Name: Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded; 1 small yellow onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously rich and comforting dish that embodies the very essence of home-cooked goodness, look no further than this Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole. As the layers of tender potatoes meld beautifully with the smoky and savory kielbasa sausage, this dish transforms into a cozy casserole that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight dinner or a family gathering on the weekend, this hearty meal will delight the taste buds of everyone at the table.

This easy-to-make casserole features a creamy sauce that enhances the flavors of the ingredients, offering a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. With every bite, you’ll experience the satisfaction of gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, perfectly complimenting the savory sausage and fresh potatoes. It’s a balanced meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with comfort, perfect for those moments when you crave something hearty.

What stands out about this casserole recipe is its simplicity and versatility. In about an hour and fifteen minutes, you can whip up a remarkable dish that serves eight, ensuring that there’s enough to go around—even for those hungry mouths! So roll up your sleeves and let’s delve into the details of this mouth-watering casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Hearty & Satisfying: This dish offers a complete meal in one pan, filling you up with wonderful flavors and nutrition.
Easy Preparation: Perfect for weekdays! Just a few simple steps deliver comfort food excellence.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky kielbasa, creamy sauces, and melty cheese creates an irresistible taste.
Flexibility: Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin creating your Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. First, ensure you have a clean and organized workspace to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Here are some key tools you will need:

9×13-inch baking dish: This is perfect for layering your delicious ingredients and enables even cooking.
Skillet: Ideal for browning the kielbasa and sautéing the onions and garlic for enhanced flavors.
Large mixing bowl: This will allow you to combine the creamy sauce and other ingredients effectively.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping potatoes, vegetables, and sausage uniformly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is essential, especially when working with spices and liquids.

Once your tools are in place, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish to ensure an easy release after baking. Wash and cube your potatoes so they are ready to be parboiled. This step can enhance their texture, helping them absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Ingredients

2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which will provide the perfect baking environment for your casserole. While the oven heats, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it generously to prevent sticking. This ensures easy serving and cleanup later on.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

Next, peel and cube your potatoes into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Rinse the cubes under cold water to remove excess starch, which can lead to gummy texture. If desired, you can parboil these potato cubes for about 8 to 10 minutes in salted water. This step helps to soften them slightly, preparing them to soak in the sauce’s incredible flavor during baking. After parboiling, drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Step 3: Brown the Kielbasa

To enhance the flavor of your casserole, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced kielbasa. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, allowing them to caramelize nicely. This process develops a rich, smoky flavor that becomes the backbone of your dish.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion. Sauté for around 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Finally, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. These ingredients are essential for layering on the flavor profile.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. This creamy concoction brings richness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Step 6: Mix in the Cheeses

With your sauce ready, fold in 1 ½ cups of sharp cheddar and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. The more cheese, the better—mix well so it becomes a cohesive, cheesy wonder.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish

In the prepared baking dish, combine the parboiled potatoes, browned kielbasa, sautéed onions, and garlic. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, and gently mix everything together to ensure that the potatoes and sausages are well-coated with the delicious sauce.

Step 8: Layer with Cheese

To take your casserole over the top, sprinkle the remaining amounts of cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture. This will create that irresistible, gooey top layer.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden, bubbly top and fork-tender potatoes.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes portioning easier. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Variations

Protein: Swap out kielbasa for chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian sausage for different flavor profiles.
Vegetables: Add in mixed veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning or Cajun spice for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

For a buttery flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect, while russets lend themselves to a fluffier texture.
Ensure to brown the kielbasa effectively for the best flavor infusion throughout the casserole.
Let the casserole set for a few moments after baking to allow the sauce to thicken properly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
Serve it alongside garlic bread for an additional indulgent touch.

Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting and flavor rather than pre-packaged varieties.
For an extra crispy top, broil for a couple of minutes after baking, just until golden.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 550
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole beforehand, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Just ensure it’s thoroughly cooled before wrapping and freezing it. When you’re ready to eat, allow it to thaw before baking.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are ideal; however, you can also use gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.

Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?

Definitely! Substitute the kielbasa with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth in the sauce to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is sure to become a cherished part of your family meals and gatherings. With its simple preparation, rich flavors, and delightful textures, it exemplifies comfort food at its best. The versatility of ingredients means you can make it your own, adding different proteins, veggies, or spices to suit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to share your experience with this recipe, and feel free to comment below with your variations or any questions you may have. Happy cooking!