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Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

Indulge in Comfort: Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole

 

Prepare to embark on a journey of comfort and flavor with our Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying casserole combines tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and melted cheese for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy. Join us as we dive into the world of comfort food and discover the joy of simple, delicious meals.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices, drained, juice reserved
  • 1 box of yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 12 maraschino cherries, cut in half

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Layer Pineapple Slices: Arrange the drained pineapple slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and reserved pineapple juice. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  4. Pour Batter Over Pineapple: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Add Melted Butter and Brown Sugar: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake batter. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
  6. Arrange Cherries: Place the halved maraschino cherries on top of the brown sugar, spacing them evenly apart.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Cheese Variation: For an extra cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the cake batter for a savory flavor boost.
  • Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a warm and aromatic touch.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle, you can modify this recipe to fit your dietary needs.

  • Almond Flour Substitute: Replace the yellow cake mix with almond flour or a keto-friendly baking mix to reduce the carb content of the casserole.
  • Sugar Substitute: Use a sugar substitute such as erythritol or stevia in place of the brown sugar to reduce the carb count.
  • Fresh Fruit Option: Instead of pineapple and cherries, you can use fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries for a lower-carb topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
    • Yes, you can use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned. Just be sure to remove the core and slice the pineapple into rings before arranging them in the baking dish.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until needed.
  3. Can I freeze leftovers?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then slice it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
  4. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
    • Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of this casserole by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix or by substituting almond flour for the cake mix.

 

In conclusion, Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of tender pineapple, savory smoked sausage, and sweet cherries, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a decadent side dish, this casserole is sure to please. So gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of Cheese Potato & Smoked Sausage Casserole.