Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that combines hearty smoked sausage, tender potatoes, rich melted cheese, and savory seasonings into one deliciously satisfying bake. It hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, smoky, and filling — perfect for family dinners, potlucks, weekend meals, or even holiday sides.
This casserole is a crowd-favorite because it’s deceptively simple to make, yet packed with bold flavor. The combination of smoky sausage and creamy potatoes gives you both protein and comfort carbs in every bite, while the cheesy sauce wraps it all in irresistible richness. Whether you’re serving this as a main course or a side, it’s bound to become a requested recipe in your kitchen.
In this guide, you’ll find the full list of ingredients, step-by-step directions, flavor variations, tips for success, and ideas for serving and storage.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves About 6–8)
Main Components
- 1.5–2 pounds smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced
- 3 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheesy Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard or dry mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping (Optional but Recommended)
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- ½–1 cup crushed crunchy topping (like crushed crackers or breadcrumbs)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions :
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with butter or cooking spray. This keeps the casserole from sticking and helps the bottom layer cook evenly.
2. Par-Cook the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, just until the potatoes are fork-tender but still firm — you don’t want them falling apart.
Drain well and set aside.
3. Brown the Sausage and Onions
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes, letting the edges brown lightly. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the browned sausage to the pan, stir to combine with the onions and garlic, then remove from heat.
4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux — this helps thicken the sauce.
Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Add smoked paprika, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, combine the cooked potatoes and sausage-onion mixture. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, gently folding to coat the ingredients.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the casserole.
For added texture and flavor, top with a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
6. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the edges are slightly crisp.
If you want an extra-crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve without spilling.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for brightness and a pop of color.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Sausage
Smoked sausage varieties like kielbasa, andouille, or smoked Polish sausage work well here because they add robust flavor. If you prefer milder notes, you can use a milder sausage or cut back on seasoning.
Don’t Overcook the Potatoes
Par-cooking the potatoes ensures they finish baking in the casserole without turning mushy. You want them soft enough to eat but firm enough to hold their shape.
Even Cheese Distribution
Using two types of cheese gives you both flavor and melty texture. Mix a mild cheese with sharp cheddar for balance.
Crunchy Topping
The optional cracker or breadcrumb topping adds texture and contrast to the creamy casserole. You can toss crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before adding for extra golden crunch.
Flavor Variations
Need a twist? Try one of these:
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Add cooked, crumbled bacon on top.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for aromatic depth.
Perfect Pairings
This cheesy casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread
- Citrus fruit salad for a refreshing side
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. The flavors continue to meld and taste even better the next day.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating helps keep the sauce smooth.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why This Dish Works So Well
This casserole hits all the notes that make comfort food irresistible:
- Creamy, cheesy sauce that envelopes every bite
- Smoky sausage flavor for depth and richness
- Tender potatoes that soak up the sauce
- Balanced textures with a golden, crunchy topping
- Full-meal satisfaction with protein, carbs, and savory goodness
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table — hearty, rich, and universally loved.
Conclusion :
Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a potluck, or planning a cozy weekend meal, this casserole delivers bold smoky flavor, creamy cheesy texture, and satisfying heartiness in every bite.
With easy preparation and ingredients that come together in one pan, this recipe is both approachable and impressive. The smoky sausage and tender potatoes blend seamlessly with the rich cheese sauce, while the optional crunchy topping adds a golden finish that elevates the entire dish.
Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen — the kind of meal everyone asks for again and again.
