Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole

Few dishes deliver as much comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor as this Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole. It’s hearty, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy — everything you could want in a cozy family dinner. With tender hash browns, slices of smoky sausage, and layers of melted cheddar cheese, this easy casserole brings together simple ingredients to create something truly satisfying.

Created by Jennifer Osterholt, this recipe captures the warmth of a classic Midwestern family meal. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something filling but easy, or for potlucks and gatherings where you know everyone will come back for seconds. The combination of savory smoked sausage and creamy, cheesy potatoes is timeless — and once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.

Inspiration Behind the Dish

This casserole was inspired by those nostalgic, homey dishes that blend hearty meats and comforting potatoes — the kind of recipes that have been passed down through generations. Think of it as the love child of a classic hash brown casserole and a hearty smoked sausage bake. It’s easy to assemble, uses everyday pantry ingredients, and fills your home with the smell of bubbling cheese and savory sausage as it bakes.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated steps — just mix, bake, and enjoy. It’s the type of comfort food that invites everyone to gather around the table.

Best Occasions to Serve It

• Family dinners: It’s a filling, no-fuss meal that even picky eaters love.
• Potlucks and gatherings: Travels well, reheats beautifully, and feeds a crowd.
• Weekend brunches: Pair with eggs and fruit for a complete meal.
• Freezer meal prep: Perfect to make ahead and store for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
• Game day or tailgating: Serve it alongside other hearty dishes for a winning lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless comfort food: Just mix, bake, and enjoy — minimal prep time required.
• One-dish meal: Protein, carbs, and cheese all in one easy bake.
• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble and refrigerate or freeze for later.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults both love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Flexible ingredients: Great way to use leftover cheese, sausage, or potatoes.
• Budget-friendly: Simple pantry and fridge staples come together beautifully.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields 8 servings — perfect for a family dinner or a gathering. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 1 package shredded hash browns (26-ounce bag)
  • Use frozen hash browns for convenience. Make sure they’re separated — no clumps — for even baking.
• 1 cup sour cream
  • Adds creaminess and tang to balance the richness.
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
  • The base of the sauce, bringing savory depth and binding the ingredients together.
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • Two cups go into the mixture for creamy texture; one cup goes on top for that irresistible golden layer.
• 1 teaspoon salt (optional)
  • Adjust to taste depending on your sausage’s saltiness.
• ½ teaspoon pepper
  • Adds a gentle kick and balances the creamy flavors.
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
  • The star of the dish! Choose your favorite brand or style — beef, pork, or turkey sausage all work beautifully.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this casserole smooth and mess-free, have these essentials on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal for even baking and serving straight from the oven.
• Large mixing bowl – You’ll need plenty of space to mix all the ingredients evenly.
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon – Perfect for folding and spreading the mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy ensures balanced flavor.
• Sharp knife – For slicing sausage.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling the hot casserole dish.

Optional but helpful:

• Cheese grater – If shredding your own cheese.
• Foil – To cover during baking if you prefer a softer top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps closely for perfect, creamy results every time.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Hash Browns

Pour the 26-ounce bag of shredded hash browns into a large mixing bowl. If using frozen hash browns, make sure they’re thawed and separated — break apart any clumps using a butter knife.

3. Combine the Sauce Ingredients

Spread the 1 cup sour cream and 10.5 ounces of cream of mushroom soup over the hash browns. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then stir until the potatoes are evenly coated and the mixture looks creamy and uniform.

4. Add Cheese

Stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well so every bit of potato mixture has some cheesy goodness.

5. Spread and Bake (First Round)

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.

6. Add Smoked Sausage and More Cheese

After the first bake, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then layer the sliced smoked sausage on top.

Return to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the sausage is heated through.

7. Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. The brief cooling time helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tips for Success

• Thaw and separate your hash browns: Frozen clumps will make the bake uneven.
• Mix in a large bowl: This recipe makes a generous amount, so give yourself plenty of space to stir.
• Shred your own cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-packaged varieties.
• Let it rest: Give the casserole a few minutes to settle before serving — it’ll hold its shape better.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Loaded Style: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced green onions, or even a handful of chopped bell peppers.
• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder, creamier flavor.
• Cream of Chicken Substitute: For a slightly different taste, use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom.

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free condensed cream soup.
• Lower Fat: Substitute light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add roasted vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This casserole is the definition of comfort on a plate — creamy, cheesy, smoky, and satisfying. The mild, earthy cream of mushroom base complements the saltiness of the sausage, while the hash browns soak up all that cheesy sauce for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Texture Notes

• The top turns golden and bubbly.
• The inside remains creamy and rich.
• Each bite offers a contrast between soft potatoes and smoky sausage.

Perfect Side Dishes

Since this casserole is hearty, pair it with lighter sides:

• Green beans or steamed broccoli
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted carrots or asparagus
• Sliced fresh fruit for balance

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 455 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 102mg
• Sodium: 1331mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Calcium: 347mg
• Iron: 2mg

These values are approximate and can vary depending on the brands and exact products used.

Dietary Notes

• Contains dairy and gluten (if using regular cream of mushroom soup).
• High in protein and calcium thanks to sausage and cheese.
• Can be adapted for gluten-free or low-fat diets with simple swaps.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

This casserole is an ideal make-ahead dish because the flavors meld beautifully as it rests.

• Assemble Ahead: Mix the ingredients, spread in the pan, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.
• Freeze Before Baking: Assemble in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
• Leftovers: Store cooked leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use cubed hash browns instead of shredded?
Yes! The texture will be slightly chunkier but still delicious. You may need to bake a few minutes longer.

2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken, celery, or even a homemade condensed soup base if preferred.

3. Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, simply bake it in two 9×13 pans or one extra-large roasting pan.

4. Does it freeze well?
Absolutely. Freeze before baking for best results. Once baked, it can still be frozen, but the texture may soften slightly after reheating.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes per serving.

6. Can I add vegetables to it?
Yes, frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers make excellent additions for extra color and nutrients.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Task	Time
1	Preheat oven and prepare ingredients	5 min
2	Mix hash brown base	7 min
3	First bake	35 min
4	Add cheese and sausage	5 min
5	Final bake	15–20 min
Total Time	—	1 hour 2 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole hot and bubbling right from the oven. It’s satisfying enough to be a complete meal, but you can add sides for variety.

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for color and freshness.
• Presentation: Serve in squares or spoon portions onto plates. The golden cheese layer makes it visually irresistible.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a simple salad, coleslaw, or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

Recipe Variations

1. Breakfast Sausage Casserole: Swap smoked sausage for breakfast sausage, and add scrambled eggs for a brunch-ready dish.
2. Cheesy Ranch Version: Mix a packet of ranch seasoning into the base for a zesty twist.
3. Spicy Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning and use andouille sausage for extra kick.
4. Bacon Lover’s Twist: Mix in cooked bacon pieces or top with crispy bacon crumbles before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight

Smoked Sausage

Smoked sausage is the heart of this recipe. It brings depth, saltiness, and that satisfying “grilled” flavor without any extra steps. When shopping:

• Look for fully cooked varieties for convenience.
• Choose beef, pork, or turkey depending on your flavor preference.
• Slice evenly for consistent heating and presentation.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese gives this casserole its signature creaminess and golden crust. Sharp cheddar offers bold flavor, while mild cheddar melts smoothly. For the best results:

• Shred your own cheese for creamier melt.
• Mix with other cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack for variation.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use quality sausage: A well-smoked sausage adds more depth and flavor.
• Layer wisely: Adding the final cheese and sausage layer halfway through baking ensures even heating and perfect texture.
• Prevent sticking: Always grease your baking dish — the cheesy base can cling if not prepared.
• Customize seasoning: Since sausages vary in saltiness, taste your mixture before baking.
• Rest before slicing: Let it cool slightly for neater servings.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat single servings in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until hot.

Freezing

• Before Baking: Assemble, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze up to 2 months.
• After Baking: Cool completely, wrap well, and freeze up to 1 month.
• Thawing: Defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat until warm and bubbly.

Avoid repeated freezing and thawing to maintain texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	455 kcal
Protein	21g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	36g
Saturated Fat	18g
Sodium	1331mg
Fiber	1g
Sugar	1g
Calcium	347mg
Iron	2mg

Dietary Notes:
Contains gluten and dairy. Can be made gluten-free with alternative soup and dairy-free cheese options.

Expanded Conclusion

The Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole is a dish that celebrates everything we love about classic home cooking — it’s hearty, simple, and layered with comforting flavors that never go out of style. From the first creamy bite to the smoky finish, it’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family.

This recipe perfectly balances indulgence and convenience. With just a few staple ingredients and one baking dish, you can create a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, feeding a hungry household, or simply craving something cozy, this casserole delivers every time.

So grab that bag of hash browns, slice up your favorite smoked sausage, and let the oven do the work. When you pull out that bubbling, golden-brown dish, you’ll know exactly why this recipe has become a family favorite across countless kitchens.

Print