Description
Cheese, Potato, and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1.5 lbs baby potatoes, sliced into rounds
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, diced
For the Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1.5 cups milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the sliced smoked sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the onions and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
Parboil the Potatoes:
Boil the sliced potatoes in salted water for 8-10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth to form a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until smooth.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a large casserole dish, layer the parboiled potatoes, sausage, and sautéed vegetables.
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layers.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6
#ComfortFood #CheesyCasserole #PotatoAndSausageBake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, slice the sausage and vegetables. Brown the sausage in a skillet, then sauté the onions and peppers in the rendered fat for extra flavor. Simultaneously, parboil the sliced potatoes in salted water. For the sauce, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly add milk while whisking vigorously. Once thickened, season and melt in the cheese. In your baking dish, combine all components and pour the sauce over. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more minutes to achieve a golden top.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans. For a heartier spread, add crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. It’s a complete meal on its own but can also be served as a decadent side dish at a potluck or family gathering.
How-to Summary
Brown sausage, sauté veggies, and parboil potatoes. Make a cheese sauce by creating a roux with butter and flour, whisking in milk, and melting in cheddar. Combine all in a dish, bake covered for 20 mins, then uncovered for 10 mins. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage? Kielbasa, Andouille, or even cooked chicken or ham are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking time if using pre-cooked meat.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a Colby blend work well. For a sharper flavor, try a pepper jack or a mix with some Gruyère.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Do I have to parboil the potatoes? Parboiling ensures they are fully tender and creamy. Skipping this step may result in undercooked, crunchy potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lumpy Sauce: Adding milk too quickly to the roux. Whisk constantly and pour the milk in a slow, steady stream.
- Overcooked Vegetables: Sautéing the peppers and onions until they are mushy. They should be just softened, as they will cook further in the oven.
- Underseasoning: The potatoes and sauce both need adequate salt. Taste the cheese sauce before assembling.
- Skipping the Browning: Not browning the sausage sufficiently removes a layer of flavor. Get a good sear on the slices.
Conclusion
This Cheese, Potato, and Smoked Sausage Casserole is the epitome of hearty comfort food, combining savory protein, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Its straightforward preparation leads to incredibly satisfying results perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that is both delicious and reliable. Give this recipe a try for a meal that is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.