Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella

—

## **Step-by-Step Instructions:**

### **1. Prepare the Potatoes**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add your **diced potatoes**. Cook them for about **10-12 minutes**, or until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside.

### **2. Cook the Sausage**
While the potatoes are cooking, heat **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **sausage**, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly and browns nicely. After about **5-7 minutes**, add the **onion** and **garlic** to the pan, cooking for another **2-3 minutes** until the onions become soft and translucent. Season the mixture with **salt**, **pepper**, **paprika**, and **dried thyme**. Once the sausage is fully cooked and the onions are softened, remove the pan from the heat.

### **3. Combine Potatoes, Sausage, and Dairy**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **cooked potatoes**, **sausage mixture**, and **sour cream**. Gently fold everything together until well mixed. Add the **milk** and stir until the ingredients are well combined. At this point, the mixture should be creamy but not too wet. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

### **4. Assemble the Casserole**
Transfer the mixture into a greased **9×13-inch baking dish**. Spread it out evenly, pressing down gently to ensure it holds its shape. Top with the shredded **mozzarella cheese** and **cheddar cheese**, making sure the entire top is covered with cheesy goodness.

### **5. Bake the Casserole**
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden, and the casserole should be fully heated through.

### **6. Add the Finishing Touch**
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the top with **grated Parmesan cheese** for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and freshness. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

—

## **Serving Suggestions:**

– **Side Salad**: Pair this casserole with a crisp **green salad** or a simple **side of roasted vegetables** for a well-rounded meal.
– **Garlic Bread**: A warm, crusty loaf of **garlic bread** or **breadsticks** is a perfect accompaniment to soak up the cheesy, creamy sauce.
– **Steamed Vegetables**: For added nutrition, serve this casserole with a side of steamed broccoli, spinach, or green beans.

—

## **Why This Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole is a Family Favorite**

### **1. Filling and Satisfying**
This casserole is packed with hearty ingredients, making it incredibly **filling**. The combination of **potatoes** and **sausage** provides a satisfying base, while the **cheeses** add richness and depth of flavor. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight when you need something that will keep everyone full and happy.

### **2. Budget-Friendly**
With simple, affordable ingredients, this casserole is an excellent choice for anyone on a budget. Potatoes are inexpensive and can be found at any grocery store, while sausage is a versatile protein that can be found at a reasonable price.

### **3. Versatile for Different Diets**
You can easily customize this recipe to fit various dietary preferences. Swap in **vegetarian sausage** or **chicken sausage** for a lighter version. You can also use **dairy-free cheese** and **non-dairy sour cream** for a dairy-free option, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

—

## **Tips for the Perfect Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole**

✔️ **Make Ahead**: You can prep this casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake. Just allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

✔️ **Customize the Cheese**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to match your flavor preferences. **Gruyère**, **fontina**, or **gouda** would all be great alternatives to mozzarella and cheddar.

✔️ **Add Veggies**: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding **bell peppers**, **spinach**, or **mushrooms** to the sausage mixture. These vegetables will complement the flavors and add some color to the dish.

✔️ **For Extra Crunch**: Top the casserole with some **bread crumbs** or **crushed crackers** before baking for a bit of crunch. This will add texture and an extra layer of flavor.

—

## **Final Thoughts**

This **Baked Potato and Sausage Casserole with Mozzarella** is the ultimate comfort dish that combines hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and gooey cheese into one mouthwatering meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or even as a potluck dish. With its creamy potatoes, savory sausage, and melted cheese, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

So, next time you’re craving something warm, filling, and satisfying, give this casserole a try. It’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters and leave everyone asking for seconds! 🍽️🧀