Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you in search of a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that combines the wholesome flavors of sausage, green beans, and potatoes? Look no further! This Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of savory smoked sausage, tender green beans, and buttery potatoes all baked to perfection. The ingredients meld together, creating an irresistible dish that will have your family coming back for seconds. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through this recipe, with tips on variations, substitutions, and presentation ideas to take your casserole to the next level. Let’s get cooking!

What is a Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole?

A Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is a simple yet flavorful one-pan dish made with layers of juicy smoked sausage, crisp-tender green beans, and creamy potatoes. These ingredients are roasted together with garlic, onions, olive oil, and seasonings to form a meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck party favorite, this casserole offers a balance of protein, vegetables, and starch, making it a complete meal on its own.

Now, let's dive into the ingredients you’ll need to get started with this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients List for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this savory casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds baby creamer potatoes, washed and halved: Baby creamer potatoes offer a tender and buttery texture once cooked, making them a great choice for casseroles.
• 12 ounces fresh green beans, washed and ends snapped off: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch and pop of color to the dish.
• 14 ounces smoked sausage, cut thin on the bias: The smoked sausage is the star of the dish, bringing a smoky, rich flavor that complements the potatoes and green beans perfectly.

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 4 whole garlic cloves, skin removed and sliced thin: Garlic adds a layer of aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
• ½ yellow onion, sliced thin: Onions provide a sweet and savory background, adding complexity to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps everything roast beautifully, giving the potatoes and green beans a crispy edge while keeping them moist.
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Kosher salt helps to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a touch of heat and balances the richness of the sausage.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole to fit your dietary preferences or what you have in the fridge? Here are some creative substitutions and variations you can try:

• Sausage Alternatives: If you prefer a different type of protein, you can swap the smoked sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Potato Variations: Instead of baby creamer potatoes, you can use Yukon gold potatoes, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter twist. Just be sure to cut them into similarly sized pieces for even cooking.
• Green Bean Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of green beans, try substituting them with asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a different veggie profile.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the mix. These extra vegetables will give the casserole more color and flavor complexity.
• Spices and Herbs: For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley can also elevate the dish with their fragrant aromas.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your casserole roasts evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Start by washing and halving the baby creamer potatoes. If you’re using larger potatoes, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Trim the green beans: Snap off the ends of the green beans, then wash them thoroughly. Add the green beans to the bowl with the potatoes.
4. Slice the sausage: Cut the smoked sausage on the bias into thin slices. This creates more surface area for browning and allows the sausage to release its flavors into the vegetables. Add the sausage slices to the bowl.
5. Add the aromatics: Thinly slice the garlic cloves and yellow onion, then add them to the bowl with the potatoes, green beans, and sausage.
6. Season the mixture: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the ingredients in the bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables and sausage are well-coated in the olive oil and seasonings.
7. Arrange in a baking dish: Transfer the seasoned mixture into a large baking dish or casserole dish. Spread everything out in an even layer to ensure even cooking.
8. Roast the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is crispy on the edges. Be sure to stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
9. Check for doneness: Test the potatoes by inserting a fork into the thickest pieces. If they are tender and the sausage is golden brown, the casserole is ready to come out of the oven.

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

Here’s a quick recap of the essential steps for making the perfect Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Prepare your ingredients: wash and cut the potatoes, snap the green beans, and slice the sausage, garlic, and onion.
3. Toss everything with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange in a casserole dish.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through for even browning.
6. Check for doneness by testing the potatoes with a fork.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple casserole recipe like this can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not cutting the potatoes evenly: If your potato pieces are too large, they may not cook through in time. Make sure all the potato halves are roughly the same size.
• Overcrowding the pan: If the ingredients are too tightly packed, they may steam instead of roast. Spread everything out in an even layer so that the edges get crispy.
• Forgetting to stir halfway through: Stirring the casserole halfway through ensures that everything cooks evenly and prevents burning on one side.
• Using too little oil: Olive oil helps the vegetables and sausage crisp up in the oven. Be sure to use enough to coat everything lightly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a big difference when serving a casserole, especially if you’re entertaining guests. Here are some simple tips to serve and present your Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole in style:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add a pop of color and a burst of flavor right before serving.
• Serve in individual ramekins: If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a personalized touch.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon juice can bring out the flavors and balance the richness of the sausage.

How to Serve Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish, but you can also pair it with a light side to round out the meal. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread or a baguette to soak up any flavorful juices from the casserole.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Rice or quinoa: If you want to bulk up the meal, serve the casserole alongside a side of rice or quinoa.

Presentation Ideas for Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole

For a more elegant presentation, consider these ideas:

• Layered Look: When serving the casserole, try layering the sausage, potatoes, and green beans in a decorative pattern in a serving dish.
• Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the casserole directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic and cozy presentation.

Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use parchment paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Make it a one-pan meal: If you have a large enough skillet or sheet pan, cook everything on a single pan for even less cleanup.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. However, the texture of the green beans may change slightly after freezing.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, but keep in mind that frozen green beans might release more water, which can make the casserole a bit more liquidy. Be sure to thaw and drain them first.

Conclusion

This Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can create a meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste and dietary preferences with a variety of substitutions and add-ins. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow this guide, and enjoy a delicious casserole that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Print