Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole
A hearty and creamy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole combining tender Yukon Gold or red potatoes with smoky sausage and rich melted cheese, baked to golden perfection. This comforting one-dish meal is family-friendly, easy to prepare with simple ingredients, and perfect for dinner, meal prep, or potlucks.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Potatoes
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled (optional) and diced
Sausage and Aromatics
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds or bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or cream, at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling (if desired) and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Parboil them in salted water for about 10 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Sausage and Aromatics: Slice the smoked sausage into rounds or bite-sized chunks, then brown them in a large skillet over medium heat until nicely caramelized. Remove the sausage and in the same pan, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant to build a flavorful base.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk or cream, stirring constantly until thickened. Reduce the heat and add shredded cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Assemble: Gently fold the cooked potatoes and sausage into the cheese sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Parboil Potatoes: This ensures they’re cooked through without turning mushy in the oven.
- Use Sharp Cheddar: A sharper cheese balances the richness and adds more flavor depth.
- Don’t Skip Sautéing: Cooking onions and garlic first brings out their sweetness and enhances the sauce.
- Room Temperature Dairy: Use milk or cream at room temperature to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking, which improves slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cheesy potato casserole, smoked sausage casserole, comfort food, family dinner, creamy casserole, one dish meal