Ingredients & Quantity:**
– 1 lb sausage (breakfast sausage or any preferred variety, casing removed)
– 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and diced, or sliced thinly)
– 1 medium onion (chopped)
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works best)
– 1 cup heavy cream or milk
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
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Optional Additions:
– 1 cup bell peppers (diced, for extra vegetables)
– 1 cup spinach or kale (for added greens)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (for an herbal note)
– Crumbled bacon (for extra flavor and crunch)
– Sautéed mushrooms (for a rich, earthy flavor)
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Tips for Success:
- Pre-cook the sausage: Brown the sausage fully in a skillet before adding it to the casserole. This helps drain excess fat and ensures that the sausage is cooked through.
- Soften potatoes: If you’re slicing the potatoes, you can par-cook them in the microwave for 5 minutes before adding them to the casserole to reduce cooking time in the oven.
- Layer evenly: For the best texture and flavor, layer the potatoes, sausage, and cheese evenly. This ensures every bite gets a bit of everything.
- Cover with foil: If you find the casserole browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the first part of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked the next day, which makes it an excellent option for a stress-free breakfast or dinner.
- Season generously: Potatoes need seasoning, so don’t be afraid to add enough salt, pepper, and spices to make the dish flavorful.
Instructions:*
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Prepare potatoes: If using whole potatoes, peel and dice them into 1/2-inch cubes. You can also slice them thinly to reduce cooking time. (Optional: microwave the diced potatoes for 5 minutes to soften them slightly before baking.)
- Sauté the onions: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed onions, and potatoes. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and any optional seasonings you like. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream (or milk) until everything is well coated.
- Assemble casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the sausage and potato mixture evenly in the dish. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped green onions for added color and flavor.
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Description:
Sausage and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of savory sausage, creamy sauce, and tender potatoes. The sausage imparts a rich, meaty flavor, while the potatoes provide heartiness and texture. The creamy, cheesy sauce binds it all together, creating a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. This casserole is easily customizable to fit your tastes, whether you prefer extra vegetables or a stronger herbed flavor. It’s a filling, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.