If you’re craving something that perfectly combines creamy, cheesy comfort food with a hearty protein hit, then you absolutely have to try this Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in warmth from the very first bite—golden, tender potatoes bathed in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, all complemented by slices of smoky, savory sausage. This recipe feels like a cozy hug on a plate, and it’s wonderfully simple to pull together for any occasion when you want a crowd-pleaser that’s satisfyingly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, working together to create layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty russet potatoes to the creamy cheeses and the smoky sausage, each component is essential in elevating this dish from simple to spectacular.
- Russet potatoes, diced and peeled: The starchy potatoes become tender and creamy, perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Olive oil: Just a splash to brown the sausage and develop that irresistible smoky flavor.
- Smoked sausage, sliced: Brings a robust, meaty depth that complements the mellow potatoes beautifully.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth roux for the cheese sauce.
- All-purpose flour: The thickening star that turns your milk into a luscious sauce.
- Half-and-half or milk: Creates the creamy base of the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds just a hint of savory warmth that lifts all the cheesy goodness.
- Velveeta cheese, cubed: Melts into a silky, smooth texture that’s truly dreamy.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Gives a punch of tangy, melty flavor and a gorgeous golden crust on top.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every other flavor in the dish perfectly.
How to Make Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes and Baking Dish
Begin by lightly greasing a 9-inch square baking dish to ensure your cheesy potatoes won’t stick and will come out effortlessly when it’s time to serve. Then, place the diced, peeled russet potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Let them cook just until tender but not fully done, since they’ll continue cooking in the oven, giving you the perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
While the potatoes cook, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced smoked sausage and cook until each slice is nicely browned. This step intensifies the sausage’s smoky flavor and adds delicious, crispy edges. Remove the sausage from the skillet and layer it right on top of your par-cooked potatoes in the baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce Base
Wipe your skillet clean, then melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook while stirring for about a minute; this creates a smooth roux, which thickens your sauce. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half-and-half or milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer so the sauce starts to thicken. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for that subtle depth of flavor.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Turn the heat down to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts completely into a creamy dream. Then stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, letting it melt thoroughly, which adds both richness and a sharper bite. At this stage, give the sauce a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour your luscious cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the baking dish, making sure every bite will be coated in that velvety goodness. Sprinkle the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top for a beautiful golden crust once baked. Place the dish in a 350 degree oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.
How to Serve Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes add a bright contrast to this rich and hearty dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and a gentle herby freshness that complements the cheesy sauce and sausage perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Consider a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or some steamed green beans for a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cheesy potatoes with smoked sausage in individual ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties or family gatherings. You could also layer it as a casserole for a potluck or make a batch ahead to bake and serve at your next cozy night in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy potatoes with smoked sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep the moisture locked in and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. After baking and cooling completely, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through, which helps maintain that creamy, cheesy texture and prevents the sausage from drying out. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish to keep moisture in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta and sharp cheddar create the classic creamy and tangy combo for this recipe, you can experiment with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda to add your own twist.
Is it okay to use milk instead of half-and-half?
Yes, you can definitely use milk if you want a lighter sauce, though using half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream will give you a richer, creamier texture that really enhances the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the smoked sausage and add chopped mushrooms or smoked tofu for that savory depth, or load it up with your favorite veggies like bell peppers and onions.
How early can I prepare this dish before baking?
You can assemble the entire recipe a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge, covered, until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold.
What’s the best way to dice potatoes for this recipe?
Try to cut the potatoes into evenly sized 1-inch cubes so they cook uniformly and fit comfortably in your baking dish, ensuring everything finishes cooking nicely together.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort food to the next level, the Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe is a must-try. It’s cozy, rich, and bursting with flavor, perfect for family dinners or when you want to treat yourself to something truly satisfying. Grab those simple ingredients, whip up this recipe, and watch it become your new go-to comfort classic!
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Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting dish features tender, cheesy potatoes combined with smoky sausage and a rich velvety cheese sauce. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage is an indulgent family-friendly casserole that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Sausage
- 4 cups diced, peeled russet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 (14-ounce) package smoked sausage, sliced
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half or milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish ensuring the potatoes and sausage won’t stick during baking.
- Cook potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Boil until just tender but still slightly firm as they will cook further in the oven. Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
- Cook sausage: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and sliced smoked sausage. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and add it to the baking dish with the potatoes.
- Make roux: Wipe the skillet clean and add butter. Melt over medium heat, then add the flour. Cook and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a roux that will thicken the cheese sauce.
- Add dairy and seasoning: Gradually whisk in the half-and-half (or milk) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in garlic powder for flavor.
- Melt Velveeta: Reduce heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
- Incorporate cheddar: Add half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted into the sauce. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- To make this dish lighter, substitute half-and-half with 2% milk.
- Ensure potatoes are slightly undercooked when boiling to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
- Feel free to use your favorite smoked sausage variety for added flavor variations.
- Velveeta cheese helps create a smooth, creamy sauce, but you can use processed cheese alternatives if preferred.
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
