Description
Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that satisfies your cravings? Look no further than this delectable Cheese, Potato, and Smoked Sausage Casserole. Packed with flavor and easy to make, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering delight.
Ingredients
- 3 cups peeled cubed Russet potatoes, boiled until soft but not mushy
- 1 lb smoked sausage*, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups half & half or milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Sauté the Smoked Sausage: Begin by sautéing the thinly sliced smoked sausage in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Use a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the sausage until it browns slightly, ensuring it’s cooked evenly. This step enhances the flavor profile of the casserole.
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the boiled potatoes and sautéed sausage into the casserole dish, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. This creates a hearty base for your casserole.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet used for sautéing the sausage, increase the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, allowing it to cook for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually add half and half or milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. This forms the creamy base of your casserole.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the sauce, ensuring the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. This rich and flavorful cheese sauce adds depth to the casserole.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Bake the casserole at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35-45 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden brown. This final step melds all the flavors together, resulting in a satisfying, indulgent dish.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this delicious casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Leftovers:
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips:
- To maintain the creamy texture of the casserole when reheating, add a splash of milk or half and half before reheating.
- Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from over-browning and heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated to your liking.
- Customization Ideas:
- Customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to vary the flavor profile. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella would all be delicious additions or substitutions.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Make-Ahead Option:
- Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. This makes meal prep a breeze, especially for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Simply pop it in the oven when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
