If you’re searching for pure comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and absolutely mouthwatering, look no further than this Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole. Imagine layers of tender potatoes, cozy smoked sausage, and a blanket of melted cheese—all baked together until perfectly golden and bubbling. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend treat. I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my family—it disappeared in minutes and has since become a staple at our dinner table!
What makes this casserole truly stand out is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you get a hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour. It’s similar to my ever-popular Chicken & Rice Bake, but with a smoky, savory twist that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a lifelong fan, this dish is guaranteed to win your heart (and your tastebuds). Let’s dive in and discover why it’s a must-try for your next meal!
What is Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole?
Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole—now there’s a name that tells you everything you need to know! Isn’t it funny how some recipes sound like a grocery list and a warm hug all at once? This hearty casserole earned its name because it highlights all the best parts: savory smoked sausage, gooey cheese, and tender potatoes baked together in perfect harmony. They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I promise, serving this will get you there in no time. Ready to fall in love with dinner again? Give this casserole a try and see for yourself why it’s a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This
The magic of this recipe lies in its main highlight: the combination of smoky sausage and creamy, cheesy potatoes, delivering comfort and flavor in every bite. Making it at home saves you a bundle compared to picking up takeout or buying a store-bought casserole, without sacrificing any of the rich, homemade taste. Plus, the simple ingredients—like sharp cheddar, sour cream, and frozen hash browns—are budget-friendly and easy to find.
The savory topping of bubbly cheese and a dash of fresh parsley takes everything over the top. It reminds me of my Loaded Potato Bake, but swapping bacon for smoked sausage brings a unique depth of flavor that’s completely crave-worthy. If you love cheesy, hearty meals, this recipe will hit the spot. Why not roll up your sleeves and try making this cozy classic tonight?
How to Make
Quick Overview
This Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole couldn’t be easier—or more delicious! You’ll fall in love with the creamy texture, smoky flavor, and golden cheesy crust that make every bite irresistible. Even on your busiest days, prep takes just 15 minutes and the rest is hands-off baking time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or warming up a chilly evening, this casserole offers homestyle comfort with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups smoked sausage, sliced into 1⁄2-inch rounds
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1⁄2 cup whole milk
- 1⁄2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the sliced smoked sausage for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even color. Set aside once golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Add the thawed hash browns, browned sausage, chopped onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Pour the casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese across the top for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- For an extra-crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep a close watch to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
What to Serve With
This casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli for a lighter touch. For heartier appetites, serve with warm buttermilk biscuits or a slice of crusty bread to mop up every bit of creamy goodness. A simple fruit salad or a glass of iced tea rounds out the meal for a cozy family dinner everyone will remember.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have smoked sausage, feel free to use kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even diced ham for a different twist. You can also opt for reduced-fat cheese or sour cream for a lighter version.
- Timing: Be sure to fully thaw your hash browns before mixing—they’ll bake more evenly and keep your casserole from turning out watery.
- Amp Up Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne for a spicy kick, or swap in Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a new cheese profile.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cheese topping in the last few minutes, especially if using the broiler, to avoid burning.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it (covered) in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready for an effortless dinner.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, cool the casserole completely and transfer into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2–3 minutes, or bake covered in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. For best texture, avoid reheating in a high-powered microwave, as this can make the potatoes rubbery. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Dice them into small cubes and parboil for a few minutes before assembling so they cook through evenly.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble it a day in advance, just cover and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and double-check that your sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free.
What other cheeses work well in this dish?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack all melt beautifully and add their own unique touch.
How do I add vegetables to this casserole?
Stir in diced bell peppers, baby spinach, or broccoli florets for extra flavor and color.
Conclusion
Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s warm, satisfying, and practically foolproof—perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. With simple ingredients and unbeatable flavor, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Don’t forget to check out more casserole recipes on the blog, and be sure to share your own twist or favorite toppings in the comments. Happy cooking!
Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole
Equipment
-
9×13 inch Baking Dish
-
Skillet
-
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
-
In a skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the sliced smoked sausage for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even color. Set aside once golden.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
-
Add the thawed hash browns, browned sausage, chopped onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
-
Pour the casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese across the top for a delicious cheesy crust.
-
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
-
For an extra-crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep a close watch to avoid burning.
-
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
Smoked Sausage & Cheesy Potato Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups Frozen diced hash brown potatoes Thawed
- 2 cups Smoked sausage Sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1.5 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1 can Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 0.5 cup Whole milk
- 0.5 cup Chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Melted
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika Optional
- 1 teaspoon Fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the sliced smoked sausage for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally for even color. Set aside once golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. Stir until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Add the thawed hash browns, browned sausage, chopped onion, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Pour the casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese across the top for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- For an extra-crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for an additional 2–3 minutes—just keep a close watch to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.