This Sausage and Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, tasty dish that combines hearty sausage with sweet potatoes for a perfect match! It’s simple to make and fills your home with a cozy aroma.
I love how the sweetness of the potatoes pairs with the savory sausage. Plus, it’s great for leftovers—if there’s any left, that is! You’ll want to enjoy every last bite! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, bringing a natural sweetness. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, but the flavor will vary.
Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its flavorful kick. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken sausage. For a meat-free option, try using plant-based sausage.
Red Onion: The red onion adds a touch of sweetness and color. If you don’t have red onion, yellow or white onion can work as substitutes, but they will have a sharper flavor.
Cheese: I suggest using mozzarella for that gooey texture. If mozzarella isn’t available, cheddar or a mix of cheeses can be great alternatives. Just make sure they melt well!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Sweet Potatoes?
Cooking sweet potatoes to perfection is key for this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly before adding the casserole to ensure even cooking.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes to promote uniform cooking. Aim for about 1-inch pieces.
- Since sweet potatoes can vary in size, check for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy.
Remember to toss them in oil and seasonings before baking to enhance their flavor. With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in your casserole!
How to Make Sausage and Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed and broken into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or mild cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you can expect around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to whip up a warm meal for the family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, peel and cube your sweet potatoes, and cut the red onion into wedges.
2. Season the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes and red onion wedges together with olive oil, dried oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is nicely coated!
3. Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once it’s nice and golden, remove it from heat.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In the same bowl you used for the veggies, add the cooked sausage to the sweet potato and onion mixture. Gently toss everything together, mixing well to combine all those delicious flavors.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that gooey goodness!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to be tender and the cheese to be melted and slightly golden. Your home will start smelling incredible!
7. Let It Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help everything settle together. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely finishing touch!
Now, dig in and enjoy your comforting, delicious sausage and sweet potato casserole! It’s perfect for any meal or a cozy family dinner.
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds great flavor, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a meat-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the sausage type.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance! Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to bulk up the dish with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so cut vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Enjoy experimenting!