This Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish packed with layers of tender potatoes, sautéed vegetables, savory sausages, and a velvety cheese sauce. With a crispy golden top and a creamy interior, this casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy!
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Baking Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- Olive oil, for cooking and greasing
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Provencal herbs, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- 5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
For the Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- Olive oil, for sautéing
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 60g (2.11 oz) butter
- 50g (1.76 oz) flour
- 400ml (13.52 fl oz) milk
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 sausages, sliced
- 100g (3.52 oz) mozzarella cheese, grated
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Toss thinly sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, Provencal herbs, and sweet paprika.
- Spread the potatoes evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until slightly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper.
- Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic, grated carrot, and chopped red bell pepper.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until soft.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes until thickened, then season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Remove the partially baked potatoes from the oven.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Layer the sautéed vegetables and sliced sausages on top.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the casserole and sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
- With Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- As a Hearty Breakfast: Serve with fried eggs or avocado slices for a filling start to the day.
- With a Spicy Twist: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- As a Main or Side: Enjoy as a main dish or serve alongside grilled meat or fish.
Cooking Tips
- Thinly Slice the Potatoes: This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
- Use Quality Sausages: Opt for smoked sausage or chorizo for extra flavor.
- For a Crispy Top: Broil for the last 3-5 minutes of baking for a golden crust.
- Make It Creamier: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream into the cheese sauce for an ultra-rich texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausages and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Protein: Eggs, cheese, and sausages provide essential protein.
- High in Fiber: Potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers offer fiber for digestion.
- Calcium Boost: Mozzarella and milk provide calcium for strong bones.
- Packed with Vitamins: Vegetables add vitamin C, A, and potassium.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.
- Keto/Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or zucchini.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Portion)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Hearty: Perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
✔ Creamy & Cheesy: Packed with cheese sauce and gooey mozzarella.
✔ Customizable: Swap out ingredients for your dietary needs.
✔ Great for Any Meal: Works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
✔ Perfect Comfort Food: A satisfying dish that’s warm and filling.
Recipe Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, brunch, or meal prep, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Give it a try today and enjoy a cheesy, comforting bite in every serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use a different cheese?
- Yes! Try cheddar, gouda, or Swiss cheese for different flavors.
-
Can I add mushrooms?
- Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms add great texture and flavor.
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How do I prevent a watery casserole?
- Make sure to drain excess moisture from vegetables before layering.
-
Can I use another type of meat?
- Yes! Chicken, bacon, or chorizo work well.
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Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
Try this Cheesy Potato and Sausage Casserole today for a delicious, creamy, and comforting meal! 🥔🧀🔥