Cheese, Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole
This Cheese, Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that combines creamy sliced potatoes, smoky sausage, and melty sharp cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings offering a savory, filling, and nostalgic meal everyone will love.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Potatoes
- 4–5 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, thinly sliced
Smoked Sausage
- 12 oz smoked sausage, diced into bite-sized pieces
Cheese
- 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (or cheese blend)
Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream or milk
Fats & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Extras
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish
- Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the potatoes to ensure even cooking. Dice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the onions and garlic. This prep work sets the stage for a perfectly textured casserole.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then toss in the smoked sausage until it develops a slight crispness and releases its beautiful smoky aroma.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then add a layer of the sausage and onion mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up, ensuring the top layer is potatoes for a crispy finish.
- Pour the Cream and Cheese: Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered casserole for that luscious, creamy texture. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese on top, covering the casserole to create a golden crust while baking.
- Bake Until Golden: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-55 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, the cheese is bubbly, and the top is beautifully browned.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking to set. This resting time helps the layers hold together when served and concentrates the flavors.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistent potato slice thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Sautéing sausage and onions before assembling enhances flavors and prevents sogginess.
- Season each layer lightly with salt and pepper for balanced taste throughout.
- If the top browns too fast, loosely cover the casserole with foil midway through baking.
- Sharp Cheddar or similar cheeses add more robust flavor than milder options.
- Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps prevent it from falling apart.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6th of casserole)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: casserole, cheese casserole, potato casserole, smoked sausage, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free