A rich and creamy casserole packed with smoked kielbasa, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rich and creamy kielbasa sausage cheesy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with smoky kielbasa, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a warm and satisfying meal. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole will become a family favorite!

Ingredients

1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
4 cups potatoes, diced (or frozen hash browns)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté Kielbasa: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced kielbasa until lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, onion, garlic, 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the potato mixture into the baking dish. Add the browned kielbasa on top, then layer the remaining potato mixture.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. If using, mix melted butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the casserole for a crispy topping.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
Meat Swap: Substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage, ham, or cooked bacon.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! Just dice them into small cubes and partially cook them before adding to the casserole.

What other soups can I use instead of cream of mushroom?

You can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade roux-based sauce.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it in advance, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chorizo would work well.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. Also, ensure the soup is gluten-free.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then add cheese before serving.

What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?

Broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes after baking to achieve a golden, crispy crust.

Can I add eggs to this dish?

Yes! Beat 2 eggs and mix them into the casserole for a firmer, more structured dish.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk instead of regular milk, and a dairy-free sour cream substitute.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make great accompaniments.

Conclusion

Kielbasa sausage cheesy potato casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a gathering, this hearty dish is guaranteed to be a hit!

Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A rich, creamy casserole with savory smoked kielbasa, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese—the ultimate comfort food for any meal!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
4 cups potatoes, diced (or frozen hash browns)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sauté Kielbasa: In a skillet over medium heat, cook kielbasa until lightly browned. Set aside.
Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, mix potatoes, onion, garlic, 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, sour cream, soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer half of the potato mixture in the baking dish, then add kielbasa. Top with remaining potatoes.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese. If using, mix butter with breadcrumbs and sprinkle for a crispy topping.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Rest for 5 minutes, sprinkle with parsley, and enjoy!

Notes

Swap cheddar for a cheese blend for extra flavor.
For a smoky kick, add a dash of smoked paprika.
Leftovers store well and can be reheated easily.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American