After a long day, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen? This Cheesy Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole is one of those comforting, no-fuss recipes that feels like a warm hug. Packed with crispy smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce—this is the kind of dish your whole family will ask for again and again.
It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table without a fuss—kids love the gooey cheese, adults appreciate the savory sausage, and the creamy sauce ties it all together. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a hearty weekend dinner, this dish checks every box.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – minimal prep, big payoff
- Uses pantry staples – nothing fancy required
- Creamy, cheesy, and ultra comforting
- Make-ahead friendly – even better the next day
- Customizable – add veggies or different cheeses
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6–8)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 2½ cups russet potatoes, boiled and diced
- 4½ tablespoons butter
- 4½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups half-and-half or milk
- ½ tablespoon paprika
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
How to Make Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, flipping as needed.
Once browned, remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Base
Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Add the cooked potatoes and browned sausage slices to the dish, spreading them out evenly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the half-and-half or milk, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken.
Add in paprika, salt, pepper, Velveeta, and cheddar cheese.
Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the baking dish.
Sprinkle with additional shredded cheese if desired.
Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let it cool slightly before serving.
This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own—just add a simple salad or steamed veggie on the side.
Tips for Success
- Boil your potatoes until just fork-tender—they’ll cook more in the oven
- Don’t skip the paprika—it adds warmth and depth
- Velveeta melts perfectly, but you can sub in cream cheese or all cheddar
- Add in frozen peas or broccoli for a full one-dish meal
FAQs
Can I use different sausages?
Yes! Try kielbasa, andouille, or even spicy Italian sausage for a twist.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it in the morning, refrigerate, and bake at dinnertime.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze before or after baking. Just reheat fully before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy, cozy, and packed with flavor—this casserole is a true kitchen hero. It turns humble ingredients into something everyone at the table will be excited about, and the best part? It doesn’t take much time or effort to pull off.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that doubles as a warm, nostalgic comfort food, this Cheesy Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole should be at the top of your list. Serve it once and it might just become a family favorite.
Share Your Creation
Made this hearty casserole? Tag #CheesySausageCasserole on Instagram or Pinterest and show off your bubbly, golden masterpiece!
Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb smoked sausage thinly sliced
- 2½ cups russet potatoes boiled and diced
- 4½ tablespoons butter
- 4½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups half-and-half or milk
- ½ tablespoon paprika
- ½ cup cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup Velveeta cheese cubed
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, flipping as needed.
- Once browned, remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Base
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Add the cooked potatoes and browned sausage slices to the dish, spreading them out evenly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the half-and-half or milk, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken.
- Add in paprika, salt, pepper, Velveeta, and cheddar cheese.
- Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
- This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own—just add a simple salad or steamed veggie on the side.
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