If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe is just what you need. Creamy, savory, with melt-in-your-mouth potatoes and smoky sausage, it’s the perfect casserole to satisfy hunger and bring smiles around the table every time.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Ultimate Comfort Food: This casserole combines creamy cheese sauce, tender potatoes, and smoky sausage for a soothing, soul-warming meal.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need fancy components—just a few staples that come together beautifully.
< One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish fits right in and impresses with its richness and hearty texture.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each contributing something special to the dish’s texture, flavor, and visual appeal. From creamy cheeses to smoky sausage and fluffy potatoes, every bite bursts with deliciousness.
- Russet Potatoes: They hold up well when boiled and absorb the cheese sauce perfectly for that creamy texture you want.
- Smoked Sausage: Adds a tender, smoky bite that elevates the overall flavor—feel free to swap with kielbasa or andouille for a twist.
- Velveeta Cheese & Sharp Cheddar: Velveeta melts beautifully into a silky sauce, while sharp cheddar adds depth and a slightly tangy kick.
- Half & Half or Milk: Half & half will give you an ultra-rich sauce, but whole milk also works well if you’re aiming for something lighter.
- Smoked Paprika: This little spice not only boosts the smoky vibe but also adds a gentle warmth and vibrant color.
- Butter & Flour: The classic duo for thickening your cheese sauce into gooey perfection.
How to Make Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Smoked Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-low heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Toss in the thinly sliced smoked sausage and cook, flipping often, until the edges are browned and the aroma fills your kitchen. This browning step adds an irresistible caramelized flavor that’s essential for the casserole’s depth.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base
Once your sausage has that gorgeous color and savory bite, transfer it into your lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish along with the boiled, tender but still firm cubed potatoes. Give it a gentle stir so everything is evenly scattered—this helps every spoonful get a mouthwatering mix of meat and potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, crank the heat up to medium and melt your butter. As soon as it’s shimmering, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about a minute to cook away any raw flour taste—this makes your sauce silky and smooth. Then, gradually pour in the half & half (or milk), whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Let it simmer and thicken into a luscious base perfect for melting cheese.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses & Seasoning
Stir cubed Velveeta cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into your thickened sauce. Keep stirring gently as the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce. The sharp cheddar cheese will then be sprinkled on top just before baking for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour that cheesy sauce evenly over your potato and sausage combo in the casserole dish. Make sure every nook and cranny gets some of this goodness. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar on top and pop it into a 350°F oven. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when poked and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this dish from cozy to restaurant-worthy. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a lively, herbaceous contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a scattering of green onions also adds fresh creaminess and a little brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is satisfyingly filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables. For an extra touch, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that cheesy, smoky sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve this casserole family-style in a decorated casserole dish straight from the oven, letting the melted cheese glisten under a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For a fun twist, individual ramekins can make cute single servings, ideal for a festive holiday or casual dinner party setup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When stored properly, the casserole’s flavors continue to meld, making the leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully—perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil, or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). For a quicker option, microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and creamy goodness.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of sausage in the Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage is traditional and adds a lovely smoky depth, you can swap it for kielbasa, andouille, or even cooked breakfast sausage for different but equally delicious flavors.
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Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, smoked tofu, or seasoned plant-based sausage to maintain a hearty, savory profile.
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Can I use regular cheese instead of Velveeta in this recipe?
You can use processed cheese alternatives, but Velveeta is ideal because it melts smoothly without becoming grainy. If you prefer natural cheese, try combining mild cheddar with cream cheese to achieve a creamy texture.
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How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for the casserole to be golden and bubbly on top, with potatoes tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Baking time is usually 35-45 minutes at 350°F, but ovens vary, so keep an eye on the top browning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels like home, and this Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe delivers just that. Whether it’s a weekly dinner tradition or an occasional indulgence, it’s sure to become one of your favorites. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor every gooey, cheesy, smoky bite with the people you love!
Print
Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. It features tender boiled Russet potatoes and smoky sausage enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with Velveeta and sharp cheddar, seasoned with smoked paprika. Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole delivers warm, savory flavors with a satisfying cheesy texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Sausage
- 3 cups peeled cubed Russet potatoes, boiled until soft but not mushy
- 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose 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
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing sausage)
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced smoked sausage and cook, flipping and stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned but not crispy. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Baking Dish and Combine: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the boiled potatoes and browned sausage into the casserole dish. Stir gently just enough to distribute them evenly.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Increase the skillet heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, whisking constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the half & half (or milk) in 1/4 to 1/2 cup increments, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Continue cooking the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, golden on top, and the potatoes are fork tender.
Notes
- Recipe adapted from Modern Day Moms.
- Use half & half for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth, but you can adjust the quantity to taste.
- For easier cleanup, line the baking dish with foil before spraying with cooking spray.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
