Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: sausage green bean potato casserole. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day! I remember the first time I made it; my friend was over, and we were both just blown away by how delicious and hearty it was. The combination of savory sausage, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes creates a medley of flavors that just dance on your tongue. Seriously, every bite is pure bliss!
This casserole is not just delicious, it’s also incredibly easy to throw together, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends. I love how versatile it is—you can easily swap in different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. Plus, it fills the house with the most amazing aroma while it bakes, making it hard to wait until it’s ready to dive in! Trust me, once you make this sausage green bean potato casserole, it’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your home too!
Ingredients for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
- 1 pound of ground sausage – I usually go for a nice, savory pork sausage, but you can use any kind you love!
- 4 cups of green beans, trimmed – Fresh or frozen, they both work great! Just make sure to trim those ends for a neat presentation.
- 4 cups of potatoes, diced into 1-inch cubes – I like using russet or Yukon gold for their creaminess, but any variety will do!
- 1 medium onion, chopped – It adds such a lovely depth of flavor; don’t skip this one!
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese – The gooier, the better! I prefer sharp cheddar for that extra kick.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup – This is the secret weapon for creaminess; it ties everything together beautifully.
- 1 cup of milk – I use whole milk, but feel free to swap it for whatever you have on hand.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Remember, seasoning is key! Start with a little, and adjust as needed.
How to Prepare Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want your casserole to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- While the oven warms up, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground sausage and 1 chopped onion. Cook these together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the onion is soft. This step is key for developing flavor, so don’t rush it!
- Once your sausage and onion are looking delicious, it’s time to combine the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, toss in the cooked sausage and onion mixture, along with 4 cups of trimmed green beans and 4 cups of diced potatoes. The colors will be so vibrant, it’s like a little rainbow in your bowl!
- Next, pour in the 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk. This is where the magic happens! Stir everything together until well combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit thick; that’s just part of the charm!
- Now, season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I like to start with about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, then adjust from there. Remember to taste as you go to ensure it’s just right for you!
- Transfer this hearty mixture into a greased casserole dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely all around. You want every spoonful to have that perfect mix of sausage, beans, and potatoes!
- Finally, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. The more cheese, the merrier, right? This will create a gorgeous, gooey topping that everyone will love.
- Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the potatoes are tender and that cheesy top is bubbling beautifully. Keep an eye on it towards the end, just in case your oven runs a bit hot!
- Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it! Enjoy your comforting, hearty sausage green bean potato casserole!
Nutritional Information for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
So, let’s talk about what you’re getting in each hearty serving of this delicious sausage green bean potato casserole. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients I typically use, so they might vary a bit depending on your specific choices. Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This casserole is not only filling but also packed with protein, making it a great choice for a comforting meal. Just imagine all that cheesy goodness and savory sausage coming together in one bowl! Perfect for those chilly nights when you need something hearty to warm you up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation: This casserole comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready for the oven.
- Hearty and filling: Each serving is packed with protein and veggies, making it a satisfying dish that will keep you full and happy.
- Family-friendly flavors: The combination of savory sausage, creamy potatoes, and crisp green beans is a hit with both kids and adults—everyone will be asking for seconds!
- Versatile with ingredient substitutions: Don’t have a specific vegetable on hand? No problem! You can easily swap in your favorites or whatever’s in your fridge, making this recipe adaptable for any occasion.
Tips for Success with Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
Alright, let’s make sure your sausage green bean potato casserole turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t skimp on browning the sausage and onion; this step really builds flavor, so take your time and let them get nice and golden. Also, if you’re using fresh green beans, give them a quick blanch in boiling water for a couple of minutes. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crunch in the casserole.
When it comes to the potatoes, cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes is key. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender at the same time as everything else. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-diced frozen potatoes to save a few minutes!
As for seasoning, I love to sprinkle a bit of garlic powder or paprika into the mix for added depth. Don’t forget to taste your mixture before it goes into the oven—adjust the salt and pepper as needed. And remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. With these tips, your casserole is bound to impress!
Variations of Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
Now, let’s get a little creative with this sausage green bean potato casserole! One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun variations that can add a twist to your classic recipe:
- Different Proteins: While I love using ground sausage, you can easily swap it for turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try diced ham or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick fix!
- Veggie Medley: Mix up the veggies! You could add bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly for anything that might take longer to become tender.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Experiment with different cheeses! Instead of cheddar, try pepper jack for a little heat, or gouda for a smoky flavor. You can even mix in some cream cheese for an ultra-creamy texture!
- Herbs and Spices: Spice things up with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or even a dash of cayenne pepper can really elevate the flavor profile!
- Vegan Version: For a plant-based twist, use a plant-based sausage or lentils instead of meat, and swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought vegan version. You can also replace the milk with almond or oat milk!
- Seasonal Variations: Change it up with seasonal produce! In the fall, add some diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes. In the spring, asparagus or peas can brighten up the dish!
The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this casserole so much fun! Don’t hesitate to mix and match based on your family’s preferences or what you have in your pantry. Each variation brings its own charm to the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
Let’s talk about how to keep that delicious sausage green bean potato casserole fresh and tasty! First off, if you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because they’re just as good the next day!), let the casserole cool down completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make things soggy.
For storing, grab an airtight container and transfer your leftover casserole into it. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to seal it well so it doesn’t absorb any other flavors from the fridge. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then pop it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. If you’re reheating in the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you want to add a little freshness, sprinkle some extra cheese on top during the last 5-10 minutes of heating!
Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, which is super convenient. Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap the steam, and heat for about 2-3 minutes. If it’s still a bit cold in the middle, give it another 30 seconds. This method is quick and keeps the casserole nice and creamy!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your sausage green bean potato casserole whenever the craving strikes!
Serving Suggestions for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
Alright, let’s talk about what to serve alongside your delicious sausage green bean potato casserole. This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but a few well-chosen sides can really elevate your meal! Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the casserole. I love a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette—something light to balance out the heartiness of the dish!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s great for soaking up any creamy goodness left on your plate. Plus, it adds that cozy, comforting vibe!
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious addition. Try roasting carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until they’re tender and caramelized.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and acidity to cut through the richness of the casserole. It’s easy to whip up, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients!
- Fruit Compote: For a touch of sweetness, a simple fruit compote can be a delightful side. Think of something like apples or pears cooked down with a hint of cinnamon—perfect for a comforting meal!
- Pickles or Relish: A little tang from pickles or a side of relish can be fantastic. It adds that zingy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory casserole.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you and your family enjoy! With these suggestions, you’ll create a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Happy serving!
PrintSausage Green Bean Potato Casserole: 7 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty casserole with sausage, green beans, and potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 4 cups green beans
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the sausage and onion over medium heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, green beans, potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Notes
- Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Use fresh or frozen green beans.
- Add spices for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: sausage green bean potato casserole