Craving a hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious meal? Look no further than this Sausage and Potato Casserole! This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. This easy recipe is also a great way to use up leftover potatoes or sausages. Get ready to experience the magic of this classic comfort food, elevated to new heights of deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Start by browning the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add the butter to the skillet and melt it. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), layer half of the sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the potatoes. Next, pour half of the chicken broth and heavy cream over the sausage. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, broth, and cream. Finally, top with the Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is lightly browned. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Sausage and Potato Casserole:
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but you can use other varieties like Russet potatoes. Just be sure to peel and slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Sausage Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Andouille sausage, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage would add a unique flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites would all be delicious.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This sausage and potato casserole is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. It's a versatile dish, easily customizable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. Enjoy!