Bring the warmth of family gatherings into your kitchen with this beloved sausage and potato casserole recipe, infused with spring vegetables. This dish is not only a testament to the comforting power of home-cooked meals but also a favorite of my father-in-law whenever he visits. It's perfect for any family dinner or festive occasion.
Why This Casserole Wins Every Time
- Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for cozy evenings, this casserole combines the savory flavors of sausage with the heartiness of potatoes and freshness of spring vegetables.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable, this recipe can be tailored to include your favorite veggies or adjusted for dietary preferences.
- Family Favorite: Loved by adults and children alike, it's a guaranteed hit at any family gathering.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Sausage: 1 pound, sliced (your choice of meat or plant-based)
- Potatoes: 4 medium-sized, scrubbed and diced
- Asparagus: 1 cup, chopped
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Broth: 1 cup (chicken or vegetable)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparations
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the sausage until golden. Remove and set aside.
Cook Vegetables
- Sauté Potatoes: In the same skillet, add potatoes and cook until they begin to soften.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Introduce onions and garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients in Dish: Place the sausage, potatoes, onions, and asparagus in the prepared dish.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour over the broth, sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Baking
- Bake Covered: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove foil, top with cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Customization Tips
- Vegetarian Options: Substitute meat sausage with a plant-based variety.
- Alternate Vegetables: Swap asparagus for carrots or spinach as preferred.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in some sour cream or heavy cream to the potato mixture before baking.
Conclusion
This sausage and potato casserole with spring veggies is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of family, tradition, and the simple joys of eating together. It’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and sure to be requested time and again.