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

Description

This Sausage and Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, seasoned hot pork sausage, and onion meld wonderfully together, topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness, this casserole will warm your heart and satisfy every craving.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Potatoes:

3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch slices
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (1/2 stick)

For the Sausage Mixture:

1 pound bulk hot pork sausage
1 yellow onion, chopped

For Topping:

2 cups freshly shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, Swiss, or a mixture)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

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.
Cook the potatoes:
Place the potatoes in a large saucepan set over medium-high heat, and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes or until the potatoes are just fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the potatoes.
Cook the sausage and onion:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the skillet and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and the sausage is fully cooked through. Transfer the sausage and onion mixture to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess grease, then dab the top with another paper towel to blot additional fat.
Combine ingredients:
Spread the sausage and onion mixture over the potatoes in the baking dish. Gently toss everything together to ensure an even distribution.
Add cheese and bake:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the potato and sausage mixture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 7-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Cheese Options: A mix of cheddar, Gruyere, and Swiss works wonderfully for flavor depth, but feel free to use any melty cheese you prefer.
Potato Tip: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they’re naturally creamy, but red potatoes or Russets can also be used.
Sausage Substitution: If you’d like a milder option, use regular pork sausage or even turkey sausage as a lighter alternative.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes of baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 340
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg