Sausage potato casserole is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and heartiness to any table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With layers of tender potatoes, savory sausage, and creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best recipe for sausage potato casserole, share expert cooking tips, and answer common FAQs to help you perfect this dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a go-to meal.
Versatile – Customize with different types of sausage, cheeses, or add vegetables.
Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and store for quick meals throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
Ingredients
To make this rich and flavorful casserole, you’ll need:
1 lb ground sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
2 cups heavy cream or milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
½ cup chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them thinly for even cooking.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
Remove the sausage and drain excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute to create a roux.
Gradually add the heavy cream (or milk) and chicken broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
Add paprika, salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
Stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
Add half of the cooked sausage and pour half of the cheese sauce over it.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for added freshness.
Tips for the Best Sausage Potato Casserole
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect how smoothly it melts.
Thinly Slice the Potatoes – This ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
Try Different Sausages – Italian sausage, chorizo, or smoked sausage can add different flavors.
Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Add Vegetables – Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the nutrition and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Smoked Sausage?
Yes! If using pre-cooked sausage, simply slice or dice it before layering it into the casserole. This adds a smoky depth of flavor.
2. What Type of Potatoes Work Best?
Russet potatoes work well because they become soft and creamy when baked. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option for a buttery texture.
3. How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make a lighter version, you can:
Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork.
Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
Add more vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or carrots.
Use reduced-fat cheese.
4. Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
5. How Long Does Sausage Potato Casserole Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
6. What Can I Serve with Sausage Potato Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with:
A fresh green salad
Steamed or roasted vegetables
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Scrambled eggs (for a hearty breakfast option)
7. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Conclusion
Sausage potato casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!
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