This sausage and sweet potato casserole is a warm and filling dish that combines savory sausage with sweet, creamy potatoes. It’s perfect for cozy dinners!
It’s like a big hug on a plate! I love how easy it is to make—just mix everything together and bake. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with regular potatoes, but keep in mind they won’t be as sweet.
Sausage: I love using pork sausage for extra flavor, but chicken or turkey sausage works well for a lighter option. You could even use vegetarian sausage if you’re looking for a meatless dish!
Onion: Yellow onions are great for their balanced flavor. If you’d like a milder taste, go for shallots or even green onions in a pinch.
Pecans: These add a nice crunch! If you want a nut-free casserole, you can leave them out or replace them with sunflower seeds.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Tender?
The key to perfectly tender sweet potatoes lies in the cutting size and cooking time. Always cut your sweet potatoes into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Spread your sweet potatoes and sausage mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Cover with foil initially to trap steam and help cook through.
- Finish without cover for a bit of browning and crispiness.
Your casserole will come out warm and comforting every time! Enjoy this satisfying meal anytime you’re looking for something delicious.
Sausage And Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb sausage links, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds (use your preferred sausage: pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 large onion, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pecans (optional), roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35 to 40 minutes to cook, which totals around 50 minutes. It’s a quick way to put together a delicious meal for your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential to ensure your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes, sliced sausage, and onion chunks together. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until the sweet potatoes and sausage are well coated with the seasonings.
3. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixed ingredients into it. Spread everything out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
4. Add Pecans (if using):
If you like the extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to help steam the sweet potatoes and ensure they become tender. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
6. Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s ready, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to cool slightly. This will make it easier to serve.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the casserole warm, and if you want, pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is sure to be a hit with its blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors!
Enjoy this hearty, comforting casserole bursting with the sweetness of sweet potatoes balanced by savory sausage and aromatic herbs!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Simply follow the instructions up to baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Sausage?
Yes! If using pre-cooked sausage, reduce the baking time slightly since you just need to heat it through and allow the flavors to meld with the sweet potatoes.
