There is nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a baked casserole that combines hearty, flavorful kielbasa sausage with creamy, cheesy potatoes for a dish that the whole family will adore. This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe brings together tender diced hash browns, melty cheddar cheese, and rich sour cream in an irresistible way that feels like a big, delicious hug from the oven. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this casserole is sure to hit the spot with its perfect blend of savory sausage and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create the magic of this casserole. Each component adds something special—from the smoky kielbasa that gives a savory punch, to the creamy textures that make every bite indulgent and satisfying.
- Kielbasa sausage (14 oz, sliced): Adds a smoky, meaty flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Frozen diced hash brown potatoes (32 oz, thawed): Provides the hearty potato base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully to create a rich, gooey texture throughout the casserole.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Brings a velvety, savory depth that binds the ingredients together.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and extra creaminess for layers of delicious flavor.
- Milk (½ cup): Lightens the mixture slightly while keeping it moist and tender.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses subtle warmth and aroma into every bite.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances savory undertones without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Balances and highlights all the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Drizzled on top to create a golden, crispy finish during baking.
- Optional garnishes (chopped green onions or parsley): Add fresh color and a pop of brightness when serving.
How to Make Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the sliced kielbasa until it’s nicely browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial as it unlocks the sausage’s smoky, savory flavors and adds a little crispness that will stand out in the creamy casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, browned kielbasa, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s fully mixed and creamy, ensuring that every bite will be packed with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Transfer and Prep for Baking
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly, then pour in the mixture, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking. Drizzle the melted butter over the top—this is the secret ingredient for a golden, buttery crust that makes this casserole truly irresistible.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole uncovered in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 40 to 45 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. The kitchen will start to fill with mouth-watering aromas as the cheese melts and the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps everything settle, making it easier to serve and even more delicious to eat. For a touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving.
How to Serve Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley makes all the difference, adding a lovely burst of color and a mild, fresh flavor that brightens the richness of the casserole. You can also experiment with a little paprika or thinly sliced red chili for some vibrant contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a hearty main, so pairing it with light, crisp sides balances the meal perfectly. Think a zingy garden salad with vinaigrette, roasted green beans, or steamed broccoli. These will add freshness and softness to complement the rich, cheesy potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve it straight from the baking dish to keep things warm and cozy. If you’re hosting a potluck or brunch, consider portioning it into individual ramekins for a fun and elegant presentation. You can also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving for a wow-factor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness, making sure it stays just as comforting the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, it freezes wonderfully. Assemble the casserole in your baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This makes meal prep a breeze for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover casserole in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but reheating in the oven helps maintain that perfect crispy top and melty texture we all love.
FAQs
Can I substitute other types of sausage for kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa provides a distinctive smoky flavor, you can use smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chorizo for different flavor profiles. Just be mindful of the spice levels and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is it necessary to thaw the frozen hash browns before mixing?
Yes, thawing the hash browns prevents excess moisture in the casserole and helps achieve the ideal creamy consistency rather than a watery dish.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this casserole dairy-free, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream soup, and replace sour cream with a plant-based version. Keep flavors balanced with seasoning.
What can I do to add some spice to the casserole?
Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese. You can also top the casserole with hot sauce or spicy salsa for an extra kick.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe yields about 6 generous servings, which makes it perfect for a family meal or leftovers the next day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and packed with irresistible flavor, this Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and full of those cozy vibes that turn any meal into a special occasion. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to share this delicious casserole with people you love!
Print
Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring browned kielbasa sausage, tender hash brown potatoes, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead meal, this casserole bakes to golden, bubbly perfection and can be garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 (14 oz) package kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
Potatoes and Dairy
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook Kielbasa: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced kielbasa for 5–6 minutes until nicely browned and flavorful. This step develops wonderful caramelized flavor in the sausage.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the thawed hash browns, cooked kielbasa, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is uniform.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top to add richness and encourage a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. Bake until the casserole is hot and bubbly, with golden brown edges indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to set up and cool slightly for easier serving. Add optional chopped green onions or parsley on top for extra freshness and color before serving.
Notes
- You can swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup to vary the flavor profile.
- Using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar adds a spicy kick to the casserole.
- This dish works great as a make-ahead meal—assemble it and refrigerate until ready to bake.
