Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs golden or russet potatoes, diced
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried parsley
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground mustard (optional for extra flavor)
For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes & Sausage
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Remove sausage and set aside. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, toss diced potatoes with paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard.
- Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the potatoes.
- Add half of the browned sausage, then pour half of the cheese sauce over it.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and cheese sauce.
- Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with a side of green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
- Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and utterly comforting meal!
Notes
Recipe Variations & Add-Ins
🔹 Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a little heat.
🔹 Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
🔹 Swap the Cheese: Use smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a flavor twist.
🔹 Use a Different Protein: Substitute chicken, ham, or bacon instead of sausage.