Thinly sliced potatoes layered with smoky kielbasa, onions, and cheddar, all baked in a creamy, seasoned sauce — the ultimate cozy bake for family dinners.
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15–20 minutes
Dietary Badges: Contains Dairy, Contains Gluten, Contains Meat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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Potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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Kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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Onion, minced
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Cheddar cheese, shredded
Creamy Sauce
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Sour cream
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Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
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Melted butter
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Prep Oven & Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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First Layer: Arrange half the potatoes in an even layer in the prepared dish. Top with half the kielbasa, half the onion, half the sauce, and 1 cup cheddar.
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Second Layer: Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, kielbasa, onion, sauce, and cheddar.
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Bake Covered: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
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Bake Uncovered: Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender.
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Finish & Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes:
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For a smokier flavor, use smoked kielbasa.
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Bell peppers or mushrooms can be added between layers for extra flavor.
Brief Introduction
This hearty casserole layers tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and plenty of cheese under a creamy, seasoned sauce. It’s easy to assemble, bakes to perfection, and works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for potlucks.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Sauce Prep
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Creamy Blend: Combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, butter, and seasonings for a rich, flavorful sauce.
Layering the Casserole
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Base Layers: Half the potatoes, half the kielbasa, half the onion, sauce, and cheese.
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Repeat: Finish with the remaining ingredients for a full, even bake.
Baking & Finishing
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Cover & Bake: Keeps moisture in for tender potatoes.
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Uncover & Brown: Melts and browns the cheese for that perfect crust.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips
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Kielbasa: Can substitute with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for a spicy twist.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; mozzarella or Colby Jack can be used for milder taste.
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Cream of Chicken Soup: Cream of mushroom or celery works for different flavor profiles.
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Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold are best for tenderness and flavor.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
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Veggie Boost: Add layers of spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
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Serving Ideas: Pair with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead Information
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating or baking.
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Reheating: Warm in oven at 325°F covered with foil until heated through.
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Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead; refrigerate until ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, 8 servings)
Calories: ~410 kcal | Carbs: 28g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 25g | Sodium: 1020mg | Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Q: Can I use precooked potatoes?
A: Yes — reduce covered baking time by about 15 minutes.
Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cream soup or make your own roux-based sauce with GF flour.
Q: Can I assemble and freeze before baking?
A: Absolutely — just thaw overnight before baking.
Personal Story
This casserole became a family favorite after I made it for a snowy weekend dinner. The smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and tender potatoes made it one of those “stick-to-your-ribs” meals that everyone asks for again.
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