Favorite Sausage Casserole
A hearty sausage casserole with melted cheese, tender potatoes, and peas, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage links or sliced kielbasa in a skillet. Add chopped onions and cook until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook briefly to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded sharp cheese and stir until melted.
- Combine cooked potatoes and thawed peas into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into an 11 3/4 x 7 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Top with additional cheese and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting turkey sausage for the smoked sausage. You can also use low-fat cheese to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. If you don't have sharp cheese, medium cheddar works well too. Make sure to cook the flour long enough to avoid a raw taste. Adding a dash of garlic powder can enhance the flavor further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with a side of creamy coleslaw. This dish also goes well with other hearty American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Sausage Casserole contains roughly 1261 calories, with 28g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (74% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1028mg per serving (45% 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 sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian or chicken sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. Each type will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, making it versatile and customizable.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold.
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).