Cheesy Sausage Potatoes

Cheesy Sausage Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole-style recipe is loaded with layers of sliced potatoes, cooked sausage, onions, and a creamy cheese sauce that brings everything together. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for feeding a hungry family or serving at a potluck. The golden, bubbly cheese on top adds a delicious finish to this satisfying and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage, casings removed)
• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles with a spatula. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Assemble the Dish: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the cooked sausage, followed by half of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the layers. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sausage, onion mixture, and cheese sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy these Cheesy Sausage Potatoes as a deliciously filling meal on their own or as a side dish. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and melted cheese makes it a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!