There’s nothing quite like a hearty, cheesy casserole to bring the family together, especially on a busy weeknight. This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas and delivers big on flavor. 

Growing up, my mom always made some variation of a cheesy potato bake, and now, I find myself making it for my own family. The combination of smoky kielbasa, creamy cheddar, and tender potatoes is simply irresistible—and the best part? It’s easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Comforting – Loaded with sausage, cheese, and creamy potatoes, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
• One-Pan Wonder – Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.
• Kid-Approved – The cheesy goodness and mild spice make it a family favorite.
• Customizable – You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb sausage kielbasa – Cut into small pieces for a perfect bite in every forkful.
• 1 cup diced onions – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the casserole extra creamy and rich.
• 1 1/2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a subtle, savory kick.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Enhances the flavors while keeping the casserole moist.
• 10.5 oz can cheddar cheese soup – Brings a velvety, cheesy base to the dish. Half a can will suffice! 
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
• ½ cup water  – Helps adjust the consistency as needed. Recommended to use ⅛ cup at a time.
• 1 tsp Slap Ya Mama seasoning – Adds just the right amount of spice.
• 1 tsp pepper – Balances the flavors with a mild heat.
• 2 1/2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into ½” cubes – The heart of the dish, giving it a satisfying texture.
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin – Adds a hint of warmth and smokiness.

Optional Add-Ons

• Bell Peppers – For a pop of color and a slight crunch.
• Green Onions – Adds a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
• Bacon Bits – For an extra layer of smoky goodness.
• Crushed Crackers or Panko – A crispy topping for texture.
• Jalapeños – If you love a bit of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to  350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced kielbasa and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown. Add the diced onions and continue cooking until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, cheddar cheese soup, water, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, pepper, and cumin until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the diced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
• Layer the cooked kielbasa and onions over the potatoes.
• Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 65-70 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.

Best Paired With

This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole pairs well with:

• Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add freshness and color to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: A crispy side of garlic bread complements the cheesy goodness.
• Pickles or Sauerkraut: The acidity cuts through the richness, making for a well-rounded bite.

Storage and Serving

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes or microwave in short intervals.

Tips for Success

• Cut potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.
• Pre-cook potatoes for 5 minutes if you prefer a softer texture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

Substitutes and Variations

• Swap Kielbasa for Smoked Sausage – If you want a different smoky flavor.
• Use Sweet Potatoes – A slightly healthier twist with a hint of sweetness.
• Make It Spicier – Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce.

Nutritional Breakdown

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	515 kcal
Protein	18g
Carbs	10g
Fat	45g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	1200mg

What Others Are Saying About The Recipe

• Sarah R. – “I made this for my family last Sunday, and we all went back for seconds! My husband, Greg, who is usually picky about casseroles, said it was one of the best meals I’ve made. Definitely adding this to our regular meal rotation!”
• Mike L. – “I’m not much of a cook, but this recipe was so easy to follow. The flavors were spot on! I added some crispy bacon bits on top, and it took the dish to the next level. ”
• Emily D. – “As a mom of three, I need quick and hearty meals that everyone loves, and this casserole was a total hit! My kids cleaned their plates, and my youngest even asked for more. That never happens!”

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend for more depth.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be bubbly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker? 

Absolutely! Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This Kielbasa Sausage Cheesy Potato Casserole is one of those foolproof recipes that never fails to satisfy. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I love how easy it is to make, and it’s become one of my go-to comfort meals. Try it out, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your home too!