Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes and Sausage
   Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer to get even slices if you have one. Next, slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds as well.
3. Layer the Casserole
   Start by arranging a layer of potato slices at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, add a layer of smoked sausage slices on top of the potatoes. Repeat the process, layering the potatoes and sausage until all the ingredients are used, making sure the top layer is potatoes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
   In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and sausage in the baking dish, making sure everything is well coated.
5. Top with Cheese
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously melty, golden cheese crust when baked.
6. Bake the Casserole
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Finish Baking
   After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This step helps the cheese get that irresistible, crispy texture on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for a Perfect Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole:

• Variety of Sausage: While smoked sausage is the star of this dish, you can experiment with different types of sausage based on your preferences. Kielbasa, andouille, or even a spicy chorizo can give the casserole a unique twist. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a more neutral smoked sausage.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables to the casserole to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas work well in this dish. You can sauté the veggies with the sausage before layering them in the casserole for extra flavor.
• Make It Creamier: For an even creamier casserole, you can mix some cream cheese into the sour cream mixture. This will add richness to the sauce and make the casserole even more indulgent.
• Customize the Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp Gruyère for a different flavor profile. You could also try a combination of cheeses for extra complexity.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or when you need to prepare dinner ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate, then bake as directed when you’re ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole:

Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for cozy dinners. The smoky sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes, and the cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch to this already decadent dish. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve at a gathering.

What makes this casserole especially great is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your tastes or what you have in the pantry. Whether you prefer a little extra spice, want to add more vegetables, or need to adjust the seasonings, this dish can be tailored to suit your needs.

Plus, it’s an all-in-one meal that includes protein, vegetables, and carbs—making it a great option for busy nights when you need something filling and satisfying in one dish. It’s a perfect family meal or a comforting dish for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or dinner parties.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a simple yet hearty meal, Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table!