Smoked Sausage Casserole with Potatoes and Cheese
This hearty Smoked Sausage Casserole is comfort food at its finest. Packed with tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table.
Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this easy-to-make casserole is warm, filling, and full of flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with smoky flavor, it’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Key Ingredients:
Smoked Sausage: Adds a rich, savory flavor with just the right amount of smokiness to elevate the dish.
Russet Potatoes: Hearty and tender, they provide a comforting base that soaks up all the cheesy goodness.
Velveeta Cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy, velvety texture that ties everything together.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy kick and a golden, bubbly topping when baked.
Half-and-Half or Milk: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats every bite.
Smoked Paprika: Brings a warm, slightly smoky depth to the sauce for extra flavor.
Smoked Sausage Casserole with Potatoes and Cheese
Ingredients:
3 cups diced Russet potatoes (partially cooked)
1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups half-and-half or whole milk
¼ tsp smoked paprika
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Everything
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Parboil the diced potatoes until slightly tender—don’t overcook them.
In a skillet, lightly brown the sausage slices with 1 tbsp olive oil.
Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually add the milk or half-and-half, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
Spread the potatoes and sausage evenly in the baking dish.
Pour the cheese sauce over everything.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 35–45 minutes, until golden and bubbly on top and potatoes are fully tender.
Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Notes:
Preparation: Parboiling the potatoes and lightly sautéing the smoked sausage before assembling the casserole ensures even cooking and enhances flavors.
Cheese Sauce: The creamy cheese sauce made with butter, flour, half and half (or milk), and a combination of Velveeta and Cheddar cheese adds richness and depth to the dish.
Layering: Layering the parboiled potatoes and sliced smoked sausage in the baking dish before pouring the cheese sauce over them ensures that each bite is filled with flavor.
Baking: Baking the casserole at 350°F allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring that the potatoes cook through and the top becomes golden brown and crispy.
Customization: This recipe is versatile and can be customized according to personal preferences. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary, or adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Texture: The combination of tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and creamy cheese sauce creates a delightful texture contrast in every bite.
Portion Size: With a yield of 6 servings, this casserole is perfect for a family dinner or for meal prep. Each serving is satisfying and hearty.
Nutritional Information: While this dish is indulgent and flavorful, it is also high in calories and saturated fat due to the cheese and butter. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole as a main dish accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for convenient meals throughout the week.
Enjoyment: The comforting aroma and cheesy goodness of this smoked sausage casserole make it a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to be enjoyed by the whole family.
Nutrition Information:
YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving:
CALORIES: 64 | TOTAL FAT: 6g | SATURATED FAT: 4g | TRANS FAT: 2g | CHOLESTEROL: 124mg | SODIUM: 242mg | SUGAR: 8g | PROTEIN: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While Russet potatoes are commonly used, you can experiment with other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for different textures and flavors.
Can I substitute the smoked sausage with another type of sausage?
Yes, you can use your preferred type of sausage, such as Polish sausage or kielbasa, to customize the flavor of the casserole.
Is it necessary to parboil the potatoes before assembling the casserole?
Parboiling the potatoes ensures that they cook evenly and become tender in the casserole.
Skipping this step may result in unevenly cooked potatoes.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta and Cheddar?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss, to customize the flavor of the cheese sauce.
What can I use as a substitute for half and half?
If you don’t have half and half, you can use a combination of equal parts milk and heavy cream as a substitute.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are tender.
You can test the doneness of the potatoes by inserting a fork into them to ensure they are soft.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake.
Allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for future meals.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own or paired with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the smoked sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.