Introduction:
Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together savory sausage, tender green beans, and creamy potatoes in a flavorful one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this casserole is a satisfying and delicious way to enjoy a complete meal with minimal effort. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and starch, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
While the exact origin of Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is unclear, casseroles have long been a staple of home cooking in many cultures. Combining ingredients like sausage, green beans, and potatoes into a single dish makes for a convenient and economical way to feed a family. Casseroles are often associated with comfort food and homey gatherings, making them a beloved part of culinary traditions around the world.
Ingredients Quantity:
- Sausage (such as Italian sausage or smoked sausage), sliced: 1 pound (about 450g)
- Potatoes, diced: 4 cups (about 4 medium potatoes)
- Green beans, trimmed and halved: 2 cups
- Onion, chopped: 1 medium
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Chicken broth: 1 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella): 1 cup
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Olive oil: for cooking
Optional Additions:
- Red bell pepper, diced, for added color and flavor
- Mushrooms, sliced, for extra heartiness
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), for additional seasoning
- Parmesan cheese, grated, for a cheesy crust on top
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Slice the sausage into rounds, dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, trim and halve the green beans, and chop the onion and garlic.
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes and green beans to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the cooked sausage and vegetables to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out into an even layer.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth and heavy cream. Pour the mixture over the sausage and vegetables in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot as a satisfying and delicious main dish.
Tips for Success:
- Choose your favorite type of sausage for this casserole, such as Italian sausage for a spicier flavor or smoked sausage for a smokier taste.
- Feel free to use other vegetables you have on hand or prefer, such as carrots, broccoli, or peas.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking until the cheese is golden brown.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures in one delicious meal. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the convenience and versatility of this hearty dish, and customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own signature recipe!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 kcal
- Total Fat: Around 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 6-8 grams
- Cholesterol: About 40-60 milligrams
- Sodium: Around 500-700 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-35 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Roughly 3-5 grams
- Sugars: About 3-5 grams
- Protein: Roughly 15-20 grams
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as specific ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. Adjustments can be made based on your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your casserole!
