Sausage Potato Green Bean Casserole: A Heartfelt Family Favorite
There’s something magical about the savory aroma wafting through the air as the Sausage Potato Green Bean Casserole bakes in the oven. Like a warm embrace, this dish wraps you in comforting scents of seasoned sausage, creamy potatoes, and vibrant green beans. It’s a meal that tells a story, conjuring memories of family gatherings, laughter echoing through the kitchen, and a shared love for hearty food that nourishes the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beyond its delightful taste and satisfying textures, this casserole stands out for many reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With just a little prep, you can have this comforting dinner ready in under an hour.
- A Family Affair: This dish brings everyone to the table, encouraging stories and laughter shared over a cozy meal.
- Festive and Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this casserole adapts effortlessly to any gathering.
- Indulgent Treat: Creamy, cheesy goodness paired with hearty sausage offers an indulgent treat for your taste buds.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the sausage and fiber from green beans, you can enjoy this casserole guilt-free.
Ingredients with Notes
This simple recipe calls for a few quality ingredients—a list that reads like a classic pantry staple.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for creaminess)
- 2 cups fresh green beans (trimmed and cut for bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup onion (sweet or yellow, diced for a hint of sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic (fresh, minced for depth of flavor)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade for a fresher touch)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt works as a healthy substitute)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that gooey, melty goodness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste; fresh herbs can elevate the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional for an aromatic kick)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
This casserole might take a little time in the oven, but each minute is rewarded tenfold in flavor and warmth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.
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Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly. You’ll love the scent as it begins to brown—this is your flavor base.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Layer the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, green beans, cooked sausage mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly—you’ll notice how vibrant and colorful it looks.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. This will melt beautifully and create a deliciously gooey layer.
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Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the potatoes tender.
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Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This is when the flavors meld beautifully.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, and swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a protein boost.
- Seasonal Twists: In the summer, add fresh corn or diced tomatoes; in autumn, consider adding pumpkin or butternut squash for a comforting touch.
- Flavor Upgrades: For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or BBQ sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish right before serving.
Serving Ideas
Imagine serving this casserole at a family gathering, accompanied by a fresh side salad and warm crusty bread. It’s the kind of dish that pairs well with a light red wine for a cozy night in or a sparkling cider for a festive family feast. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday celebrations, this nourishing casserole invites everyone to gather around the table and savor each bite.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, it freezes wonderfully for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Season the Layers: Always season each layer as you go to build depth of flavor. A pinch of salt here and there goes a long way.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices settle, making for easier serving and better flavor.
- Fresh Herbs at the End: Consider adding fresh parsley or chives just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen green beans work well! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before adding them.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- What sides pair best with this casserole? A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with your loved ones, serving up this Sausage Potato Green Bean Casserole, remember that it’s not just a meal; it’s a reminder of togetherness and the love that nourishes our lives. I encourage you to try this recipe and witness the joy it brings to your family. Share it with those you cherish, and let its warmth fill your home. Happiness is best served at the table, after all!
Contents
Sausage Potato Green Bean Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) Your choice of flavor
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes Yukon Gold or red potatoes for creaminess
- 2 cups fresh green beans Trimmed and cut for bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup onion Sweet or yellow, diced for a hint of sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic Fresh, minced for depth of flavor
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup Or homemade for a fresher touch
- 1/2 cup sour cream Greek yogurt works as a healthy substitute
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For gooey, melty goodness
- Salt and pepper To taste; fresh herbs can elevate the flavor
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Optional for an aromatic kick
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced potatoes, green beans, cooked sausage mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9Ă—13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden and potatoes are tender.
- Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest