Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

If you're searching for a comforting and easy-to-make dish, look no further than our Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole. This hearty casserole combines smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese into one delicious dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Read on to discover how to make this mouthwatering recipe step-by-step.

What is Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole?

Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce. The ingredients are layered and baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that's packed with flavor and satisfying textures. It's a great option for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to bring to gatherings.

Ingredients List for Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Sausage: Swap out the smoked sausage for kielbasa, chorizo, or turkey sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes or a mix of white and sweet potatoes for added nutrition and variety.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
• Soup: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Topping: Instead of crushed cornflakes, try breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or French fried onions for a crunchy texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the sliced potatoes until they are just tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the smoked sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage and drained potatoes to the creamy sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sausage and potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Optional Topping: If using, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes over the cheese for a crunchy topping.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is straightforward. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect casserole every time.

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready when you are and helps the casserole cook evenly.

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Boil the sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are just tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Cook the Sausage

Slice the smoked sausage into rounds. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage slices until they are browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked sausage and drained potatoes to the creamy sauce mixture. Stir everything together until the sausage and potatoes are evenly coated with the sauce.

Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the sausage and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping.

Optional Topping

If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed cornflakes over the cheese. This adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy casserole.

Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes while boiling. They should be just tender, not mushy, to maintain their texture in the casserole.
• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Placing the casserole in a cold oven can affect the baking time and result in uneven cooking.
• Not Draining Potatoes Well: Ensure the boiled potatoes are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole, which can make it runny.
• Using Too Much Salt: The sausage and cheese can be salty, so adjust the additional salt in the recipe accordingly to avoid an overly salty dish.
• Crowding the Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking and a perfect crust.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving and presenting your Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole can make all the difference. Here are some tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

• Portion Sizes: Cut the casserole into even portions for a neat presentation.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Serving Utensils: Use a large spatula to serve neat slices, ensuring you get a good mix of sausage, potatoes, and cheese in each serving.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

• Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness.
• Plating: Serve the casserole on a large, clean plate with a sprinkle of herbs on top. Add a wedge of lemon or a small side salad for a pop of color.
• Family Style: For a casual dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish at the table, allowing guests to help themselves.

Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs. A dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of rosemary can add a new dimension to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use raw sausage in the casserole? A: It’s best to use cooked sausage to ensure the casserole cooks evenly. Raw sausage may not cook through properly in the baking time specified.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Yes! Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole? A: Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Q: How can I make this casserole healthier? A: Use low-fat sour cream and cheese, and add more vegetables to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish spicy? A: Yes, add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and customizable ingredients, it’s a versatile meal perfect for any occasion. Follow our step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and use our serving and presentation tips to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy your cooking experience, and don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own with your favorite variations and additions!

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