Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This comforting casserole features sliced smoked sausage nestled in layers of creamy hash browns, sour cream, and a rich cream of mushroom blend. Cheddar cheese adds golden meltiness in each bite, while simple seasoning gives just the right touch of flavor. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, then topped with extra cheese and smoked sausage for a hearty finish. Easy to prepare, it can be served straight from the oven for a satisfying meal and is just as delicious reheated, making it a favorite for both busy nights and family gatherings.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Tue, 15 Jul 2025 16:55:38 GMT
A dish of smoked sausage and cheesy potato casserole. Save
A dish of smoked sausage and cheesy potato casserole. | lilicooks.com

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
A close up of a delicious smoked sausage and cheesy potato casserole. Save
A close up of a delicious smoked sausage and cheesy potato casserole. | lilicooks.com

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

A casserole with sausage and cheese on top. Save
A casserole with sausage and cheese on top. | lilicooks.com

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.

Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Smoked sausage and creamy potatoes baked under melted cheddar for a rich, filling family dinner.

Preparation Time
12 min
Cooking Time
50 min
Overall Time
62 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 8 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 package (26 ounces) shredded hash browns
02 1 cup sour cream
03 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
04 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
05 1/2 teaspoon pepper
06 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
07 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced

Steps

Step 01

Pour shredded hash browns into a large mixing bowl.

Step 02

Spread sour cream and cream of mushroom soup over the hash browns. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Stir until well combined.

Step 03

Mix 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture and stir well.

Step 04

Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of a lightly greased 9x13 baking dish.

Step 05

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.

Step 06

Top the baked casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the sliced smoked sausage.

Step 07

Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is fully melted.

Tips

  1. Ensure that the frozen shredded hash browns are separated before use to ensure even cooking. Break up any clumps with a butter knife if necessary.
  2. Use a large mixing bowl to combine the ingredients thoroughly, as the volume of ingredients requires ample space.
  3. This recipe can easily be halved by using a smaller pan or reducing the baking time in the same size pan.
  4. Cubed cheese can substitute shredded cheese if any leftovers are available from a cheese tray.
  5. Sausage slices can be cut to your preferred thickness.
  6. This casserole makes excellent freezer meals and reheats well for quick lunches during the week.

Required Tools

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Silicone Spatula
  • Measuring Cups

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Dairy (cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup)
  • Gluten (cream of mushroom soup may contain gluten unless specified gluten-free)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 455
  • Fats: 36 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Proteins: 21 g