Cheesy Potatoes with Smoked Sausage Recipe
A comforting, hearty casserole combining tender potatoes and smoky sausage smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce made with Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe serves nine and offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare it for the casserole.
- Cook Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender but slightly undercooked, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Cook Sausage: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then the sliced smoked sausage. Cook until browned, then remove from skillet and place on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
- Make Roux: Wipe the skillet clean, add butter, and melt over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquid and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the half-and-half or milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir in garlic powder to infuse flavor.
- Melt Velveeta: Reduce heat to low and add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Remove the sauce from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Top: Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes and sausage in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
Notes
- Boiling the potatoes until just tender ensures they don’t become mushy after baking.
- Using half-and-half gives a richer sauce, but milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
- Velveeta cheese helps create a smooth, creamy sauce that melds well with the sharper cheddar.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after the cheese sauce is made to avoid over-salting.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers when cooking the sausage.
