Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole Recipe

When comfort food meets convenience, you get this incredible Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. This hearty one-dish meal combines savory sausage, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes in a rich, flavorful sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, and it never fails to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What is “Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole”?

Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal that combines protein, vegetables, and starch in a single baking dish. This comforting casserole features layers of sliced potatoes, fresh or frozen green beans, and savory sausage, all bound together with a creamy sauce and topped with cheese.

The dish originated from the tradition of one-pot meals that were popular among busy families who needed nutritious, filling dinners that could feed a crowd without requiring multiple pots and pans. It’s the perfect example of comfort food at its finest – simple, satisfying, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients List for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

• 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼-inch thick
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Cook Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward when you follow these detailed steps. Take your time with each step to ensure the best results:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Wash and slice the potatoes into even ¼-inch rounds for uniform cooking.
• Trim the green beans and cut them into manageable 2-inch pieces.

2. Cook the Sausage:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
• Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the diced onion to the same skillet with the sausage drippings.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth.
• Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and paprika to the mixture.
• Stir in ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

• Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the potatoes.
• Add the sautéed green bean mixture as the next layer.
• Top with the remaining sliced potatoes, overlapping slightly.
• Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire casserole.

6. Bake to Perfection:

• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
• Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and check if the potatoes are tender.
• Continue baking uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

7. Rest and Serve:

• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile casserole can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences:

• Sausage Options: Try turkey sausage for a lighter option, or chorizo for a spicier kick. Chicken sausage works well too.
• Potato Alternatives: Sweet potatoes can be substituted for a sweeter flavor profile, or use red potatoes for a different texture.
• Green Bean Substitutes: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts can replace green beans for variety.
• Cheese Variations: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère can be used instead of cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Cutting Potatoes Too Thick: Thick potato slices won’t cook evenly and may remain hard in the center.
• Not Precooking the Sausage: Raw sausage will release excess grease and won’t develop proper flavor.
• Overcooking the Green Beans: They should be tender-crisp, not mushy, when the casserole is done.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to prevent it from falling apart when served.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients combine better and cook more evenly.

How to Serve Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

This hearty casserole is substantial enough to serve as a main dish, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. I recommend serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness, and some crusty bread or dinner rolls for sopping up the delicious sauce.

For a more complete meal, consider adding a light soup course or a simple fruit salad as a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy casserole. The dish is perfect for family dinners, potluck gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.

Presentation Ideas for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

Make your casserole look as good as it tastes with these presentation tips:

• Individual Portions: Serve in small ramekins for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.
• Colorful Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a pop of color.
• Rustic Charm: Serve directly from the baking dish for a homestyle, family-friendly presentation.
• Layered Beauty: Cut clean squares to show off the beautiful layers of the casserole.

Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are my tried-and-true tips for casserole success:

• Even Slicing: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure uniform potato slices for even cooking.
• Season Each Layer: Lightly season the potatoes with salt and pepper as you layer them.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to prevent the potatoes from becoming gummy.
• Test for Doneness: Pierce the potatoes with a fork to ensure they’re tender before removing from the oven.
• Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.

How to Store Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

Proper storage will keep your casserole fresh and delicious for several days:

Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap. For longer storage, individual portions can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Absolutely! Thaw and drain frozen green beans before using. They may require slightly less cooking time than fresh beans.

Q: What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can substitute with cream of chicken soup, or make a white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

Q: Can this recipe be doubled?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch dishes. Cooking time may increase slightly.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the top should be golden brown with the cheese melted and bubbly.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Certainly! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn would be excellent additions. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before adding to the casserole.

Conclusion

This Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food – hearty, satisfying, and incredibly delicious. I’ve shared this recipe with countless friends and family members, and it never fails to impress. The combination of savory sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or preparing for a potluck gathering, this casserole delivers on both flavor and convenience. The best part is how adaptable it is – you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.

Take your time with the preparation, follow the steps carefully, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with different seasonings or vegetables. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. Enjoy every comforting, delicious bite!