A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring creamy, cheesy potatoes and savory smoked sausage. Perfect for a hearty brunch, potluck, or easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (26 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on sausage/soup sodium)
- 1 pound smoked turkey sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, parsley
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Thawed shredded hash browns
Sour cream
Cream of mushroom soup
Salt and pepper
2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese
Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: First Bake
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and the mixture is bubbling.
Step 5: Add Sausage & Cheese Topping
Carefully remove the casserole from the oven.
Top evenly with the sliced smoked sausage and the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Final Bake
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sausage is heated through.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because:
- It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients.
- It’s a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for any occasion.
- The combination of creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and cheesy goodness is irresistible.
- It can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or toppings.
- It’s a great make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.
- It can easily be scaled up or down to feed a larger or smaller crowd.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Enjoy as a hearty brunch dish alongside eggs and toast.
- Bring to potlucks or family gatherings.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Add a sprinkle of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips:
- Be sure to thaw hash browns fully and pat them dry to avoid a watery casserole.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, turkey sausage, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 – 15 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Approximate, may vary based on specific ingredients)
- Calories: 450-550 per serving (estimated)
- Protein: 25-30g per serving (estimated)
- Sodium: Varies depending on sausage and soup. Choose lower sodium options to control the salt content.
Conclusion
This Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its ease of preparation and customizable nature make it a winner for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
- A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the smoked turkey sausage with your favorite type of sausage, such as kielbasa, Italian sausage, or even chorizo for a spicier kick.
- Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
- Q: What other vegetables can I add to this casserole?
- A: The possibilities are endless! Some great additions include diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or even corn.
- Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
- A: Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- A: Of course! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
