This Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate easy comfort meal, packed with hearty ingredients that come together in one pan. It’s a dump meal, meaning you can simply “dump” everything into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. The combination of cheddar cheese, kielbasa, and crispy hashbrowns makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a filling brunch option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: Minimal prep work, just dump and bake.
Comforting: Hearty and cheesy, perfect for chilly evenings.
Customizable: Add or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
One-pan wonder: Clean-up is a breeze with just one dish to wash.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

Frozen hashbrowns: The base of the casserole, crispy and golden after baking.
Kielbasa sausage: A smoky and savory meat that complements the cheesy flavors.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A must-have for that melty, gooey cheesy texture.
Cream of mushroom soup: Adds richness and moisture to the casserole.
Sour cream: Enhances the creaminess and provides a tangy flavor.
Onion powder: For an extra layer of savory flavor.
Garlic powder: A touch of garlic enhances the overall taste.
Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing the flavors.
Olive oil: A light drizzle to help the ingredients meld together.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, kielbasa, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream.
Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Layer and Add Cheese

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Servings: 8
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 680mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 14g

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A1: Yes, you can use any cooked sausage or even ground sausage as a substitute for kielbasa.

Q2: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hashbrowns?
A2: Fresh potatoes can be used, but they will need to be pre-cooked or shredded to achieve a similar texture to hashbrowns.

Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
A4: Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q5: What can I add to the casserole for extra flavor?
A5: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q6: Can I make this dish spicy?
A6: Yes, add some diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to spice things up.

Q7: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A7: Yes, feel free to swap cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

Q8: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A8: Yes, ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that the sausage is gluten-free.

Q9: How long will leftovers last?
A9: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Q10: Can I add more cheese on top?
A10: Absolutely! Adding more cheese on top before baking will give you an extra cheesy crust.

This Cheesy Kielbasa Hashbrown Casserole is a perfect example of a comfort food dish that’s simple to prepare and packs a lot of flavors. Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner – it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!