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Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole truly brings together all of my family’s favorite comfort foods in one big hearty dish The combination of savory smoked sausage and creamy cheesy potatoes goes straight to the soul and makes this the kind of recipe you reach for on a chilly night when everyone needs something filling and familiar I have served this at family gatherings and even picky eaters go back for seconds
When I first made this on a busy weeknight I was instantly hooked by how simple the steps were and how rewarding that first cheesy bite tasted We now turn to this casserole whenever the craving strikes for something both comforting and satisfying
Ingredients
- Shredded hash browns: The frozen kind keeps things fast and they soak up the creamy flavors Choose a brand with no extra additives for pure potato taste
- Sour cream: Adds tangy richness and helps create a creamy sauce
- Cream of mushroom soup: Binds the casserole together and brings depth Look for one with a chunky texture and balanced flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Lots of it Choose sharp cheddar for the best cheesy flavor and meltability Grate your own if you want the freshest melt
- Pepper: Freshly ground gives the best kick
- Salt: Taste your mixture and adjust as you like Use kosher salt for even seasoning
- Smoked sausage: Sliced thick so each bite has a hearty chew Go for a good quality smoked sausage with visible specks of black pepper for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Hash Browns:
- Pour the bag of shredded hash browns into a large mixing bowl Make sure the pieces are separated and not frozen together Break up any clumps using a table knife if needed
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- Add sour cream and cream of mushroom soup into the bowl Sprinkle in the pepper and a little bit of salt Stir this mixture very well so every potato shred is evenly coated with the creamy sauce
- Add Cheese and Combine:
- Pour in two cups of the shredded cheddar cheese Reserve the last cup for topping Stir gently until the cheese is fully scattered through the potatoes and nothing is dry
- Bake the Base:
- Lightly grease a 9 by 13 baking pan Spread the entire mixture in an even layer across the pan Place in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for 35 minutes until the edges begin to bubble and the top takes on a pale golden hue
- Top with Smoked Sausage and Cheese:
- After the first bake pull the pan out Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top Arrange the sliced smoked sausage on top in an even layer Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes until the sausage is browned at the edges the cheese on top is fully melted and everything is piping hot
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My favorite part is the way the sausage crisps up on top during the second bake It reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house where everyone would battle over the pieces with the most cheese and sausage baked on
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before covering tightly and refrigerating It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days For longer storage portion into individual squares and freeze wrapped tightly in foil and stored in a freezer safe bag Defrost overnight in the fridge and rewarm in the oven or microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using cubed potatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even cheddar soup for a different base Feel free to toss in steamed broccoli or frozen peas to add vegetables For the cheese blend in Monterey Jack or Colby if cheddar is not available
Serving Suggestions
Serve piping hot directly from the pan as a main dish This casserole pairs nicely with a simple green salad or tangy pickles to balance the richness For a brunch version add a fried or poached egg on top If you are feeding a crowd slice into small squares for a hearty party side
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Cultural Context
Hearty casseroles like this became popular in the Midwest and South as a way to stretch ingredients and fill a table for a crowd Smoked sausage is a classic American favorite and pairing it with cheesy potatoes gives a satisfying twist on tradition I grew up seeing casseroles on every potluck table and this one never fails to disappear first
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, kielbasa or turkey sausage both work well and add their own unique taste to the dish.
- → Do I need to thaw the hash browns first?
It's best to thaw or break apart the hash browns before mixing so they cook evenly and quickly.
- → What is the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic for flavor and melt, but you can substitute Colby or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve for convenience.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick single servings.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly, freeze, then bake from frozen or thaw overnight for best results.