Growing up, the aroma of kielbasa potato casserole bubbling away in the oven always meant one thing: a family gathering filled with laughter, love, and a hearty meal that warmed both body and soul. It’s a dish that brings back memories of Sunday afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where my sister Ouma and I would peek over the counter, eager to lend a hand or taste a morsel. This recipe, rich with tradition and flavor, is a tribute to those cherished moments. It’s a dish that’s simple enough to serve on a busy weeknight yet special enough to grace a holiday table, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.
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Why You’ll Love This Kielbasa Potato Casserole
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines the savory smokiness of kielbasa with creamy potatoes and melted cheese. This kielbasa potato casserole is a celebration of flavors and textures, and it’s one that holds a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, just like Mama Lou’s kitchen did all those years ago. Whether you’re looking for a meal that can feed a crowd or something that can be easily reheated for leftovers, this casserole has you covered. Its warm, inviting flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a staple in our home.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Kielbasa Potato Casserole
To create this heartwarming dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kielbasa sausage | 1 lb, sliced |
| Russet potatoes | 4 cups, peeled and diced |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) |
If you’re looking to make substitutions, feel free to swap cheddar for any cheese you love, like gouda or mozzarella. For a lighter version, you can use milk instead of heavy cream, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this kielbasa potato casserole:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Ultimate Comfort: Kielbasa Potato Casserole Delight
Indulge in this hearty Kielbasa Potato Casserole Delight, perfect for a cozy family meal. Rich in flavor and comfort, this dish brings together the savory taste of kielbasa with creamy potatoes and melted cheese.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
To create this heartwarming dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Kielbasa sausage | 1 lb, sliced |
| Russet potatoes | 4 cups, peeled and diced |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) |
If you’re looking to make substitutions, feel free to swap cheddar for any cheese you love, like gouda or mozzarella. For a lighter version, you can use milk instead of heavy cream, though it may alter the creaminess slightly.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook until slightly browned.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced potatoes, cooked onions, kielbasa, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour heavy cream over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: undefined
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: undefined
- Sodium: undefined
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: undefined
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Steps to Create Your Kielbasa Potato Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s patience in the kitchen, taking the time to build flavors.
- Add the sliced kielbasa to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the edges to brown slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cooked onion and kielbasa, shredded cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Making the Best Kielbasa Potato Casserole
Here are some tips to ensure your kielbasa potato casserole turns out perfectly:
- Use Russet potatoes: Their starchiness helps create a creamy texture.
- Don’t skip browning the kielbasa: It adds depth of flavor and a lovely caramelization.
- Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes helps it set, making it easier to serve.
As Mama Lou used to say, “Good things come to those who wait,” and allowing those flavors to meld is worth every second.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This kielbasa potato casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans, adding a fresh contrast to the rich, hearty dish. For a truly nostalgic experience, serve it alongside a loaf of crusty bread, just like my sister Ouma and I would enjoy on those cozy, family-filled evenings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternately, you can cover the dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers? While the casserole can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes may change upon reheating. If you do freeze it, I recommend reheating in the oven rather than the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a kielbasa potato casserole is more than just creating a meal; it’s about embracing tradition, family, and the simple joys of life. As you savor each bite, I hope you’re reminded of the warmth and love that comes with gathering around the table with those you hold dear. Just like the aroma that filled Mama Lou’s kitchen, may this dish bring comfort and joy to your home, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
