Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

If you’re anything like me, a comforting, hearty casserole is a go-to for those days when you want something that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole recipe is exactly that—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor that satisfies both your taste buds and your soul. There’s just something about the way tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and gooey cheese come together baked until golden that never fails to please a crowd.

What I love most is how versatile and easy this casserole is, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find that the mix of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese creates this silky sauce that clings to every bite, and the smoked paprika adds just the right hint of smoky depth. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole recipe, it’s going to be one of your family’s favorites too.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully with minimal fuss. I always recommend using Russet potatoes because they hold their shape nicely, and don’t forget to grab a good-quality smoked sausage for that deep, savory flavor.

• Russet potatoes: They boil up soft but keep just enough texture, perfect for casseroles that bake well without turning mushy.
• Smoked sausage: Pick your favorite kind, but the smoky flavor is key to this recipe’s comforting profile.
• Butter: Essential for the roux that thickens your cheese sauce — don’t skip it!
• Flour: Works with the butter to create a smooth, thick cheese sauce base.
• Half & half or milk: I find half & half makes the sauce luscious, but milk works fine if you want to lighten it up.
• Velveeta cheese: This melts into the creamiest, smoothest sauce—you’ll thank me later.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds that punch of classic cheesy flavor and a little extra meltiness on top.
• Smoked paprika: Just a pinch amps up the smoky notes to tie everything together.
• Salt & pepper: To taste — seasoning is everything here.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole recipe. It’s like a blank canvas—you can add veggies, try different cheeses, or even swap sausage types. Personalizing it to your family’s tastes makes it feel even more special.

• Vegetable Boost: I often toss in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for a pop of color and nutrition—my family barely notices but benefits from the extra greens.
• Cheese Swap: If sharp cheddar is too strong, try Monterey Jack or a smoky Gouda for a different flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you want a little heat—my husband loves when I do this!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the roux and double check your sausage ingredients to keep it safe for celiac diets.

How to Make Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Smoked Sausage to Enhance Flavor

Start by slicing your smoked sausage thinly and heating a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a tablespoon or two of olive oil and sauté the sausage pieces until they develop a nice golden brown color. This browning step is crucial—it deepens the flavor and gives the sausage a slightly crispy edge that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce later on. Be sure to flip and stir occasionally to brown them evenly without burning.

Step 2: Prep Your Baking Dish and Combine Main Ingredients

While the sausage cooks, lightly spray your 9×13″ casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Once your potatoes are boiled just soft enough—not falling apart—transfer them to the dish, then add the browned sausage. Gently stir to distribute everything evenly, but don’t overmix to avoid breaking up the potatoes. This gives you a nice layered texture in the final dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce Base

Turn the heat up to medium in that same skillet, add your butter, and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute, constantly stirring—it helps cook out the raw flour taste and starts building your roux. Slowly pour in half & half or milk by small increments, whisking steadily to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce. Keep cooking and whisking until it thickens to a creamy consistency. This part requires your attention, but it’s worth it for that velvety texture.

Step 4: Stir in Cheeses and Seasonings

With the sauce nice and thick, add your cubed Velveeta, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir occasionally as you let the Velveeta melt fully into the sauce—this creates the ultra-smooth, cheesy base that coats every bite. When everything looks glossy and combined, pour this luscious sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in your casserole dish. Finish by sprinkling shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into a 350°F oven and bake for 35-45 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know it’s ready when you see the cheese sauce bubbling up around the edges. This is when your kitchen fills with that irresistible cheesy, smoky aroma that makes waiting so worth it.

How to Serve Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top right before serving—it adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich casserole beautifully. A little crack of black pepper on top never hurts either!

Side Dishes

This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but I often serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to lighten up the plate. A side of crusty bread also works wonders to scoop up any cheesy goodness left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar and a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce. It feels a bit more festive and personal that way, plus it makes portioning foolproof at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge—it keeps beautifully for up to 3-4 days. When I reheat, I like to cover it with foil to prevent drying out and warm it gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

This casserole freezes surprisingly well! Just cover the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that creamy texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming leftovers in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the cheese sauce smooth and prevents the casserole from drying out, unlike microwave reheating which can sometimes make it a little rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole recipe has become such a comforting staple in my home—easy enough for a weeknight but cozy and indulgent enough to pull out for company too. If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug and makes everyone at the table smile, this one’s a no-brainer. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll soon be one of your favorite go-to casseroles!

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