This potato cheese and kielbasa casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of potatoes, melted cheese, and smoky kielbasa sausage. It is a perfect one-pot meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The potatoes are tender, the cheese is melty, and the kielbasa adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for chilly nights or any time you are craving a comforting and cheesy casserole.
Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the kielbasa sausage slices over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes and cook until they are lightly browned and tender. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add the salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked potatoes, half of the cooked kielbasa slices, and half of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Kielbasa is a Polish smoked sausage that adds a rich and smoky flavor to the casserole.
Potatoes are a versatile and staple ingredient in American cuisine, perfect for making comforting and filling dishes.
Cheese lovers will enjoy the gooey and melted cheddar cheese in this casserole.