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Smoky Kielbasa & Cheesy Potato Casserole

Smoky Kielbasa & Cheesy Potato Casserole

Smoky Kielbasa & Cheesy Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish ideal for family dinners. It combines tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to a golden crust. This one-dish meal is easy to prepare, packed with bold smoky flavors, and loved by all ages, making it perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb smoky kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cubed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Peel (optional) and cube the potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic for the flavor base.
  2. Sauté Kielbasa and Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until lightly browned and smoky. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
  3. Boil Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for about 8 minutes or until just tender but not falling apart. Drain well to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
  4. Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Stir until smooth and creamy, forming the cheese sauce that will coat the casserole.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish. Layer the drained potatoes and kielbasa mixture evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and gently stir to integrate while keeping the layers visible.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown and the dish is heated through.

Notes

  • Even potato cuts: Cut potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking and avoid mushy pieces.
  • Don’t overboil potatoes: Keep potatoes slightly firm to maintain texture after baking.
  • Use sharp cheddar: Adds depth and balances the creaminess of the cheese sauce.
  • Let it rest: Allow casserole to sit 10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
  • Double the sauce: For extra cheesy comfort, double the cheese sauce ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: kielbasa, cheesy potato casserole, smoky sausage casserole, comfort food, family dinner, baked casserole