Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

why make this recipe

Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that blends hearty elements perfectly. It’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep time and offers maximum flavor. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal packed with protein and cheesy goodness that everyone will love.

how to make Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 package (26 ounces) shredded hash browns
• 1 cup sour cream
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced

Directions:

1. Pour shredded hash browns into a large mixing bowl.
2. Spread sour cream and cream of mushroom soup over the hash browns. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Stir until well combined.
3. Mix 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture and stir well.
4. Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13 baking dish.
5. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
6. Top the baked casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the sliced smoked sausage.
7. Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is fully melted.

how to serve Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Serve this casserole hot out of the oven, garnished with some fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a comforting lunch or dinner.

how to store Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the hash brown mixture.
• If you want a crispy topping, try broiling the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
• Use different types of cheese for a twist on the flavor, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using different types of sausage, like turkey or chicken sausage, for a lighter option. You can also substitute fresh potatoes for the frozen hash browns if you prefer to make it from scratch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, you can peel and shred fresh potatoes instead of using frozen hash browns. Just make sure to cook them briefly to soften them before mixing.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the smoked sausage and add more vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, for a delicious vegetarian version.