Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole

Here’s a cozy, comforting recipe for a Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole — creamy, flavorful, and easy to make ahead or bake fresh for dinner.

🧀 Cheesy Potato & Sausage Casserole

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15–20 min
Bake Time: 45–60 min

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced or diced

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes (or 4 cups cooked/diced potatoes)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for topping)

• ½–1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs, for topping (optional)

🥄 Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped green onions or bell pepper

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds depth)

• Hot sauce, to taste

🍽️ Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook sausage (if desired):
   For extra flavor, lightly brown the sliced sausage in a skillet for 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat.

3. Mix the base:
   In a large bowl, combine soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese, sausage, onion, and potatoes. Mix well.

4. Assemble the casserole:
   Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

5. Optional topping:
   Mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

6. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until hot and bubbly and top is golden. (If using raw diced potatoes, extend bake time ~15 minutes and cover with foil for the first 30.)

7. Cool slightly and serve warm.

🔄 Make-Ahead Tips:

• Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add topping right before baking.

• Freeze unbaked (without topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge, bake as directed.