Cheesy Sausage Casserole
A hearty, cheesy sausage casserole that combines savory ground beef, spicy sausage, and flavorful vegetables, all baked with gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures with a satisfying, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 lb. hot bulk sausage ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 large green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 17 oz. can cream-style corn ⓘ
- 15 oz. can chili with beans ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
- 2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 12 oz. pkg. wide egg noodles ⓘ
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef and sausage in a large skillet.
- Add chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over medium heat until meat is browned and onion is tender.
- Drain well.
- Stir in cream-style corn, chili with beans, chili powder, tomato sauce, and shredded Cheddar cheese, mixing well.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 3-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh onion and green pepper for convenience. If you'd like to spice it up, try adding jalapeños or using a spicy sausage. This recipe is reminiscent of other hearty American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a light dressing to contrast the richness of the cheese and sausage. For an added crunch, consider topping with crushed tortilla chips just before serving. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Sausage Casserole contains roughly 348 calories, with 21g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1398mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it melts well.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly and store for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. If you've baked it first, let it cool completely before freezing.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef and sausage with plant-based meat alternatives or simply use more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Ensure you use vegetarian chili and omit cheese or use plant-based cheese for a fully vegetarian option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).