Description
A comforting Cheesy Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole featuring tender boiled Russet potatoes, browned smoked sausage, and a rich, creamy Velveeta cheese sauce topped with sharp cheddar cheese and smoked paprika. Baked to golden perfection, this hearty dish is ideal for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Potatoes & Sausage
- 3 cups peeled cubed Russet potatoes, boiled until soft but not mushy
- 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups half &; half or milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing sausage)
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the thinly sliced smoked sausage, flipping and stirring occasionally until browned and slightly crispy. Remove from heat once browned.
- Prepare the Casserole Base: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the boiled cubed potatoes and the browned sausage into the dish, gently stirring just enough to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Make the Roux and Sauce: Increase the skillet heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, whisking constantly to eliminate the floury taste. Gradually pour in the half & half or milk, about 1/4 to 1/2 cup at a time, whisking continuously to blend smoothly without lumps. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens to a creamy sauce consistency.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir the cubed Velveeta cheese, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper into the thickened sauce. Stir occasionally over low heat until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and Top: Pour the cheesy sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Recipe adapted from Modern Day Moms.
- Use half & half for a richer sauce or milk for a lighter version.
- For extra smoky flavor, opt for a smoked sausage variety you enjoy.
- Ensure potatoes are boiled until tender but not mushy to maintain texture in the casserole.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving as it will be very hot coming out of the oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1178mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 97mg
