Sausage Potato Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 80 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
• 1 pound bulk mild Italian sausage
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red sweet pepper
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded pepper Jack cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Finely chopped chives for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan of lightly salted, boiling water, cook the sliced potatoes for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Meanwhile, in a 10-inch skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Drain the sausage mixture and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded pepper Jack cheese and black pepper. Set aside.
5. Layer half of the cooked potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the sausage mixture over the potatoes, then pour half of the soup mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage mixture, and soup mixture.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 1/4 cups of cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the casserole stand for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with finely chopped chives.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 618
• Total Fat: 38g (48% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 17g (85% DV)
• Cholesterol: 86mg (29% DV)
• Sodium: 1213mg (53% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g (14% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 31g (63% DV)
• Vitamin C: 19mg (21% DV)
• Calcium: 455mg (35% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (16% DV)
• Potassium: 1091mg (23% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin Story

The Sausage Potato Casserole, a quintessential American comfort food, is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century. The dish is a reflection of the growing trend in post-WWII America toward simple, hearty meals that could feed families affordably and efficiently. With the combination of potatoes, sausage, and creamy ingredients like mushroom soup, this casserole became a staple in many American households, particularly in the Midwest, where comfort foods have deep cultural roots.

Regional Variations

While this casserole is beloved across the U.S., regional variations exist. In the South, for example, spicy sausage like chorizo might be substituted, adding a kick of heat to the dish. In some areas, bell peppers and onions are swapped for other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini, depending on seasonal availability. The dish's adaptability makes it a versatile canvas for different flavors and ingredients. In some families, it is made with a variety of cheeses, or even topped with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, the Sausage Potato Casserole may seem similar to other casserole dishes that combine meat and potatoes, such as the famous Shepherds Pie or even the popular scalloped potatoes. However, what sets this dish apart is its use of Italian sausage, which infuses the casserole with savory, herbaceous flavors. Additionally, the inclusion of a creamy base, often with mushroom soup, gives this casserole a rich and indulgent texture that differentiates it from the typically drier or more layered components in other potato-based casseroles.

Where It Is Typically Served

The Sausage Potato Casserole is often served at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinner parties. Its hearty, filling nature makes it perfect for cold weather meals or when you need to feed a crowd. It is a frequent choice for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas, offering a comforting side dish that pairs well with roast meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. In addition to being served as a side dish, it can also be the star of a simple dinner, paired with a side salad or fresh bread.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that casseroles like this one were first popularized during the Great Depression and World War II? The dish made use of inexpensive ingredients like potatoes and sausage, which were often readily available, allowing families to stretch their food budgets further. Additionally, casseroles became a symbol of home-cooked comfort, offering both warmth and nutritional balance. Today, while the dish is still enjoyed in its traditional form, it has evolved into countless variations that reflect contemporary tastes, such as low-fat or vegetarian adaptations.

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