Whenever I make this Sausage, Green Bean & Potato Casserole, I’m taken back to a blustery autumn evening, the kind that nips at your nose and toes, urging you indoors. There I was, hosting a cozy gathering of friends, when my culinary skeptics, led by a dear friend who considers casseroles to be passé, were rendered utterly speechless by this hearty dish. By the time we reached the bottom of the casserole dish, plans were already being made for a repeat performance at our next gathering.
The magic of this casserole is in its homely simplicity, transforming basic ingredients into a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and warming. It’s a fantastic way to bring everyone to the table, filled with laughter and good stories, especially on those evenings when the chilly breeze makes you crave something hearty.
Ingredients:
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 pound green beans, trimmed
1.5 pounds potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
Equipment Needed:
Large mixing bowl
Baking dish
Chopping board and knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Mixing spoon
Directions:
Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is perfect for achieving that beautiful roast on your potatoes and sausage.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the smoked sausage, green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper for that lovely depth of flavor.
Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over your mixture and toss everything until well-coated. This not only helps the ingredients cook evenly but also enhances the roasting process.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer everything to your baking dish. Pour the chicken broth over the assembled ingredients, which will help keep everything moist and tender as it bakes.
Baking Time: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. Give it a stir halfway through to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets nicely browned.
Ready to Serve: Once the potatoes are fork-tender and the sausage is nicely caramelized, remove from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
Pro Tips:
Choosing Your Sausage: A good quality smoked sausage is key for that deep, rich flavor in the casserole.
Adding a Personal Twist: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or swap the green beans for broccoli for a different flavor profile.
Prep in Advance: This dish can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making your meal planning a breeze.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, turkey sausage or even chunks of chicken breast make great alternatives.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the sausage with a hearty plant-based alternative like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
What if I want to make it spicier?
Add some chili flakes or diced jalapeño to the mix for an extra kick.
How should leftovers be stored?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they should be good for up to three days.
This dish not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation as the seasons shift from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors with your loved ones!
