Introduction
This delicious potato and sausage casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With layers of Yukon Gold potatoes, savory hot pork sausage, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that will please both family and friends. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ¼-inch slices
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)
1 pound bulk hot pork sausage
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cups freshly shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or a mixture)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This simple yet satisfying potato and sausage casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the comforting hug of this home-cooked dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In a large saucepan, combine the sliced Yukon Gold potatoes with cold water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender but not fully cooked. After draining the potatoes, transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the drained potato slices in the baking dish.
Step 4: Cook the Sausage and Onions
While the potatoes are cooking, place the bulk hot pork sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage as it cooks. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet and continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the sausage is fully cooked. Once done, transfer the sausage and onion mixture to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, using another paper towel to gently blot the top.
Step 5: Combine Sausage and Potatoes
Evenly distribute the cooked sausage and onion mixture over the potato slices. Gently toss the ingredients together in the baking dish to combine.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheese of your choice over the sausage and potatoes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation.
Notes
Note 1: Potato Variety
Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with different varieties based on personal preference.
Note 2: Cheese Options
Using a mixture of cheeses adds depth of flavor. Cheddar, Gruyere, and Swiss are excellent choices; use your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Note 3: Spice Level
The hot pork sausage provides a spicy kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using a mild sausage or adjusting the amount of sausage to your taste.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Boiling
To achieve the perfect fork-tender consistency for the Yukon Gold potatoes, boil them in cold water. This method ensures even cooking as the potatoes heat up gradually.
Sautéing
Sauté the bulk hot pork sausage and chopped onion together until the onion is translucent and the sausage is fully cooked. This technique enhances flavor through the browning process.
Baking
Bake the assembled dish to melt the cheese and allow the flavors to meld together. Baking the dish uncovered helps achieve a bubbly and lightly golden cheese topping.
Garnishing
Finish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Garnishing not only enhances visual appeal but also adds an aromatic note.
FAQ
What kind of potatoes can I use for this recipe?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and flavor. However, you can also use other types of potatoes such as Russets if Yukon Golds are not available.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use various cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or a combination of these based on your preference and what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative and ensure that the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step in advance. Cover it and refrigerate it for a day before baking when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To increase the spiciness, you can choose a hotter variety of sausage or add extra spices such as red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sausage and onion mixture.
Conclusion
This delicious baked potato and sausage dish combines tender Yukon Gold potatoes with savory hot pork sausage and melted cheese, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. The addition of fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness to the rich flavors. Serve this hearty dish and watch it become a favorite among your loved ones.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Version
Substitute the pork sausage with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
Loaded Potato Casserole
Add crumbled cooked bacon, green onions, and sour cream to the mixture before baking for a loaded potato twist.
Spicy Southwest Bake
Incorporate diced jalapeños, black beans, and corn along with pepper jack cheese for a spicy southwestern flair.
Herbed Chicken and Potato Bake
Replace the sausage with cooked shredded chicken and add dried Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
Breakfast Bake
Layer the ingredients with scrambled eggs and some diced tomatoes for a delicious breakfast casserole that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
