Smoky, creamy, and bubbling with gooey cheese, Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole is one of those dishes you’ll crave anytime you want comfort food in a hurry. With just a handful of pantry staples and juicy smoked sausage, this casserole transforms into a hearty meal that the whole family can gather around. It’s the type of recipe you’ll keep coming back to on chilly nights, potlucks, or whenever you just want something extra special without fuss. Every bite delivers a riot of flavor, the crispy edges of potato, cheesy melt, and robust sausage making it truly unforgettable.

Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a few fuss-free ingredients come together to make this Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole so irresistible! Each piece plays a vital role, bringing flavor, texture, or that undeniable cheesiness to the table. Let’s break down the stars that make this dish shine.

Shredded hash browns (26 ounce bag): Ready to use and a huge time-saver, they create the ideal base for a creamy, hearty casserole.
Sour cream (1 cup): Adds essential tang and a velvety texture that makes the casserole irresistibly rich.
Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces): This secret hero binds everything together and introduces a subtle earthiness.
Shredded cheddar cheese (3 cups, divided): For pure gooey delight—use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor!
Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to give warmth and depth without overwhelming any other flavors.
Salt (1 teaspoon, optional): The right touch of seasoning if your tastebuds demand a little extra.
Smoked sausage (1 pound, sliced): The main protein and flavor booster, it delivers smoky, robust bites in every forkful.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Hash Browns

Start this feel-good meal by pouring your shredded hash browns straight into a large mixing bowl. If they’re frozen, there’s no need to stress—just let them briefly thaw on the counter while you gather the rest of your ingredients. This helps ensure they mix in smoothly, catching all that creamy goodness.

Step 2: Stir in the Creamy Base

Dollop in the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup right over those hash browns. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then mix well. This step is the foundation for that signature Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole texture—every potato strand gets swathed in luscious creaminess, ready to bubble up in the oven.

Step 3: Get Cheesy

Next, toss in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir everything together. The cheese will melt beautifully into the mixture as it bakes, marrying all the flavors while ensuring every bite is savory and rich. You’ll want to reserve that last cup of cheese for the big finish!

Step 4: Bake the Base

Spread your creamy, cheesy potato mixture evenly in the bottom of a lightly greased 9 x 13 baking dish. Pop it in a 350ºF oven for 35 minutes. Baking this base first allows the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld before the final cheesy, sausage-packed layer.

Step 5: Top with Sausage and More Cheese

After that first bake, scatter your remaining cup of cheddar cheese and all the sliced smoked sausage across the top. Return the dish to the oven for 15 to 20 more minutes. The cheese melts into a golden, gooey crown while the sausage gets irresistibly toasty on top—it’s the moment that takes this casserole over the top!

How to Serve Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Nothing beats that first spoonful straight out of the oven, but you can elevate your Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chives, chopped parsley, or even thinly sliced green onions. These garnishes add a pop of color and a hint of freshness, perfectly complementing the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a star on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some garlicky steamed broccoli makes the meal feel even more balanced. A side of apple slaw or pickles brings a bright, tangy contrast that keeps each mouthful lively and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks or family gatherings, try scooping the casserole into small ramekins or muffin tins before the final bake, making portable, individual servings. If you love a crunchy finish, top your Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole with crunchy fried onions or a handful of crushed potato chips in the last five minutes of baking for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and store it in the fridge. Your Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole will stay fresh for up to three days. It’s ideal for busy weekdays—just reheat and dig in!

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer hero! Assemble everything in an oven-safe dish right up to the point before baking, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if needed.

Reheating

To keep your casserole creamy and prevent it from drying out, reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350ºF oven until steamy. If the top looks a bit dry, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese or a splash of milk over it before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes—just peel, grate, and squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel. The result will be a little extra rustic in texture but just as comforting in flavor!

What type of smoked sausage works best?

Any smoked sausage you love will work! Kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage are all fantastic in Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole. Feel free to experiment with spicy or mild varieties for a twist.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even broccoli florets can be mixed in for added color and nutrition. Make sure veggies are chopped small so they cook through during baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

While most smoked sausages and cheddar cheeses are naturally gluten-free, always check your cream of mushroom soup and hash browns for any gluten-containing ingredients or additives to be sure.

Can I make Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until baking. Just bring it to room temperature before popping it in the oven so everything cooks through evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an easy, hearty dinner that’s guaranteed to wow your family, you simply have to try Smoked Sausage and Cheesy Potato Casserole. Each mouthful is pure comfort, and it’s the kind of recipe you’ll treasure in your weekly rotation. Let its smoky, cheesy richness bring smiles to your table—you’ll be glad you did!