Cheesy Sausage Potato Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Cheesy Sausage Potato Casserole is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. As I prepare this delightful casserole, I can’t help but think of the countless family gatherings where this recipe has been the star of the show. Originating from the heart of home-cooked meals, this casserole combines the rich flavors of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes, creating a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

People love this Cheesy Sausage Potato Casserole not only for its mouthwatering flavor but also for its convenience. It’s a one-dish wonder that makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole is sure to impress and satisfy. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that has become a beloved staple in many households!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the sausage and onions)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Potatoes**: Peel the russet potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes. This helps them cook uniformly. You can soak them in cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients. 3. **Chop the Onion**: Dice the medium onion into small pieces. This will add flavor to the casserole and complement the sausage beautifully. 4. **Shred the Cheese**: If you’re using block cheese, shred about 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese.

Cooking the Sausage and Onions

5. **Cook the Sausage**: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. 6. **Add the Onions**: Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onions to the skillet. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the sausage and adds a nice sweetness from the onions. 7. **Season the Mixture**: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Cook for an additional minute to let the spices bloom.

Preparing the Casserole Mixture

8. **Combine the Eggs and Milk**: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and add 1 cup of milk. Whisk them together until well combined. If you want a creamier texture, you can also mix in 1/2 cup of sour cream at this stage. 9. **Add the Potatoes**: Drain the diced potatoes if you soaked them. Add the potatoes to the egg and milk mixture, stirring gently to coat them evenly. 10. **Incorporate the Sausage Mixture**: Add the cooked sausage and onion mixture to the bowl with the potatoes. Mix everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the egg mixture and the sausage is evenly distributed. 11. **Add Cheese**: Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping later. This will give the casserole a cheesy flavor throughout.

Assembling the Casserole

12. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking. 13. **Transfer the Mixture**: Pour the potato, sausage, and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. 14. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Casserole

15. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should easily pierce through the potatoes. 16. **Let it Rest**: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut into squares.

Serving the Casserole

17. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Sausage Potato Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or friends with a hearty, comforting dish. The combination of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and tender potatoes creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the sausage for bacon or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Adding in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can also elevate the dish and add a pop of color and nutrition. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own! Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how your Cheesy Sausage Potato Casserole turned out and any unique twists you added. Happy cooking! Print