If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that brings together hearty flavors and cheesy goodness, the Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a rich harmony of savory kielbasa sausage, tender shredded potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers a mouthwatering experience that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe truly shine. Each element plays a crucial role—from the smoky kielbasa adding that irresistible savory punch to the creamy sour cream and cheddar cheese that provide luscious texture and flavor. The combination is simple but unstoppable.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the kielbasa and onions, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 ounces): Adds smoky, meaty flavor and satisfying texture when browned.
- Yellow onion (1 medium): Sautéed until translucent to bring sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves (2): Minced for that perfect aromatic boost to the flavors.
- Frozen shredded hash browns (30 ounces): Thawed to form the hearty potato base of the casserole.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for gooey, flavorful richness.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings creaminess and a slight tang to balance.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces): Acts as a creamy binder to keep everything moist.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the texture, making the casserole smooth and easy to slice.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle heat and spicy undertones.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Adds color and subtle smoky warmth.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Amplifies the garlic flavor without overpowering.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup, optional): For a bright, fresh garnish that livens up the casserole’s appearance.
How to Make Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa sausage and let it brown for about 4 to 5 minutes until those edges develop a beautiful caramelized crust. This step locks in the smoky, savory flavor that’s the backbone of the entire casserole. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the diced yellow onion. Sauté until translucent and soft, which usually takes about 4 minutes. This will sweeten the onions and balance the zestiness of the kielbasa. Add the minced garlic next and cook for just a minute more to release those aromatic oils that elevate every bite of the casserole.
Step 3: Combine the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well so all the flavors meld into a creamy, comforting mixture. Then gently fold in the cooked kielbasa and sautéed onions, evenly distributing those tasty bits throughout.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top turns bubbly and golden brown, signaling that perfect cheesy crust we all love.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if you like a pop of green freshness and a hint of herbal brightness to contrast the rich casserole. Let it cool slightly before serving so each slice holds its shape and melts perfectly in your mouth.
How to Serve Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a simple and stunning way to finish this casserole. You might also consider a dollop of sour cream or a light shower of extra cheddar cheese for those cheese lovers who want to double down. The garnishes not only add visual appeal but also layers of texture and flavor that make each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty, so keep sides light and fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus pairs beautifully. The freshness in these sides balances the rich, creamy flavors, making the meal feel complete and inviting without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This personal touch feels extra special and keeps the cheesy potato goodness warm longer. You can also layer the casserole in a deep pie dish and serve it family-style, encouraging everyone to help themselves to generous, satisfying portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making the next day’s serving taste even better. Just be sure to cover it well to keep the casserole moist and prevent any fridge odors from seeping in.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully and makes for an excellent meal prep option. After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it or freeze the whole dish tightly wrapped in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in a covered baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave single servings, but reheating in the oven helps restore that crispy golden top and keeps the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Fresh potatoes work well too, but they’ll need to be shredded and thoroughly dried before mixing to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole watery.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply swap the kielbasa for plant-based sausage or add extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms to maintain that savory depth and satisfying texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Just be sure to choose gluten-free kielbasa and cream of chicken soup to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t have cheddar?
Sharp Monterey Jack or a blend of mozzarella and gouda can be delicious alternatives, offering great meltability and flavor.
How do I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or peas are easy to mix in during step 3. Just sauté any veggies that require softening beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something endlessly satisfying about the Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe that feels like coming home after a long day. It’s simple to pull together, utterly comforting, and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. If you’re looking for a cozy meal packed with flavor and heart, this casserole is your new go-to. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting American main course dish combining savory kielbasa, tender hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for an easy dinner, it features a creamy mix of sour cream and cream of chicken soup with a hint of paprika and garlic for rich flavor, topped with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Casserole Base
- 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Kielbasa: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the sliced kielbasa for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the diced yellow onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy base.
- Combine Kielbasa and Onion Mixture: Fold the cooked kielbasa and sautéed onions and garlic into the hash brown mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes uncovered until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped bell peppers for extra color and texture.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked the next day for convenience.
- Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free kielbasa to make this recipe gluten-free.
