✔ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2️⃣ Cook the Sausage & Onions
✔ In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
✔ Add sliced sausage & onions, and sauté until browned (4-5 minutes).
✔ Stir in garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
✔ Remove from heat and set aside.
✅ Browning the sausage adds extra flavor!
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
✔ In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
✔ Whisk in flour, cooking for 1 minute until lightly golden.
✔ Slowly add milk & cream, whisking until smooth.
✔ Stir in mustard powder & thyme.
✔ Cook until thickened (about 3 minutes), then remove from heat.
✅ This creamy sauce brings everything together!
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
✔ Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish.
✔ Add half of the sausage mixture and 1 cup shredded cheese.
✔ Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and cheese.
✔ Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top.
✅ For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or bacon on top!
5️⃣ Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
✔ Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
✔ Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
✔ Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
✅ The cheese should be melted and bubbly!
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for extra flavor.
✔ Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal!
✅ Perfect for leftovers—flavors get even better the next day!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning. 🌶️
🔹 Veggie Boost – Mix in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. 🥦
🔹 Meat Swap – Use chicken sausage or ground beef instead. 🍗
🔹 Low-Carb Option – Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini. 🥒
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until warm.
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.
✅ Perfect for meal prep & make-ahead dinners!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Food!
This Sausage and Potato Casserole is cheesy, creamy, and packed with smoky flavors—a guaranteed family favorite! Whether for dinner, brunch, or a potluck, this dish is comfort food at its best.
