Casseroles have this magical way of bringing people together, much like the heartwarming gatherings of friends and family, where everyone’s connected through laughter and delightful stories. There’s something genuinely comforting about pulling a hot, bubbling casserole out of the oven—it’s like a hug in a dish form! Today, I’m excited to walk you through a delectable Sausage and Potato Casserole with Spring Veggies. This dish captures the essence of Midwestern comfort food while embracing the vibrant freshness of spring vegetables. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty yet fresh, a dish that fills the room with its enticing aroma and gathers everyone around the table.
This hearty casserole is a meal in itself, but it shines alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, adding a fresh crunch to your meal. For a touch of extra zest, consider serving it with tangy coleslaw or a side of applesauce, which complements the savory flavors of the sausage beautifully.
Sausage and Potato Casserole with Spring Veggies
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb of your favorite sausage, sliced
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage slices until nicely browned. Remove them and set aside.
Cook Potatoes and Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they start to soften. Add a bit more oil if needed.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the cooked potatoes, onion, garlic, and browned sausage to your prepared baking dish. Toss in the asparagus pieces.
Evenly pour the broth over the mixture, then season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before sprinkling with fresh parsley. Serve warm and relish the rich and comforting flavors.
Variations & Tips:
Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative to cater to vegetarian preferences.
Veggie Swaps: Not into asparagus? Try using sliced carrots, bell peppers, or fresh spinach.
Creamier Casserole: Add a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the potato mixture before baking for extra richness.
Leftover Magic: This casserole is just as delicious the next day—perfect for a hearty breakfast or quick lunch.
Remember: Cooking is about enjoyment and sharing love, so don’t stress over making it perfect. It’s all about the smiles around the table!
Wrap yourself in the comfort of this delightful Sausage and Potato Casserole with Spring Veggies, a dish that’s sure to become a cherished addition to your family meals. Enjoy crafting it as much as you enjoy eating it!