If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food recipe, this Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole has you covered. Imagine tender slices of potato layered with smoky sausage, sweet onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavors that make every bite irresistible.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners, this casserole is a complete meal all in one dish. The smoky sausage pairs beautifully with the velvety cheese sauce, while the potatoes bring that familiar, cozy texture we all crave. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or hearty side, this cheesy casserole will be a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-Pan Wonder: Meat, potatoes, and cheese all baked together for a complete meal.
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Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy casserole.
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Comfort Food Classic: Rich flavors and creamy texture make it a cold-weather favorite.
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Easy to Customize: Swap cheeses, change the sausage, or add veggies to make it your own.
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Great for Gatherings: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual dinners with friends.
Ingredient Breakdown
Potatoes (4–5 medium): The hearty base of the casserole—tender, creamy, and filling.
Smoked Sausage (1 lb): Adds smoky, savory depth and a meaty bite.
Onion (1 medium): Balances the richness with mild sweetness.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts into the sauce for sharp, tangy flavor.
Milk (½ cup): Helps create the creamy base for the cheese sauce.
Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds tang and creaminess to balance the flavors.
Butter (2 tbsp): Rich base for the roux, giving the sauce depth.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the cheese sauce to a velvety consistency.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Brings a subtle savory note.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds mild spice and color to the dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning all the layers.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and flavor for serving.
Pro Tips
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Don’t Overcook Potatoes: They should be just fork-tender, not mushy, so they hold their shape in the casserole.
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Brown the Sausage Well: A little caramelization adds big flavor.
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Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
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Rest Before Serving: This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut neat servings.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Cheese Options: Try mozzarella for gooey stretch, pepper jack for spice, or Gruyère for gourmet flavor.
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Different Meats: Swap smoked sausage for kielbasa, chorizo, or even chicken sausage.
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Add Veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach make it more colorful and nutritious.
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Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or spicy sausage for extra heat.
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Lighter Version: Use turkey sausage, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
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Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
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Enjoy with a simple fruit salad for a lighter touch at brunch.
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Make it part of a potluck spread with other casseroles and sides.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
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Refrigerate Leftovers: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.
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Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving large portions to keep texture intact.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Potato casseroles with sausage are a staple in many European cuisines, particularly in Germany and Eastern Europe, where smoked meats and hearty potatoes are common. This Americanized version leans into comfort food territory with its creamy cheese sauce, making it a cozy classic for family meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw potatoes instead of boiling first?
No, the potatoes need to be par-cooked before baking so they don’t turn out hard.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Any smoked sausage works—kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a larger casserole dish and increase baking time by about 10–15 minutes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the cheese sauce.
How do I know it’s done baking?
The top should be bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole should be hot all the way through.
Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sliced potatoes. Boil for 8–10 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced smoked sausage and chopped onion until the sausage is browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, garlic powder, and paprika, and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, gently combine the boiled potatoes, cooked sausage and onion, and cheese sauce until everything is well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
