Can I use different potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds offer the best creamy texture, russet potatoes work well too. Red potatoes can be used but may hold their shape more, giving a different texture to the finished dish. Whatever type you use, make sure to slice them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

How do I know when the potatoes are "just fork-tender"?

Insert a fork into a potato slice – it should slide in with slight resistance but not be completely soft. You should be able to lift the slice with the fork without it falling apart. This usually takes 8-10 minutes of simmering, but check frequently as over-boiled potatoes will become mushy in the casserole.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or even sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat. You might want to add extra seasonings like smoked paprika or fennel seeds to replicate the sausage flavor profile.

My family doesn't like spicy food. What sausage should I use instead?

No problem! Simply use mild Italian sausage, regular breakfast sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. The dish will still be flavorful without the heat. You can add herbs like sage or thyme to enhance the flavor if using a plainer sausage.

Sausage and Potatoes Casserole Recipe

Name: Sausage and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

This hearty Sausage and Potatoes Casserole is a game-changer for your weeknight dinner rotation. Tender Yukon Gold potatoes, savory sausage, and gooey melted cheese come together in a comforting dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The simplicity of ingredients lets each component shine while creating a satisfying meal that your whole family will request again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Straightforward: Just a handful of everyday ingredients transform into a delicious, filling meal with minimal effort.
Customizable: The basic recipe is fantastic as is, but you can easily adapt it to what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
Perfect Comfort Food: There’s something magical about the combination of potatoes, sausage, and cheese that creates the ultimate comfort meal.
Quick Prep: Despite tasting like it took hours, this casserole comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These provide a buttery, creamy texture that’s perfect for casseroles. Their thin skin means you can even skip peeling if you’re in a hurry.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the potatoes develop a wonderful flavor while preventing them from drying out.
Hot Pork Sausage: The star of the dish, bringing protein and bold flavor. The slight spiciness balances beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks with the sausage. Don’t skip this—it makes a huge difference!
Cheese: Whether you choose cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or a mix, the melty cheese layer creates that irresistible golden top that makes everyone want to dig in.
Fresh Parsley: Not just a pretty garnish—it adds a fresh, bright note that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Make It Milder

Not a fan of heat? Swap the hot sausage for mild Italian sausage or even breakfast sausage for a more family-friendly version.

Add Some Greens

Toss in a handful of spinach or kale when mixing the sausage and potatoes for an extra nutritional boost.

Breakfast Version

Add a layer of scrambled eggs before the cheese for a hearty breakfast casserole that’s perfect for weekend brunches.

Mediterranean Twist

Use Italian sausage and add roasted red peppers, olives, and swap the cheddar for mozzarella and feta.

How to Make Sausage and Potatoes Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F and give your baking dish a quick spray with cooking spray. Place your sliced potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook until the potatoes are just fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes. Don’t overcook them! Drain and transfer to your prepared baking dish, then pour the melted butter over them.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture

While the potatoes are cooking, brown your sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the sausage is fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease by transferring the mixture to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Spread the sausage and onion mixture over the buttered potatoes in the baking dish. Gently toss everything together to ensure even distribution. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top and bake uncovered for 7-10 minutes, just until the cheese is beautifully melted and starting to bubble.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve while hot and bubbly. The contrast between the fresh green parsley and the golden cheese crust makes this dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: They should be just fork-tender when you drain them, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
Layer For Success: If you prefer more distinct layers rather than tossing everything together, try layering half the potatoes, then sausage mixture, then remaining potatoes, and finally cheese.
Cheese Blend Magic: A mix of cheeses creates more complex flavor—try combining sharp cheddar with creamy Gruyere for the perfect melt.
Prep Ahead: You can boil the potatoes and cook the sausage mixture up to a day ahead, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a truly comforting meal, serve alongside crusty bread for sopping up any buttery goodness left on the plate.

Make It a Feast

For special occasions or Sunday dinner, serve with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli, and perhaps a light fruit-based dessert to finish the meal.

Sauce It Up

Offer additional toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or even a quick homemade gravy for family members to customize their portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as everything melds together!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat portions in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2 minutes, though the texture of the potatoes may change slightly.

FAQs

Can I use different potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds offer the best creamy texture, russet potatoes work well too. Red potatoes can be used but may hold their shape more, giving a different texture to the finished dish. Whatever type you use, make sure to slice them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
How do I know when the potatoes are “just fork-tender”?

Insert a fork into a potato slice – it should slide in with slight resistance but not be completely soft. You should be able to lift the slice with the fork without it falling apart. This usually takes 8-10 minutes of simmering, but check frequently as over-boiled potatoes will become mushy in the casserole.
Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or even sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat. You might want to add extra seasonings like smoked paprika or fennel seeds to replicate the sausage flavor profile.
My family doesn’t like spicy food. What sausage should I use instead?

No problem! Simply use mild Italian sausage, regular breakfast sausage, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. The dish will still be flavorful without the heat. You can add herbs like sage or thyme to enhance the flavor if using a plainer sausage.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Potatoes Casserole is comfort food at its finest – simple, satisfying, and incredibly tasty. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition, perfect for busy weeknights but special enough for when company comes over. The beauty lies in its simplicity, letting quality ingredients shine without fussy techniques. I hope you’ll give this casserole a try when you need a hearty, delicious meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles!