Loaded Baked Potato Skillet Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Loaded Baked Potato Skillet Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining creamy mashed potatoes, smoky sausage, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a hearty one-pan meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 10-12 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 lbs), washed and quartered
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups milk (may need more for desired consistency)
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4-5 tablespoons chopped scallions (reserve 1 tablespoon for topping)
- 16 oz grated cheese (reserve 4 oz for topping)
- 4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz grated Colby Jack cheese
- 4 oz grated Pepper Jack cheese
- 2 packages smoked sausage (about 2 lbs), diced into bite-sized pieces
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, then drain well and return them to the pot.
- Step 3: Add 12 ounces of the grated cheese and 4 tablespoons of chopped scallions to the potatoes. Mash until smooth. Taste and season with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
- Step 4: Stir in the heavy whipping cream, milk, butter, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Cover the pot with a lid until the butter melts and the mixture is creamy.
- Step 5: While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large, deep skillet (about 12 inches wide, 3 inches deep) over medium heat. Brown the diced smoked sausage until cooked through and slightly crisp.
- Step 6: Combine the mashed potatoes with the browned sausage in the skillet, spreading the mixture out evenly.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the reserved scallions and remaining 4 ounces of grated cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 8: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and the sides are bubbly.
- Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, add more milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Try swapping smoked sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different smoky flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of the cheese blend for a classic taste.
- Garnish with sour cream or extra chopped scallions for added freshness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover the skillet with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, russet potatoes work well for mashing, though Yukon Golds provide a naturally creamier texture. Adjust cooking times as needed since russets may take a bit longer to become tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole as directed up to assembling in the skillet, then cover and refrigerate. When ready, bake for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
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Loaded Baked Potato Skillet Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Description
This Loaded Baked Potato Skillet Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring creamy mashed Yukon Gold potatoes mixed with smoky browned sausage and a blend of melted cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for feeding a crowd, it combines the classic flavors of loaded baked potatoes in a convenient one-pan skillet casserole.
Ingredients
Potatoes & Dairy
- 10–12 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and quartered (approx. 2 lbs)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups milk (may need more for desired consistency)
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4–5 tablespoons chopped scallions (reserve 1 tablespoon for topping)
Cheeses
- 16 oz grated cheese total (reserve 4 oz for topping):
- 8 oz grated Colby Jack
- 4 oz grated Parmesan
- 4 oz grated Pepper Jack
Meat
- 2 packages smoked sausage, approx. 2 lbs, diced into bite-sized pieces
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the quartered Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot and cover completely with water. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add 12 oz of the grated cheese along with 4 tablespoons of chopped scallions. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cream and Butter: Stir in the heavy whipping cream, milk, butter, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Cover the pot with a lid to allow the butter to melt completely into the mash.
- Brown Sausage: While potatoes are boiling, heat a large, deep skillet (about 12″ x 3″) over medium-high heat. Add the diced smoked sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Potatoes and Sausage: Mix the mashed potato mixture thoroughly into the browned smoked sausage in the skillet, ensuring even distribution.
- Top and Bake: Spread the combined mixture evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle the remaining 4 oz cheese and reserved 1 tablespoon scallions over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Serve hot, dividing into 10-12 portions. Enjoy this rich and flavorful loaded baked potato casserole!
Notes
- You can adjust the milk quantity to reach your preferred mashed potato consistency.
- For a spicier kick, consider using spicy sausage or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- The dish can be prepared ahead by mixing and assembling, then refrigerated until ready to bake.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the smoked sausage and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: loaded baked potato casserole, smoked sausage casserole, cheesy potato skillet, comfort food, party casserole, Yukon Gold potatoes
