Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

The purpose of this recipe is to bring together smoky kielbasa sausage, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese in a hearty Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole that tastes like pure comfort in every forkful. It is the kind of dish that gathers family around the table and fills the house with mouth-watering aromas. I love how every bite brings a mix of creamy, savory, and crispy textures you just cannot beat.

This recipe has become a favorite for weeknight family dinners and potlucks. The first time I made it I was surprised how everyone kept reaching for seconds and my husband now requests it for every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Kielbasa sausage: brings a smoky bold flavor that infuses the whole casserole look for a firm sausage with natural casings for the best texture
• Russet potatoes: create a creamy base that soaks up all the cheesy sauce pick medium potatoes free of green spots or blemishes
• Onion: adds a sweet and savory depth choose fresh onions that feel heavy and have shiny skins
• Garlic powder: offers extra savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients
• Onion powder: backs up the fresh onion for a deep onion richness
• Paprika: gives a soft pop of color and a gentle earthy spice use quality sweet or smoked paprika
• Black pepper: brightens everything up with gentle heat
• Shredded cheddar cheese: gives that rich gooey creamy finish use freshly grated cheese for better melting
• Sour cream: adds tangy creaminess and keeps the potatoes soft
• Milk: loosens the sauce making it velvety and smooth whole milk works best but any milk will do in a pinch
• Butter: brings a touch of richness and glossiness look for real butter for best flavor
• Olive oil: is perfect for sautéing and adds a hint of fruitiness use a mild extra virgin kind
• Parsley: freshens up the look and flavor of the finished dish buy parsley with firm crisp leaves
• Salt: pulls all the flavors together use kosher salt for more even seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray This gets the dish ready so nothing sticks and you get a clean golden finish

Prepare and Parboil the Potatoes:

Peel and cut the russet potatoes into small cubes about half an inch in size Place them in a pot and fully cover with water Bring to a boil over medium high heat and cook for about ten to twelve minutes until just fork tender but not falling apart Drain the potatoes well and let them cool off slightly This helps them keep their shape in the casserole

Brown the Kielbasa:

Slice the kielbasa into rounds about a quarter inch thick Heat a large skillet over medium heat add the olive oil and once warm add sausage Cook five to seven minutes stirring now and then until edges are lightly crisp and golden Remove to a plate and set aside The browning brings out the best flavor in the sausage

Sauté the Onions and Add Seasonings:

In the same skillet add chopped onion Sauté for three to four minutes until softened and slightly translucent Stir in the garlic powder onion powder paprika black pepper and salt Cook for another minute or two until the spices are fragrant This step layers in deep savory flavor

Mix the Casserole Base:

In a big mixing bowl combine the parboiled potatoes sautéed onions and reserved kielbasa Pour in the melted butter sour cream milk and half of the cheddar cheese Mix gently until everything is evenly coated creamy and the flavor is spread throughout

Layer and Top:

Scoop the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly Top with the rest of the cheddar cheese for a thick melty crust This is what creates that irresistible cheesy top

Bake:

Place in the oven and bake uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes until the top is bubbly golden and the cheese is melted through This short bake finishes cooking and brings all the flavors together

Garnish and Serve:

Let the casserole rest about five minutes Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness and a touch of color Then scoop and serve while still hot and cheesy

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Cheddar cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts so beautifully and gives every bite that extra gooeyness It reminds me of Sunday suppers when my kids would race in the door asking if dinner was ready The cheesier the better was always their motto and I completely agree

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole to room temperature before storing so moisture does not gather and make it soggy Cover with plastic wrap or use an airtight container Stays fresh in the fridge up to three days To freeze let it cool completely wrap tightly and it will last up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until bubbly

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap kielbasa for any smoked sausage even turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter twist Yukon Gold potatoes are soft and buttery if you want a creamier filling Try mozzarella or a cheese blend instead of cheddar for a milder flavor For a dairy free version use plant based butter and cheese and unsweetened plant milk

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Serving Suggestions

A tart green salad or steamed green beans add a crisp side and balance the rich casserole Sprinkle with extra fresh herbs or thinly sliced green onions for a fresh kick Pairs well with apple sauce or roasted apples on the side for a little sweet counterpoint

Cultural and Historical Context

Kielbasa sausage is a traditional Polish ingredient popular in hearty casseroles all over Eastern and Central Europe Combining it with potatoes and cheese has become a staple comfort food in many American homes The casserole is a meal that brings everyone together and is often a centerpiece during cooler months or big family gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and absorb flavors well, resulting in a creamy texture.

→ Can I use a different sausage?

Yes, smoked or turkey sausage can replace kielbasa for a lighter or different flavor profile.

→ How do I get a crispy top?

Bake uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes and sprinkle extra cheese to achieve a golden, bubbly crust.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and assemble the dish, then refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for the freshest taste.

→ What are some good side dishes?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli balance the richness of the casserole.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cool to room temperature, cover well, and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven to maintain its creamy consistency.