Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Sausage and Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned sausage, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a hearty meal on a chilly evening. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, making it a staple for home cooks everywhere.
Let’s dive into the details of this classic dish, covering everything from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, tips for variations, and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Preparation: Minimal prep time with simple, everyday ingredients.
Customizable: You can swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs.
Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients
To make a classic Sausage and Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following:
For the Base:
1 lb (450g) sausage (ground or links, any variety)
6 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
1 medium onion (chopped)
For the Sauce:
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup (240ml) milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles if using ground sausage. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Slice Potatoes
Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch thick) to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Top with half of the onions and half of the cooked sausage. Pour half of the sauce over the layers. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
6. Add Topping
Combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for Success
Potato Thickness: Ensure the potato slices are uniform to prevent uneven cooking.
Sausage Choices: Experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian, breakfast sausage, or even chicken sausage, to alter the flavor profile.
Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage and Potato Casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh bread. For a hearty breakfast option, serve it with scrambled eggs and fruit on the side.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty ingredients into a meal full of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner with family, this recipe guarantees satisfaction.
Conclusion
Sausage and Potato Casserole is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its combination of tender potatoes, savory sausage, creamy sauce, and crispy topping is irresistible. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and experience the magic of a classic comfort food!