If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warm, comforting flavors with every bite, this Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Imagine tender slices of golden potatoes layered with smoky, savory sausage and bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella. This casserole is a fantastic way to take simple ingredients and transform them into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or any occasion where comfort food is on the menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list, each component chosen to build perfect layers of flavor and texture. These essentials come together to create a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of smoky goodness.
- 1½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced, they offer a tender, fluffy base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 12 ounces smoked sausage: Sliced into rounds, it adds a rich smoky flavor and meaty texture that’s simply irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps create a velvety smooth cheese sauce and enriches the casserole’s overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The thickening agent for the sauce, giving it that perfect creamy consistency.
- 1½ cups whole milk: Provides the creamy base for the cheese sauce and keeps everything luscious and moist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharp, tangy richness that defines the cheesy flavor.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds meltiness and a mild creamy touch to balance the cheddar’s punch.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses flavor deeply without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle savory background note that rounds out the seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures everything tastes just right.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite, tying the seasoning together perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Essential to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
How to Make Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. In a skillet warmed over medium heat, brown the smoked sausage slices for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful caramelized crust. This step is key to unlocking that deep smoky flavor which makes the casserole truly special. Once browned, set the sausage aside to wait for its moment to shine in the layers of this dish.
Step 2: Make the creamy cheese sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking it while stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuing to whisk, cooking until the mixture thickens noticeably—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is silky and luscious. This sauce is the heart of the Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe, infusing every bite with creamy goodness.
Step 3: Layer the casserole
Begin layering your casserole by arranging half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Follow with half of the browned smoked sausage, distributing it over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheesy sauce over this, allowing it to seep between the layers. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and cheese sauce to complete the layers. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep everything moist during baking.
Step 4: Bake to perfection
Bake the casserole covered for 40 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the foil and continue to bake uncovered for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is a gorgeous golden brown, bubbling with cheesy goodness. This last phase of baking crisps up the top layer just enough to add texture without losing any creaminess underneath. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set beautifully.
How to Serve Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely fresh note and vibrant green contrast against the rich golden top. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper just before serving to enhance the smoky flavors and presentation. These small touches make the dish pop visually and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables brings balance and brightness to the meal. A simple cucumber salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of fresh lemon are both excellent choices. The freshness of the sides complements the creamy, cheesy layers perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming personal touch. Top each serving with a bit of extra shredded cheese and a fresh parsley leaf. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a side of spicy mustard to brighten the smoky sausage flavors. Pairing this casserole with crusty bread lets everyone mop up the glorious cheese sauce and makes the meal extra satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient meal for busy weeknights when you want something ready to go.
Freezing
This Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved for convenience, though the oven method keeps the texture intact with that perfectly melty top layer.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this casserole?
Absolutely! Kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even a spicy Italian sausage work wonderfully and can give the casserole a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this casserole is fantastic for meal prep. You can fully assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when you’re ready. It also reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.
Can I substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes?
You can try sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter, nutrient-rich twist. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes might alter the overall flavor, but they provide a lovely contrast to the smoky sausage and cheese.
What if I don’t have both cheddar and mozzarella cheese?
Using just cheddar will make the casserole sharper and more robust, while using only mozzarella will give it a milder and creamier texture. Combining both gives the best balance, but feel free to adapt based on what you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can be stirred into the layers for added nutrition and color. Just be mindful of moisture content, so the casserole doesn’t become watery.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds all at once. It’s easy to prepare, packed with layers of familiar, comforting flavors, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be met with smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This cheesy Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender sliced potatoes layered with browned smoked sausage and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a perfect American main course for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Sausage
- 1½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- Nonstick cooking spray, as needed
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish and sausages: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked sausage slices for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and continue cooking for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is fully melted.
- Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Add half of the browned smoked sausage evenly on top, then pour half of the cheese sauce over the layers. Repeat this layering with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and cheese sauce.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, bright finish.
Notes
- You can substitute kielbasa or turkey sausage if preferred.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- This casserole reheats well and makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prep.
