If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, the Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is your answer. This dish combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all made in one pot in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this casserole will surely be a hit.
What Makes Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole Special?
The beauty of this Instant Pot recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a comforting casserole that’s packed with flavor. The combination of sausage, potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce gives the dish a rich and satisfying texture. Using the Instant Pot ensures that everything cooks evenly and quickly, while locking in all those delicious flavors.
This recipe is not only delicious but also customizable. You can use different types of sausage or add extra vegetables to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal!
Ingredients for the Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Potatoes: Fresh, diced potatoes form the base of the casserole, giving it a hearty and filling texture.
- Kielbasa Sausage: This smoked sausage adds a rich, savory flavor. You can substitute it with any other type of sausage you prefer.
- Onion: Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives the casserole a creamy, cheesy texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.
- Chicken Stock: Adds moisture and a savory base for the sauce.
- Milk and Heavy Cream: These ingredients create a rich, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste.
How to Make Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
Making Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is incredibly easy. All you need is about 10 minutes of prep time, and the Instant Pot takes care of the rest. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this comforting dish:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot. Dice the onion and cut the kielbasa sausage into small pieces. Mince the garlic if you’re using it.
2. Sauté the Sausage and Onion (Optional)
While not necessary, sautéing the sausage and onion in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking enhances the flavors of the dish. Turn on the Sauté mode and add a bit of oil. Once the pot is hot, add the onion and sausage, cooking for a few minutes until the onion is softened and the sausage starts to brown. This step adds depth and richness to the flavor.
3. Add the Potatoes and Liquids
Once the sausage and onion are sautéed, add the diced potatoes, chicken stock, milk, and heavy cream to the Instant Pot. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
4. Pressure Cook the Casserole
Close the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to Sealing. Select the Stew or Manual setting and cook for 8-10 minutes at high pressure. The exact time will depend on the size of your potato chunks. If you want softer potatoes, opt for the longer cooking time.
5. Quick Release and Add Cheese
Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the Quick Release method. Open the lid and stir the casserole. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing it until it melts and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Instant Pot sausage and potato casserole immediately. For a crispy top, you can transfer the casserole to a baking dish and broil it in the oven for 2 minutes. This step is optional but gives the casserole a beautiful golden finish. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
- Sauté for Extra Flavor: Sautéing the sausage and onions adds an extra layer of flavor to the casserole. Don’t skip this step unless you’re in a real rush.
- Adjust the Cooking Time: If you prefer softer potatoes, increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Keep in mind that overcooking can make the potatoes too mushy, so monitor the timing carefully.
- Use Different Sausages: While kielbasa sausage is a great choice, you can easily substitute it with Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: For a heartier dish, add carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the potatoes and sausage.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor of the sauce. Make sure to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the casserole from sticking to the pan. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir the casserole well before serving.
To store the casserole for a longer period, freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Why You Should Try Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
1. Time-Saving Convenience
The Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is the perfect solution for busy families or anyone who wants a delicious meal with minimal effort. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time, allowing you to prepare a hearty dish in just 25 minutes. This one-pot meal is especially ideal for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor.
2. Versatility and Customization
One of the best aspects of this casserole is its versatility. While the base ingredients of sausage, potatoes, and cheese are comforting and delicious, the recipe can be easily customized to your preferences. You can swap out the type of sausage, change the vegetables, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. This makes the recipe a go-to meal for all occasions, from family dinners to gatherings with friends.
You can also easily make this dish lighter by swapping the heavy cream for half-and-half or reducing the cheese. If you’re looking for a more nutritious option, add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.
3. One-Pot Meal for Easy Cleanup
Cooking in the Instant Pot means you’re left with fewer dishes to clean up afterward. Everything from the potatoes and sausage to the creamy sauce is cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This is especially appealing when you’re preparing meals for a busy family, as it minimizes the mess in the kitchen.\
Nutritional Information for Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
This Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole is a hearty and filling dish, but it’s important to know its nutritional breakdown so you can enjoy it without worry. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition per serving:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 890mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 12% of the DV
- Calcium: 20% of the DV
- Iron: 15% of the DV
This dish offers a nice balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a fulfilling option for dinner. While it’s rich and creamy, the potatoes and sausage offer a satisfying combination of textures that will keep you full and satisfied.
Customization Ideas for Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
1. Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian-friendly version, skip the sausage and opt for plant-based sausage or beans (such as cannellini beans or chickpeas) as a protein source. Add in vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also replace the cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
2. Spicy Kick
If you prefer a bit of heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a small diced jalapeño to the mix. You can also choose a spicy sausage (such as spicy Italian sausage) for added flavor.
3. Make it Lighter
To lighten up the casserole, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk, and use reduced-fat cheese. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a more flavorful, lower-fat option like parmesan.
FAQs On Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole
1. How do you cook sausage casserole in Instant Pot with potatoes?
To cook sausage casserole in the Instant Pot with potatoes, first sauté diced onions and sausage in the Instant Pot. Add diced potatoes, chicken stock, milk, heavy cream, and seasonings, then stir well. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and cook on Stew or Manual mode for 8-10 minutes. After cooking, quickly release the pressure, stir in cheese, and your casserole is ready to serve!
2. How to cook sausages in an Instant Pot?
To cook sausages in an Instant Pot, you can use the Sauté function to brown the sausages slightly before cooking. Add a little oil, and sauté the sausages for about 5 minutes until they have a golden color. Then, add a small amount of water or broth, seal the lid, and cook on Manual or Pressure Cook mode for 5-6 minutes. For fully cooked sausages, a 3-4 minute cook time will be enough. Quick release the pressure after cooking.
3. How long does it take for potatoes to soften in an Instant Pot?
Potatoes generally take about 8-10 minutes to soften in an Instant Pot when cooked on high pressure. The cook time will vary depending on the size of the potato cubes or chunks. For smaller pieces, 8 minutes should be sufficient. Larger chunks or whole potatoes may require up to 10 minutes. Always check with a fork for desired tenderness.
4. Can I use frozen potatoes in Instant Pot sausage casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen potatoes in Instant Pot sausage casserole, but be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time. If you use frozen potatoes, add an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time, and make sure there is enough liquid in the Instant Pot to prevent the burn notice.
5. What kind of sausage works best for Instant Pot sausage and potato casserole?
For the best flavor and texture in Instant Pot sausage and potato casserole, use smoked sausages like kielbasa or bratwurst. Italian sausage (mild or spicy) also works well for a flavorful twist. You can substitute with chicken sausage or vegetarian sausage if you prefer a lighter or meatless option.
Instant Pot Sausage and Potato Casserole Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) fresh diced potatoes
- 1 lb (450g) kielbasa sausage, cut into small pieces (or any sausage of choice)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups (500ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup (125ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes. Dice the onion and sausage, and mince the garlic if using.
- Sauté (Optional): Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat a bit of oil. Add the onion and sausage, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion softens and the sausage begins to brown.
- Add Potatoes and Liquids: Add the diced potatoes, chicken stock, milk, heavy cream, and minced garlic to the Instant Pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to Stew or Manual mode. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, depending on your potato chunk size.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, quickly release the pressure. Open the lid and stir the casserole.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately. For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2 minutes.
Notes:
- Sautéing the sausage and onions enhances the flavor, but it’s optional if you’re short on time.
- Frozen potatoes can be used, but increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a cheese blend.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 890mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 12% of the DV
- Calcium: 20% of the DV
- Iron: 15% of the DV
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Method: Pressure Cooking (Instant Pot)
Cuisine: American
