Introduction
This delightful smoked kielbasa and cheesy potato casserole brings together the heartiness of russet potatoes and the smokiness of kielbasa in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress. With an array of flavors and a creamy texture, it’s a meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
¼ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1½ cups 2% milk
½ cup heavy cream (33%)
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
1 can (284 ml) cheddar cheese soup
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
This dish is not only simple to prepare but also provides a rich and comforting flavor profile that makes it a family favorite. Enjoy the creamy texture combined with the smoky taste of kielbasa in every bite! Serve it hot and watch as everyone comes back for seconds.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
In a medium-sized pot, boil the cubed potatoes in water for about 7 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Kielbasa
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the kielbasa pieces and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer the browned sausage to the baking dish with the potatoes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook until the mixture is smooth and the raw flour taste is gone.
Step 5: Add Ingredients to the Sauce
Add minced garlic, 2% milk, heavy cream, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, cracked black pepper, and cheddar cheese soup to the skillet. Stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens. Mix in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Remove the sauce from heat and pour it over the potatoes and kielbasa in the baking dish. Stir gently to ensure even coating.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the dish is heated through and the top is slightly golden.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Time Variation
Ensure to check the potatoes for doneness, as cooking times may vary based on the size of the cubes.
Cheese Options
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors, but sharper varieties work best for depth.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Boiling Potatoes
Boil cubed russet potatoes until they are tender but not mushy. This technique ensures that the potatoes have a pleasant texture in the final dish.
Sautéing Kielbasa
Sauté the smoked kielbasa in olive oil until lightly browned. This enhances the flavor and adds a nice smoky depth to the dish.
Making a Roux
Melt butter and stir in flour to create a roux, cooking until smooth. This thickens the sauce and gives it a rich consistency.
Thickening Sauce
Combine minced garlic, milk, cream, spices, and cheddar cheese soup in the roux. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, ensuring that it’s smooth and well-blended.
Melting Cheese
Mix shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce off the heat, allowing it to melt smoothly. This gives the dish a rich, cheesy flavor.
Baking
Bake the combined mixture in the oven until heated through and the top is slightly golden. This step helps meld the flavors and gives a lovely finish.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausages?
Yes, you can substitute other types of sausages for kielbasa, such as Italian sausage or smoked turkey sausage, to suit your preference.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk, or use half-and-half for a lighter option, although the richness will be reduced.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, consider including crushed red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can use plant-based sausage and substitute the cheddar cheese soup with a vegetarian version for a meat-free option.
Conclusion
This comforting dish of smoked kielbasa and cheesy potatoes is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. The richness of the cheese sauce paired with the hearty sausage and tender potatoes results in a satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Potato Casserole with Broccoli
Add steamed broccoli florets to the potato and kielbasa mixture for a tasty way to incorporate vegetables into this dish.
Spicy Kielbasa and Peppers
Include sliced bell peppers and jalapeños when sautéing the kielbasa for a spicy twist that complements the flavors of the cheese sauce.
Loaded Baked Potato Skillet
Top the baked dish with crispy bacon bits, green onions, and additional cheese for a loaded baked potato experience.
Vegetable Medley
Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, corn, or peas into the casserole for added color and nutrition.
Herbed Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Enhance the cheese sauce with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
Sweet Potato Variation
Substitute some or all of the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and a boost of nutrients.
