Description
Comforting cheesy potato & smoked sausage casserole brings hearty midwest warmth to dinner tables with its creamy layers and smoky flavors. Potatoes, sausage, and melted cheese combine in one satisfying dish perfect for family gatherings or casual weekend meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb (454 grams) smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb (227 grams) Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups half & half or milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
Seasoning Ingredients:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Slice smoked sausage into bite-sized medallions and brown in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until edges caramelize and develop a rich golden color.
- Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with a light coating of non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt butter in the same skillet used for sausage, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Whisk flour into melted butter, creating a roux that will help thicken the sauce and provide a velvety texture.
- Gradually pour half & half into the roux, continuously whisking to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add Velveeta cheese to the sauce, stirring until completely melted and integrated, creating a rich and silky cheese sauce.
- Season the sauce with paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Transfer browned sausage and potatoes into the prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the sausage and potatoes, coating all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese across the top of the casserole for an additional layer of cheesy goodness.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35-45 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Notes
- Optimize Sausage Flavor by choosing high-quality smoked sausage with robust smoky notes that complement the creamy potato base.
- Prevent Potato Sticking by ensuring potatoes are evenly coated with oil and spread out in the baking dish to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting regular flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend to maintain sauce thickness without compromising texture.
- Enhance Nutritional Profile by adding diced bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and increased nutritional value without altering the dish’s core flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg