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

Scale

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