Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole. Featuring tender russet potatoes, savory smoked kielbasa, and a rich, cheesy sauce made with sharp cheddar and creamy milk, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in!
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Growing up, dinner in our bustling household was a sacred family affair, and the Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole was more than just a meal—it was a warm, delicious hug at the end of a long day. My grandmother, a woman of hearty Eastern European descent, concocted this recipe one chilly winter evening, aiming to merge her love for kielbasa—a staple from her homeland—with the universal appeal of cheesy potatoes. Her kitchen was filled with the laughter of relatives and the savory aroma of sausages sizzling away. Over the years, this casserole became our family’s comfort classic, brought out at every significant gathering, teaching us that some recipes are not just meant to satiate hunger but to nourish the soul.
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 3 cups, peeled and cubed |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Smoked kielbasa sausage | 1 pound, sliced into bite-size pieces |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup |
| Minced garlic | 2 teaspoons |
| 2% milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup (33%) |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cracked black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cheddar cheese soup | 1 can (284 ml) |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prepare the baking dish: Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Boil the potatoes: Cook the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain.
- Brown the kielbasa: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and brown the kielbasa slices until they have a crisp exterior and enhanced flavor.
- Make the roux: In a separate pot, melt the butter, add the flour, and cook until the raw flour taste is gone. This forms the base of your sauce.
- Prepare the sauce: Incorporate the milk, heavy cream, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the roux, and cook until the sauce thickens. Add the cheddar cheese soup and mix well.
- Combine ingredients: Mix the boiled potatoes, browned kielbasa, and the cheesy sauce thoroughly to ensure every piece is deliciously coated.
- Bake the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, spread evenly, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Storage Options
Our Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole holds up beautifully in both the fridge and freezer. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking, and they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave, making this dish a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.
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Enjoy this hearty and comforting Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole that brings warmth and joy to your table!
