Sausage Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Looking for a hearty, one-pan meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This sausage casserole—a savory green bean potato bake—is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Combining juicy sausages, tender potatoes, and crisp green beans in a rich, seasoned bake, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.
As someone who’s tested countless casserole recipes, I can confidently say this dish stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a casual gathering, this sausage casserole adapts effortlessly to your needs. Plus, it pairs beautifully with other easy favorites like sheet-pan vinegar chicken or a light salad for a balanced spread.
Why does this recipe work so well? The magic lies in the layers of texture and flavor—each bite delivers smoky sausage, creamy potatoes, and a slight crunch from the beans. It’s a complete meal in one dish, perfect for those nights when you want minimal cleanup without sacrificing taste. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Ingredients List
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serves: 6 people
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this hearty sausage casserole is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a delicious one-pan meal.
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked. Break it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Spread diced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Top with green beans, followed by the cooked sausage. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, stir gently, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and golden.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Let the sausage casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
This sausage casserole is a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Here’s the breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 16g (6g saturated)
For a lighter twist, try swapping pork sausage for turkey sausage or adding extra veggies like bell peppers. If you love sheet-pan meals, our vinegar chicken recipe offers another fuss-free dinner option. Nutritionists at The Stay at Home Chef recommend pairing this dish with a fiber-rich side like Cuban black beans for a complete meal.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want a lighter version of this hearty sausage casserole? Try these simple swaps to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Replace regular sausages with lean turkey or chicken sausages—they’re lower in fat but still pack a protein punch. For a plant-based twist, opt for meatless sausage alternatives like those made from lentils or mushrooms.
Swap white potatoes for sweet potatoes to add fiber and vitamins. If you’re watching carbs, cauliflower florets make a great potato substitute. Instead of canned green beans, use fresh or frozen varieties for better texture and fewer preservatives. A drizzle of olive oil works just as well as butter for roasting, and you can reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth or homemade stock.
For extra inspiration, check out our cauliflower fried rice recipe or explore slow-cooker beef dishes for more healthy comfort food ideas. If you love balancing flavors, a spinach salad with balsamic dressing pairs wonderfully with this lighter casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This sausage casserole shines as a standalone dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Serve it with a crusty whole-grain baguette to soak up the savory juices, or try our cheesy tortilla casserole for a Tex-Mex twist. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing adds freshness, while roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the earthy flavors.
For brunch, top individual servings with a fried egg for extra richness. If you’re hosting, pair it with pumpkin cornbread muffins for a seasonal touch. Leftovers? Chop them into a breakfast hash or stuff them into whole-wheat wraps with avocado. Craving dessert? Finish with honey-pecan cookies or our creamy smothered chicken for another cozy dinner option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls when making your sausage casserole to ensure perfect results every time:
- Overcrowding the pan: Spread ingredients evenly for even cooking. Crowding leads to steaming instead of browning.
- Underseasoning: Sausage adds flavor, but don’t skip salt, pepper, or herbs. Taste before baking.
- Using watery vegetables: Pat green beans dry to prevent a soggy casserole. For extra crispness, try roasting veggies separately first.
- Overcooking potatoes: Cut them uniformly so they cook evenly. Test with a fork at the 30-minute mark.
Pro tip: For deeper flavor, brown sausages first, as shown in this braising technique guide. Pair leftovers with our chicken and potato bake for meal-prep variety.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Maximize freshness with these storage hacks:
- Refrigeration: Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of broth.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe bags (remove air) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Ingredient prep: Parboil potatoes and blanch green beans in advance to speed up assembly. Learn more in our meal-prep chicken guide.
For longer shelf life, vacuum-seal portions—this cookie storage method works for savory dishes too. Serve reheated casserole with a fresh fruit side to brighten flavors.
Conclusion
This sausage casserole recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and hearty ingredients like sausage, green beans, and potatoes, it delivers comfort food at its finest. The one-pan method ensures easy cleanup, while the flavors meld beautifully for a satisfying meal.
If you loved this dish, try our chicken broccoli potato casserole for another wholesome bake. For more quick dinner ideas, check out our sheet pan chicken shawarma—perfect for meal prepping!
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage works well for a leaner option. Adjust cooking time slightly as they cook faster.
How do I prevent the potatoes from turning mushy?
Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes and avoid overcooking. Parboiling for 5 minutes before baking helps maintain texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating at 350°F until warmed through.
What’s the best cheese topping?
Sharp cheddar or Gruyère adds richness, but Parmesan crisps up nicely for a golden finish.
Can I make this ahead?
Assemble the casserole (unbaked) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
