Description

This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Featuring tender russet potatoes, savory browned kielbasa, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce infused with onion and garlic powders, this casserole bakes to golden perfection with a rich and bubbly top. Optional add-ins like red bell pepper and green onions add a fresh touch to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900g), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
1 pound (450g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds or half-moons
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200g)
4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (240ml) whole milk or 2%
3 tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter
3 tablespoons (24g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper)

Optional Add-ins

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare Potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
Boil Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes until tender but still firm. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and set them aside.
Cook Kielbasa: While the potatoes are cooking, slice the kielbasa sausage into rounds or half-moons. Cook the slices in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until they are lightly browned and fragrant, adding flavor to the dish.
Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and golden, creating a roux base.
Thicken Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add shredded cheddar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked potatoes, browned kielbasa, and cheese sauce until everything is well coated. If desired, fold in the diced red bell pepper for extra flavor and color.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly for uniform baking.
Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil after 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

Use Russet potatoes for best texture in casseroles; they hold their shape well.
To reduce salt, adjust the added salt according to the saltiness of the kielbasa.
For a spicier kick, add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
Make sure not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy before baking.
Tent with foil if the casserole browns too quickly to prevent burning while baking through.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: kielbasa casserole, cheesy potato casserole, sausage potato bake, comfort food casserole, baked potato dish