Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe

If you crave hearty comfort food but need dinner on the table fast, this Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is your answer. Imagine fork-tender potatoes, juicy slices of kielbasa, and gooey cheddar cheese, all cozied up together in one crave-worthy casserole — and the best part? You can have it bubbling hot in just about 30 minutes!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole uses basic, no-fuss ingredients that work together to create big-time flavors. Each one plays a role in texture, richness, or those crave-worthy golden cheese bites!

• Fresh diced potatoes: Use a waxy variety (like Yukon Gold) for the dreamiest texture — they hold up and turn perfectly tender, never mushy.
• Kielbasa sausage: This smoked sausage brings a deep savoriness and just the right amount of salty, meaty bite.
• Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that melts right into the dish as it cooks.
• Garlic cloves (optional): A little fresh garlic goes a long way in boosting the casserole’s flavor profile!
• Shredded cheddar cheese: The magical ingredient that gives you those irresistible cheesy strings and gooey topping.
• Chicken or vegetable stock: Adds moisture and savory depth, tying all the components together.
• Milk: Helps to create a rich, luscious sauce without being heavy.
• Heavy whipping cream: Just a splash turns the whole casserole silky and decadent.
• Unsalted butter: Dotted in for extra richness and flavor.
• Italian seasoning (optional): For herby complexity with minimal effort.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Just a pinch for subtle warmth, or leave out if you’re spice-shy.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, to bring it all to life!

Variations

One of the most wonderful things about Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is how endlessly adaptable it is. Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors, add-ins, or swaps to make it your own — there are no casserole rules here!

• Switch up your sausage: Try smoked turkey sausage, spicy andouille, or even chorizo for a flavor twist.
• Add veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, corn, or frozen peas for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute the cheese and cream with non-dairy alternatives for a lactose-free casserole that still brings all the comfort.
• Lighten it up: Use half the cheese or replace half the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter spin.

How to Make Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole

Step 1: Layer Your Base

Start by adding your diced potatoes, chopped kielbasa, diced onion, and little pockets of butter right into the Instant Pot insert. Spreading everything evenly ensures every bite is loaded with flavor and nothing sticks as it cooks.

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl or a large measuring cup, whisk together the stock, milk, cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, plus salt and pepper to taste. Pour this creamy goodness all over the potatoes and sausage, making sure everything gets a nice, even bath.

Step 3: Top with Cheese and Cook

Time for the cheese! Scatter your shredded cheddar over the top, then pop on the lid, set your Instant Pot to the “Stew” or “Manual” setting, and cook for 8–10 minutes. It’s done when the potatoes are fork-tender and everything smells completely irresistible. Be cautious not to overcook — you want the potatoes just right, not mushy!

Step 4: (Optional) Crisp Under the Broiler

If you like a bubbly, golden brown top (and who doesn’t, honestly?), carefully transfer everything to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes. That quick blast of heat will give you those delicious cheesy edges that make this casserole over-the-top delicious.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Dish up your Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole straight onto plates while it’s piping hot. Each spoonful is cozy, cheesy, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Dig in!

How to Serve Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens up each serving and adds a hint of color. For even more indulgence, a sprinkle of extra cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top is absolutely dreamy!

Side Dishes

This casserole is definitely a meal on its own, but a crisp green salad or steam-sautéed green beans make it sing! For a little extra comfort, serve with warm, crusty bread to mop up every drop of that luscious cheese sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style, bring the casserole dish straight to the table for a homey, abundant vibe. Or, serve individual portions in ramekins and garnish with fresh herbs. If you’re hosting brunch, pair small servings with poached eggs and a drizzle of hot sauce for a show-stopping plate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and actually tastes even better the next day!

Freezing

To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings or whole-family portions and wrap well. Freeze for up to 2 months — the texture will be slightly softer after thawing, but the flavors remain absolutely comforting.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or stock to bring back the creaminess. If you crave that signature cheesy crust, a minute or two under the broiler works wonders!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again whenever you need something simple, filling, and deeply satisfying. Give it a try — I have a feeling it’ll become a new favorite at your table, too!

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