irresistible combination.

Creamy cheese sauce binds everything together in a warm, inviting embrace.

Rich ingredients create a one-pan wonder that feels like a hug on a plate.

Weeknight dinners just got a seriously delicious upgrade with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Perfect for anyone who craves a satisfying meal that comes together quickly and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Helpful Hints for Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

• Avoid overcooking potatoes by checking tenderness with a fork; aim for a soft yet firm texture that holds shape during mixing.
• Whisk flour and butter continuously to create a smooth roux, eliminating potential clumps in your cheese sauce.
• Sauté sausage with a dash of smoked paprika before adding to the casserole for a more intense, caramelized taste profile.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising creamy texture.
• Use room temperature cheese for more even melting and ensure consistent sauce smoothness throughout the casserole.

How To Handle Cheesy Potato And Sausage Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the casserole fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, storing for up to 2 months with minimal texture loss.
• Warm refrigerated casserole at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying and maintain moisture.
• Reheat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly.

What to Add to Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

• Comforting Wine Companion: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel to complement the rich, hearty flavors of the smoked sausage and creamy cheese sauce.
• Zesty Side Salad Pairing: Create a bright, tangy green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the casserole's richness and provide a fresh contrast.
• Beer Harmony Suggestion: Choose a crisp Belgian-style wheat beer or a malty amber ale that will enhance the smoky sausage notes and balance the creamy cheese texture.
• Pickle Power Accent: Serve quick-pickled vegetables or a small side of dill pickles to add a sharp, acidic element that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the decadent casserole.

Cheesy Potato Sausage Casserole Spins

• Vegetarian Potato Casserole: Replace smoked sausage with plant-based protein like chopped vegetable medley, crumbled tofu, or meat substitutes. Use vegetable broth instead of dairy for a vegan-friendly sauce.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute cubed potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content. Maintain the same cheese sauce and cooking method for a lower-carb alternative.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour for the roux and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Replace regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Incorporate diced green chiles, jalapeños, and swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder. Add pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of heat and regional flavor profile.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute Russet potatoes with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They’ll work well and provide similar texture and taste.

• Is it okay to use low-fat ingredients?

Absolutely! You can use low-fat milk, reduced-fat cheese, and turkey sausage to make the casserole lighter and healthier.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or use a spicy smoked sausage to increase the heat level. Adjust according to your spice preference.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Potato Sausage Casserole That’s Bold And Easy

• Comfort Food Champion: A hearty one-dish meal that combines creamy potatoes, smoky sausage, and melted cheese for ultimate satisfaction.
• Quick Weeknight Savior: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make this casserole a lifesaver for busy families needing delicious dinner solutions in under an hour.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Uses affordable ingredients like potatoes and smoked sausage while creating a filling meal that stretches your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adaptable with different cheese varieties, optional vegetable additions, and ability to feed multiple people with one simple recipe.

Everything That Goes Into Cheesy Potato Sausage Casserole

• Russet Potatoes: Hearty potato variety perfect for casseroles, provides creamy texture and substance.
• Smoked Sausage: Adds rich, smoky protein and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Velveeta Cheese, Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Creates creamy, melty texture with bold cheese flavor, ensures ultimate comfort food experience.

• Butter, Flour: Creates smooth roux for thickening sauce with classic technique.
• Half & Half, Milk: Provides creamy, luxurious liquid base for the casserole.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential for balancing and brightening overall taste.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds subtle smoky undertone and warmth to the dish.
• Olive Oil: Optional ingredient for sauteing sausage and enhancing flavor.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Helps prevent casserole from sticking to baking dish.

Potato Sausage Casserole Easy Steps

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350°F, getting it ready for the delicious magic about to happen.

Step 2: Prepare Potato Pieces

Chop Russet potatoes into bite-sized cubes and boil them until they’re tender but still holding their shape.

Drain and set them aside, ready for their cheesy destiny.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Slice smoked sausage and give it a quick sizzle in a skillet with a splash of olive oil until it develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, creating a smooth base.

Slowly pour in half & half, stirring constantly until the sauce transforms into a silky, thick mixture.

Step 5: Season and Cheese Up the Sauce

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika

Stir in Velveeta cheese until it melts into a luxurious, creamy blanket.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

• Cooked potato cubes
• Browned sausage
• Cheese sauce

Ensure everything is evenly coated and looking irresistible.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Pour in the potato and sausage mixture, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Add Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese over the top, creating a golden, melty crown.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to bubble and turn a beautiful golden brown.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to settle.

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty family-style “easy cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole” brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Creamy potatoes and smoky sausage layers promise a satisfying meal you’ll savor with every delicious forkful.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 pound smoked sausage, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half & half or milk
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• Non-stick cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature of 350°F, ensuring an even cooking environment for the casserole.
2. Prepare Russet potatoes by cutting into uniform cubes, then immerse in boiling water until tender but maintaining structural integrity. Carefully drain and reserve.
3. Transform smoked sausage into appetizing medallions through precise slicing, then caramelize in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil until achieving a rich golden-brown exterior.
4. Construct a velvety cheese sauce foundation by melting butter in a saucepan, incorporating flour to create a roux, and whisking continuously to prevent lumping.
5. Gradually introduce half & half or milk into the roux, stirring persistently until the mixture thickens and develops a luxurious consistency.
6. Elevate the sauce’s flavor profile by seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoky paprika, then melt Velveeta cheese until achieving a silky, uniform texture.
7. Orchestrate the casserole components by gently folding together the cooked potato cubes, seared sausage slices, and decadent cheese sauce in a spacious mixing bowl.
8. Prepare a baking vessel with non-stick spray, then transfer the thoroughly combined mixture, ensuring even distribution.
9. Crown the casserole with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese, promising a crisp and golden top.
10. Slide the assembled dish into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, bronzed masterpiece, approximately 25-30 minutes.
11. Allow the casserole a brief resting period post-baking to stabilize and enhance flavor melding before serving.

Notes

• Choose Russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy and hearty casserole.
• Use high-quality smoked sausage for maximum flavor, and consider low-sodium options for a healthier twist.
• Substitute Velveeta with sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more complex, tangy taste profile.
• Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1200 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg