Smoked Sausage Cheesy Potato

This smoked sausage cheesy potato casserole is pure comfort food—ideal for busy weeknights or chilly weekends when you crave something simple and satisfying. Every bite wraps you in creamy potatoes and gooey cheddar, with smoky sausage adding that just-right hearty touch.

I whipped this up on a hectic weeknight with nothing but a bag of hash browns and smoked sausage on hand and it instantly became a staple my family requests whenever they are in need of a little homey comfort.

Ingredients

• Shredded hash browns: perfect for a fluffy yet creamy base look for a bag where the potatoes are not freezer burned or clumped together
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess the full fat variety delivers the silkiest result
• Cream of mushroom soup: builds richness and a savory note use a classic brand or go for a low sodium version if you prefer
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings stretchy melty comfort sharp cheddar reins in the best flavor so try to buy freshly shredded cheese from the block
• Salt and pepper: seasons and balances the creamy filling a pinch of salt is optional if your sausage is quite salty
• Smoked sausage: sliced into coins for smoky robust flavor look for ones with a speckled appearance and a rich aroma

Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:

Pour the full bag of shredded hash browns into a large mixing bowl break up any clumps so the potatoes are light and even for mixing

Combine Wet Ingredients:

Dollop in the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup scatter the salt and pepper over the potatoes Use a large spoon to fold everything together fully coating the potatoes so every bite is creamy

Mix in Cheese:

Sprinkle in two cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir again making sure the cheese is evenly woven throughout the mixture

Spread in Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter or nonstick spray spoon in the potato mixture and spread it out to reach all corners creating an even layer

Initial Bake:

Place the dish on the middle rack of a preheated 350 degree oven Bake for 35 minutes so the potatoes soften and the flavors meld together

Add Toppings:

Carefully remove the dish and top it with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese Scatter the sliced smoked sausage across the top arranging for even coverage

Final Bake:

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 more minutes Wait until the casserole is bubbling hot and the cheese topping is fully melted Slice into squares and serve hot

My favorite part is always the bubbly cheese that browns at the edge of the pan—it never fails to spark a childhood memory of scraping the last cheesy bits from my mom’s baking dish with a fork. Smoked sausage truly shines here as it delivers both flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

Storage Tips

Once cooled pack leftovers into airtight containers and they will last four days in the fridge For longer storage freeze individual servings and reheat in the microwave or a covered dish in the oven Keep some extra cheese nearby to sprinkle on top as it reheats for that freshly baked feeling

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in ham cubes or rotisserie chicken for the smoked sausage Try Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or another creamy soup like cream of chicken Mix up the cheese with Monterey Jack or gouda for a different twist

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad for balance or steamed green beans for a simple plate For brunch top it with a fried egg or serve alongside sweet fruit

Cultural Context

Potato casseroles like this have roots in Midwest potluck culture where gathering around a dish meant warmth and sharing Smoked sausage brings in a European touch transforming a basic potato bake into a rich celebration of hearty flavors

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer toss in diced bell peppers or fresh sweet corn For holidays add sage and a sprinkle of nutmeg Top with green onions and fresh herbs as a spring finishing touch

Success Stories

Families love sharing this at big Sunday dinners my nieces beg for second helpings every time It is one of those quietly iconic dishes that always vanishes before my eyes

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the casserole through the mixing step but do not bake Wrap tightly and freeze Label the date To cook later thaw overnight and follow the usual baking directions Add five to ten minutes as needed for cooking from cold

This casserole is always a family hit and makes even busy weeknights feel special. Let the gooey cheese and smoky flavors bring extra warmth to your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?

Yes, simply peel and shred fresh potatoes. Squeeze out excess moisture before combining with the other ingredients for the best texture.

→ What type of smoked sausage works best?

Kielbasa or andouille offer great flavor, but any fully cooked smoked sausage will complement the creamy potatoes.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake when ready to serve. Add the final cheese topping just before the second bake.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Diced bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can be mixed in for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté before adding if desired.