If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of cheesy potatoes and savory smoked sausage, this easy cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole recipe is perfect for you. It’s simple to prepare and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Read on to learn how to make this delicious and hearty casserole.

What is Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole?

Easy cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole is a baked dish that features tender potatoes and smoky sausage pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a filling and tasty meal.

Ingredients List for Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

Smoked Sausage: 1 pound, sliced into rounds
Potatoes: 6 medium-sized russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
Sour Cream: 1 cup
Milk: ½ cup
Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted
Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for garnish)
Fresh Parsley: For garnish

Substitutions and Variations

Customize your casserole with these substitutions and variations:

Sausage: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative for a different flavor or dietary needs.
Potatoes: Swap russet or Yukon gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different taste and texture.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer.
Add-Ins: Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your easy cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the smoked sausage slices over medium heat until they are browned and slightly crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the finely chopped onion. Mix well.
Combine Ingredients:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the diced potatoes and smoked sausage slices.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes and sausage, spreading it evenly to cover all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with paprika and fresh parsley before serving.

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

Creating the perfect cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole involves a few key steps. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

Selecting the Potatoes: Choose firm and fresh potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency.
Cooking the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until just tender. Overcooking can make them mushy.
Browning the Sausage: Browning the sausage slices enhances their flavor and adds a slightly crispy texture.
Mixing the Cheese Sauce: Ensure the cheese sauce is well combined and smooth before pouring over the potatoes and sausage.
Layering the Ingredients: Spread the ingredients evenly in the baking dish to ensure every bite is flavorful and cheesy.
Baking Time: Covering the dish with foil initially helps the casserole cook through without drying out. Removing the foil later allows the top to brown and become crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole turns out perfect every time:

Overcooking the Potatoes: This can make them too soft. Cook until just tender and then drain well.
Undercooking the Sausage: Ensure the sausage slices are browned and slightly crispy before adding them to the casserole.
Not Seasoning Enough: Both the potatoes and sausage need adequate seasoning. Taste and adjust as you go.
Burning the Topping: Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven. Cover with foil if the topping browns too quickly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Enhance your casserole with these serving and presentation tips:

Use a Decorative Baking Dish: A nice dish can make your casserole look more appealing.
Garnish Generously: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve Hot: This casserole is best enjoyed hot and bubbly. Serve it straight from the oven for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

Here are some ideas for serving your casserole:

As a Main Course: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
At a Potluck: This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing. Keep it warm until serving.
For Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

Make your casserole visually appealing with these presentation ideas:

Layered Look: Use a clear glass baking dish to show off the layers of potatoes, sausage, and cheese sauce.
Colorful Garnishes: Top with colorful vegetables or herbs to brighten up the dish.
Individual Portions: Serve in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a cute and portable option.

Easy Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you perfect your casserole:

Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Reheat Gently: If reheating leftovers, do so in the oven to maintain the creamy texture and prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
Experiment with Flavors: Add different herbs, spices, or cheeses to customize the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked potatoes? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked or frozen diced potatoes to save time. Just thaw and drain them before using.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? A: You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or make your own white sauce as a substitute.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole? A: Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Ensure they are cooked before adding to the casserole.

Conclusion

This easy cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. With its creamy, cheesy layers and deliciously smoky sausage, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this comforting dish will be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate in cheesy, hearty goodness!