Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the sausage and seasonings.

#### Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Once the sausage is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

#### Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and milk. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will bind all the ingredients together and create a rich, velvety base for the casserole.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Season the first layer with a pinch of salt and pepper. Next, add a layer of cooked sausage, followed by a sprinkling of sautéed onions and garlic. Repeat the layers, ensuring that you end with a final layer of potatoes on top.

Pour the creamy mixture over the top of the casserole, making sure it soaks into all the layers. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. The mozzarella will melt beautifully as the casserole bakes, creating that irresistible gooey texture.

#### Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and enjoy this hearty, cheesy dish with your loved ones.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– **Comforting and Hearty**: The combination of potatoes and sausage provides a filling meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. It’s perfect for a chilly evening when you crave something warm and comforting.

– **Cheese Lovers’ Dream**: The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt into the casserole, creating a rich and indulgent topping that brings everything together.

– **Versatile**: You can easily switch up the sausage variety depending on your preferences. Spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, while a milder breakfast sausage creates a more subtle flavor. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

– **Make Ahead**: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great dish for busy days when you want to have a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

### Tips for Success

1. **Slice the Potatoes Evenly**: For the best results, slice the potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook uniformly.

2. **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: Layer the ingredients loosely to allow the sauce to soak into the potatoes, creating a more flavorful dish.

3. **Add More Veggies**: If you want to make the casserole even heartier, consider adding cooked broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the layers for a burst of color and nutrition.

4. **Leftovers**: This casserole makes excellent leftovers. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat it in the oven for a comforting meal the next day.

### Final Thoughts

This **Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella** is a comforting, cheesy, and filling meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a hearty dinner for your family, this casserole has you covered. It’s easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy this savory dish, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients!