Kielbasa Cheesy Potato Casserole (Printable Recipe)
Smoky kielbasa layered with tender potatoes in creamy cheddar sauce, baked until golden and bubbly for ultimate comfort.
# Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Main Components
01 -
3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
02 -
1 pound smoked kielbasa sausage, sliced
→ Cheese Sauce Base
03 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
04 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
05 -
1 1/2 cups 2% milk
06 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
07 -
1 can (284ml) cheddar cheese soup
08 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Seasonings & Aromatics
09 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 -
2 teaspoons minced garlic
11 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
12 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 -
1 teaspoon salt
14 -
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Peel and cube potatoes into even pieces. Boil in well-salted water until fork-tender, about 7 minutes. Drain thoroughly and arrange in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and sauté until caramelized and deeply browned, about 5 minutes. Scatter evenly over the potatoes.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt butter and add flour. Whisk continuously and cook gently until mixture becomes pale golden and raw flour taste disappears, 2-3 minutes.
04 -
Add minced garlic and bloom for 30 seconds. Gradually pour in milk and cream, whisking quickly to eliminate lumps. Add cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese soup. Cook and stir over medium heat until thick and glossy, 3-4 minutes.
05 -
Remove pan from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Allow to melt completely until sauce is rich and smooth.
06 -
Pour cheese sauce evenly over potatoes and kielbasa, using a spoon to help it penetrate all edges. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Use freshly shredded cheese from a block as pre-shredded varieties contain starches that prevent optimal melting
02 -
Let casserole rest 15 minutes after baking before slicing to maintain neat layers and creamy sauce consistency
03 -
For extra crunch, top with buttery breadcrumbs during the last 10 minutes of baking
04 -
Casserole reheats beautifully and can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated before baking